Honouring a Lifetime of Care: Al and Jenny Jina Receive the Ed Helfrich Long-Service Excellence Award from BC Care Providers
February 9, 2026 | By Park Place Seniors Living |
This February, we’re proud to share an exciting milestone: Al and Jenny Jina, owners and operators of Park Place Seniors Living, have been named recipients of the Ed Helfrich Long-Service Excellence Award, presented by the BC Care Providers Association.
It’s a meaningful recognition that reflects decades of steady commitment to senior care, and a thoughtful approach to leadership that has helped shape care communities across British Columbia.
What the Ed Helfrich Long-Service Excellence Award Recognizes
The Ed Helfrich Long-Service Excellence Award is a category of the BC Care Awards that recognizes longstanding leadership in the seniors’ care sector. It honours individuals in our community who have made significant contributions, showing up and doing the work diligently for 15 years or more.
This is a province-wide recognition that reflects a type of leadership built through intention, experience, and a deep respect for seniors and the teams who care for them.
Honouring Al and Jenny’s Leadership and Impact
Those who have worked with Al and Jenny know their leadership is grounded and practical. They unwaveringly focus on doing what is best for residents, families, and care teams, guided by purpose rather than praise or self-recognition.
With a background in nursing, a master’s degree in Adult Education, and a Fellowship in Gerontology, Jenny has spent her entire career caring for seniors. Her early experience instilled the importance of giving seniors dignity and preventing institutionalization of care. This led her to work tirelessly to make Park Place feel like home for all residents. Because of her leadership, Park Place communities are known as warm, person-centred environments that help everyone feel welcome and comfortable to be themselves.
With commerce and law degrees from the University of Alberta, Al has created deep systemic change in seniors’ care. From serving on provincial committees to advising on legislation, his influence has strengthened the foundations of seniors’ care across Canada. Serving on multiple committees over his career, and his contributions have brought important insight to Park Place’s residences.
Over the years, sound decision-making and a clear understanding of what quality care looks like in the real world have shaped both Al and Jenny’s work. Their leadership provides a strong foundation for the entire organization to rely on, enabling us to move forward from a position of strength.
How Their Work Impacts Our Communities
Leadership matters most in the everyday details of care. It influences how communities operate over time, from care standards and staffing approaches to how decisions are made when it matters most.
Al and Jenny’s contributions have helped guide Park Place communities with a steady hand, reinforcing an approach to care that values attention, continuity, and respect. These principles determine how teams work together and provide care for residents.
For families with loved ones living in a retirement community, this kind of consistency helps create a deep sense of confidence and trust.
A Moment of Recognition
The award will be presented at the 12th annual BC Care Awards ceremony, held on February 25th, 2026 at the Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria, BC. Elected officials, as well as BCCPA member organizations and stakeholders will be in attendance, and the Minister of Health will present the awards.
While the evening itself is a celebration, the significance of the award extends well beyond a single event. It reflects the collective respect of peers across the sector, and the value placed on long-standing commitment to quality care.
Looking Ahead With Pride
We’re proud to celebrate this milestone with Al and Jenny, and we’re grateful for the years of care, leadership, and responsibility they’ve brought to senior living in British Columbia. Their recognition reminds us that the most meaningful contributions are often made quietly, through dedication and care.
