Empowering Caregivers through Education: Chai Awarded the Winter 2025 Jean Griswold Foundation Scholarshipp

When caregivers change lives every day, it deserves to be celebrated. The Griswold Home Care for Oahu team is proud to share that Rachel Chai, one of its very own, has been awarded the Jean Griswold Foundation Winter 2025 Scholarship, a well-earned recognition for her extraordinary dedication to care and her commitment to continued education.

Rachel stands out not simply because she completes the tasks on a care plan, but because she elevates the entire experience of care. She builds meaningful relationships grounded in trust, compassion, and genuine human connection. One client’s spouse described her approach as “a passion and devotion to her clients”, words that perfectly capture the heart she brings to her work.

For Rachel, caregiving goes beyond preparing meals and ensuring safety. With one client, she takes time to curl her hair and paint her nails — small but powerful gestures that preserve dignity and celebrate beauty. It’s no surprise she has become a favorite. Rachel understands that exceptional care honors the whole person, not just their physical needs.

Her commitment extends beyond her scheduled shifts. During a recent tsunami scare, emergency sirens sounded statewide urging residents to evacuate. Although she was clear to leave, Rachel remained focused on her clients’ wellbeing. She ensured her client was safe, comfortable, and had a warm meal before heading home. She then checked on her other clients to confirm they were safe or evacuating with loved ones. In a high-stress, unpredictable situation, she demonstrated remarkable leadership, empathy, and initiative.

Rachel also supports her team behind the scenes. Aware of staffing challenges, she independently promotes caregiver recruitment efforts on social media, understanding that stronger staffing means better care for everyone. What makes her achievement even more inspiring is that she balances her commitment to service all while being a full-time single mother and pursuing a master’s degree.

The Jean Griswold Foundation was established to honor the legacy of Dr. Jean Griswold, a pioneer in the non-medical home care industry. The Foundation’s mission is to support caregivers through educational scholarships, empowering them to advance their training, expand their professional opportunities, and enhance the quality of care they provide. By investing in caregivers’ education, the Foundation strengthens not only individual careers but the caregiving profession as a whole.

Rachel is dependable, compassionate, and deeply committed to those she serves. We are incredibly proud to celebrate her scholarship award and grateful to have her as part of our care team.

We also extend heartfelt congratulations to all of the Winter 2025 Jean Griswold Foundation scholarship recipients. Your dedication to advancing your education while continuing to provide compassionate care inspires our entire community.To see all of this year’s remarkable winners recognized, we invite you to watch the full YouTube celebration video. Rachel’s featured moment begins at the 1:22 mark — be sure to tune in and celebrate alongside us.