On November 22, 2016, two days before Thanksgiving, the VA Connecticut Healthcare System showed their gratitude, and the gratitude of their veteran patients and families to VetPride’s Valet Team in West Haven, CT by presenting the team with a Certificate of Kindness Award.
“So many of our hospice patient families tell us about the kindness of the valet parking team,” says Diane Grenier, visitor of the VA medical center, “these families are stressed and just trying to get through the day. I have heard from many wives how gracious the staff is, how they are greeted with respect and a smile.”
Ben Guzman, site manager of the 18-person valet team, was very proud to receive the award along with his staff. “Everyone was very appreciative,” says Mr. Guzman. “It’s nice to be recognized for the hard work we do.“
VetPride acquired the valet parking operation for the VA Connecticut Healthcare System in January 2012. Mr. Guzman joined the team that October, and was promoted to site manager in January 2013. “I always tell the guys we’re providing a service for veterans, how some of them have gone through some horrible things, and this is an opportunity for us to give back for what they have given to this country,” he says. Mr. Guzman also encourages the team to develop friendships with some of the veterans, to not just view them as customers.
This award is another example of the exemplary customer service that VetPride exhibits everyday. As a veteran owned and operated company, VetPride employees are instilled with the same values that make for a great serviceman. These values, as displayed by the New Haven valet team, include respect, integrity, and service.