Fair Oaks Health Care Center has been awarded the 2025 Bronze National Quality Award by the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL). This national recognition honors providers that demonstrate a commitment to improving the lives of residents through exceptional care and organizational excellence.
The application process has 3 stages and is based on the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program. Applicants are evaluated by trained experts against nationally recognized standards designed to help organizations achieve superior performance and improve outcomes for residents over time.
This prestigious honor reflects Fair Oak’s person-centered approach, a focus on dignity, and an ongoing dedication to improvement. “Our journey began with a shared commitment among our team to align our care practices with national standards of excellence,” said Noreen Zaio, Administrator at Fair Oaks. “The application process gave us a meaningful opportunity to evaluate what we do well and where we could grow.”
For Fair Oaks, the application process for the award became a springboard for deeper collaboration and accountability. “It validated our efforts and strengthened our team’s focus,” Zaio said. “We learned the power of data, communication, and shared purpose in advancing care.”
“What inspires us every day is the trust our residents and families place in us,” Zaio added. “This award is a reflection of that trust—and a reminder of our responsibility to continue delivering compassionate, high-quality care.” Fair Oaks isn't stopping here; they plan to pursue the Silver Award next, which requires providers to demonstrate measurable progress and performance improvement using systematic approaches.
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Fair Oaks Health Care Center in Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a non-profit 51-bed skilled nursing facility owned by Wisconsin Illinois Senior Housing Inc, a 501(c)(3) organization. Fair Oaks offers short-term rehab, skilled nursing, long-term care, hospice and respite. Learn more at www.FairOaksHealthCare.org.