Agenda | USAging Conference

Agenda | USAging Conference
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Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Supporting Caregivers
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Schedule Overview
Friday, July 17
Saturday, July 18
Sunday, July 19
Monday, July 20
Tuesday, July 21
Schedule Subject to Change
Friday, July 17
8:30 AM
12:00 PM
USAging Board of Directors Meeting
12:00 PM
5:00 PM
Registration and Information Desk Open
1:00 PM
5:00 PM
Pre-Conference Intensives
1:00 PM
5:00 PM
Pre-Conference Intensives
PC01) Boot Camp for New Directors
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Are you a new AAA director interested in learning more about navigating your role? This must-attend Boot Camp will give you access to veteran and newer AAA directors’ knowledge and advice! Hear about which issues you can’t afford to ignore, how to approach key relationships, where the Aging Network is headed and more. Several “rookie” directors will also share what they learned in the first few years on the job. Bring your questions and be ready to find other new directors to network with. The Boot Camp will be followed by a networking reception for attendees.
This content may also be valuable to newer senior staff at AAAs. While the focus is geared toward AAAs, Title VI directors are welcome to attend!
Presenters:
Amy Gotwals, Chief, Public Policy and External Affairs, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
In her role, Amy leads USAging's public policy, advocacy, communications, external relations and membership relations activities. Representing local aging agencies, Amy serves as the lead in outreach to Congress and the Administration to ensure that needed resources and support services are available to older Americans and their caregivers.
Rebecca Levine, Director, Membership Engagement, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Rebecca Levine joined USAging in July 2014 and currently serves as Senior Manager, Membership, and Senior Program Manager, engAGED: The National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults. Rebecca holds a Master of Social Work from George Mason University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh.
Sandy Markwood, Chief Executive Officer, USAging, Washington, DC
Dana Corwin, Director, Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services, Mayville, NY
[biography]
Dana Corwin, RN, has 35 years of geriatric nursing experience and 19 years with the Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services. Appointed Director in January 2025, she leads the agency’s mission to guide, connect and advocate for long-term supports that help older adults remain independent in the community.
Tom McConaghy, Director, Central Colorado Area Agency on Aging, Salida, CO
[biography]
Tom McConaghy is Director of the Central Colorado Area Agency on Aging serving four rural counties. His professional background includes being a former law enforcement officer, working for the local Department of Human Services with a vibrant youth service and participation on numerous boards of directors.
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Director of Aging Services, Allegheny County Department of Human Services Area Agency on Aging, Pittsburgh, PA
[biography]
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Ph.D., is Director of the Allegheny County DHS Area Agency on Aging. Since 2022, she has transformed services, reaching over 39,000 people annually. With extensive research and nonprofit leadership experience, she advances community-driven advocacy, earning recognition from USAging, The John A. Hartford Foundation, and Pittsburgh Business Times.
Timothy Womack, Aging Services Director, South Carolina Appalachian Council of Governments Area Agency on Aging, Greenville, SC
[biography]
Tim Womack is the Aging Services Director at the South Carolina Appalachian Council of Governments/Area Agency on Aging. Over the past 16 years, Tim served as president of the South Carolina Area Agencies on Aging for three terms and the president of the Southeastern Association of Area Agencies on Aging.
Laura Cepoi, Executive Director, Olympic Area Agency on Aging, Port Townsend, WA
[biography]
Laura Cepoi serves as Executive Director of the Olympic Area Agency on Aging, leading practical innovation in rural aging services across coastal Washington. Drawing on previous AAA leadership experience in urban California, Laura helps directors navigate geography, governance and scale to build responsive, sustainable aging and adult service systems.
Pam Curtis, CEO, Senior Resources of West Michigan, Muskegon, MI
[biography]
Pam Curtis is CEO of Senior Resources of West Michigan and USAging’s current Immediate Past President. Pam holds a degree in social work from Ferris State University where she was a 2019 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. She’s held a variety of positions within her agency over the past 36 years.
Duana Patton, CEO, Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc., Ontario, OH
[biography]
Duana Patton is the CEO of the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. and current President of USAging. Duana has over 35 years of experience in nonprofit and executive leadership. Duana is known for her work in board governance, customer service, housing development and strategic planning.
Marla Fronczak, CEO, AgeGuide Northeastern IL, Lombard, IL
[biography]
Marla Fronczak is the CEO of AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois. She has a Master of Science in Nonprofit Management. Marla is the President of the Illinois Association of Area Agencies on Aging (I4A) and a member of the Milken Institute Alliance to Improve Dementia Care.
Lisa Sheppard, CEO, Missoula Aging Services, Missoula, MT
[biography]
Lisa Sheppard has more than two decades of leadership experience in the aging and disability fields. Prior to becoming CEO of Missoula Aging Services in 2022, she served for nine years as the director of another AAA in Montana where she also oversaw the county’s public transportation service.
Saturday, July 18
7:30 AM
7:00 PM
Registration and Information Desk Open
8:30 AM
12:00 PM
Pre-Conference Intensives
8:30 AM
12:00 PM
Pre-Conference Intensives
PC02) Caregiving Summit: From Federal Initiatives to Local Innovations
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Following a networking breakfast, this pre-conference intensive features updates from ACL leadership on federal priorities and initiatives focused on the caregiving landscape, including the National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers. This session will also offer a deep dive into USAging’s latest efforts and AAA-led innovations. Through a series of expert panels and interactive discussions, participants will explore actionable strategies for enhancing caregiver outreach and navigation. The session will highlight successful models for building innovative partnerships and highlight options for how to effectively integrate volunteers to potentially broaden program impact. Whether your agency is focused on scaling an existing service or launching new supports, this intensive provides the tools, peer connections, and federal insights necessary to strengthen caregiving in your community.
Presenters:
Meredith Hanley, Program Director, Commit to Connect, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Meredith Hanley serves as a Program Director overseeing USAging’s work relation to social connection, caregiving services and supports and kinship care.
Kari Benson, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Kari Benson serves as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging for the Administration on Aging. Kari has spent her entire career in the aging network and holds degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota.
Cara Goldstein, Assistant Director, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Cara Goldstein serves as the Assistant Director of Caregiving Services and Supports for USAging. In this role, she works to strengthen the capacity of the Aging Network to develop and deliver innovative services that meet the needs of the nation’s caregivers.
Christy Boone, Director of Housing and Special Projects, Direction Home of Eastern Ohio, Youndstown, OH
[biography]
Christy Boone is the Director of Housing and Special Projects for Direction Home of Eastern Ohio.?She attended Ohio University and is a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator. Christy’s responsibilities include leading the Family Caregiver Support Program, efforts to develop affordable housing and age-friendly livable communities.
Jennifer Harbison, Caregiver Support Specialist, Colchester, VT
[biography]
Jennifer Harbison is a Caregiver Support Specialist at Age Well northwestern Vermont’s Area Agency on Aging Jennifer provides access assistance care planning support dementia education and respite funding to unpaid caregivers who are supporting someone at home Jennifer leads Powerful Tools for Caregivers courses and facilitates dementia caregiver support groups
Bryn Ceman, Caregiver Program Specialist, Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources Inc., Madison, WI
[biography]
Bryn Ceman MS is the is the Caregiver Programs Specialist at the Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources (GWAAR), supporting 70 counties and 11 tribal nations. With over 20 years of experience, she provides statewide training and technical assistance to strengthen caregiver support programs and improve cross-systems partnerships.
Laura Jane Ward-Strunin, Program Manager, USAging, Raleigh, NC
[biography]
Laura Jane joined USAging in October 2024 as a Program Manager. She holds a masters degree in gerontology from the University of North Carolina-Greensboro. Her expertise includes contract and grant management, long term care, and caregiver supports.
Zachary Trammel, Program Manager, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Zach Trammel serves as a Program Manager for Caregiver Navigation Services at USAging. In this role, Zach supports research and program initiatives to enhance navigation support for caregivers under the Older Americans Act, Titles II-E and VI-C.
Joyce Nussbaum, Program Director, Valley Program for Aging Services, Waynesboro, VA
[biography]
Joyce Nussbaum is Program Director at Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS). Based in Rockingham County, she holds a Social Sciences degree with a concentration in Gerontology and Family Studies from James Madison University. With 16 years at VPAS, Joyce has led key advancements in caregiver support and dementia education.
Cassandra Jackson, Vice President of Programs and Services, ElderSource, Jacksonville, FL
[biography]
Cassandra Jackson is a senior program leader at ElderSource, partnering with executive leadership to advance innovative aging and caregiver services. She oversees program strategy, quality, and new models of care, guided by frontline experience and her role as a family caregiver. Her work drives systems change and strengthens community impact.
Sandy Markwood, Chief Executive Officer, USAging, Washington, DC
Mary Ek, Director, Dementia Friendly America and Community Care Corps, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Mary Ek is the Program Director for Dementia Friendly America, a national initiative administered by USAging. Through her work, Mary supports dementia-friendly communities and Dementia Friends administrators by providing technical assistance, facilitating webinars and collaboration among stakeholders and managing the development and sharing of dementia-resources.
Theresa Uhrich, Chief Operating Officer, Region IV Area Agency on Aging, St. Joseph, MI
[biography]
Theresa Uhrich is Chief Operating Officer of Region IV Area Agency on Aging in southwest Michigan leading care management managed care and community-based services. She advances innovation and partnerships including the Community Care Corps volunteer program supporting caregivers and focuses on cross-sector collaboration to strengthen outreach navigation and practical support.
Crystal Polizzotti, Director of the Family Caregiver Support Program, AgeSpan, Lawrence, MA
[biography]
Crystal Polizzotti is Director of the Family Caregiver Support Program at AgeSpan. With over 15 years of experience in human services and a background in social work, she leads a team providing information, referrals and comprehensive support to family caregivers assisting older adults across different care settings.
Sara Maloney, Program Manager, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Sara Maloney is a Program Director at USAging, leading federally funded initiatives for older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers. She previously directed the $75 million Aging and Disability Vaccination Collaborative and now oversees the Caregiver Navigation Services grant and dementia respite technical assistance.
Laura Allen, Volunteer Coordinator, Elderbridge Agency on Aging, Mason City, IA
[biography]
Laura Allen, Volunteer Coordinator for Elderbridge Agency on Aging, has a passion for serving others in the community. Being an advocate for her mom to stay in her home after a brain injury is something that has really driven Laura to continue to help others stay in their homes. Laura
PC03) Rural Roots, Strong Networks: A Health Care Contracting Intensive for Rural AAAs
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Join this pre-conference intensive to gain the essential tools and insights needed to lead and grow successful networks of rural community-based organizations (CBOs). This session is designed for AAAs that serve rural areas and are interested in or are already participating in health care contracting and network development. Presenters will share the latest reports and practical approaches to health care contracting and network development in rural settings. Presenters will also share how to assess the needs of potential rural health care partners. Attendees will craft a compelling rural value proposition to attract potential payers and retain existing health care partners, as well as explore strategies for network engagement and support to foster long-term collaboration between rural CBOs.
Presenters:
Jessica Machler, Senior Program Manager, Rural Health and Social Engagement, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Jessica Machler serves as the Senior Program Manager of Rural Health and Social Engagement at USAging. In this position, she supports the implementation of USAging’s rural health initiatives to improve social connection for older adults and integrate health and social care in rural communities.
Abbe Lackmeyer, Project Manager, Scripps Gerontology Center - Miami University, Cincinnati, OH
[biography]
Abbe Lackmeyer, MGS, currently serves as a Project Associate with Scripps Gerontology Center. She has experience in both the academic and non-profit sectors related to programs and services for older adults. She currently works on a project evaluating the products, processes and outcomes of the Aging and Disability Business.
Marisa Scala-Foley, Director, Aging and Disability Business Institute, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Marisa Scala-Foley serves as the Director of the Aging and Disability Business Institute at USAging, which provides community-based organizations (CBOs) with the tools and resources to successfully adapt to a changing health care environment, enhance their organizational capacity and capitalize on emerging opportunities to diversify funding.
PC04) Connecting the Dots: Benefits Access and the Aging Network
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
This session explores how AAAs can advance their mission of helping older adults live with independence and dignity through enhanced benefits access.
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) will share resources designed to train staff, educate clients and facilitate benefits enrollment. This session will feature a live demonstration of BenefitsCheckUp® and a hands-on opportunity to practice benefit screenings with NCOA support (bring your laptop).
Presenters from Benefits Enrollment Centers and AAAs providing benefits services will share proven strategies and real-world experiences to help AAAs successfully implement and improve benefits access in their community. Finally, attendees will learn how technical assistance provided by USAging can support their AAA’s ongoing efforts to provide benefits assistance.
Presenters:
Miranda Root, Benefits Assistance Program Manager, USAging, Washington, DC
Deborah Stone-Walls, Chief, Programs and Services, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
This is the place for the bio.
Georgia Gerdes, Avisery Senior Training Specialist, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Georgia joined AgeOptions, the Agency on Aging for Cook County, IL, in 2007, developing community programs to educate beneficiaries and professionals on Medicare and health benefits. As Avisery Senior Training Specialist, she trains professionals on Medicare, Medicaid, and public benefits, helping older adults and people with disabilities access affordable coverage.
Jennifer Teague, Director, Health Coverage and Benefits, National Council on Aging, Arlington, VA
[biography]
Jen oversees the National Center for Benefits Outreach and Enrollment (NCBOE) also known as the MIPPA (Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act) Resource Center. Prior to joining NCOA, Jen worked in western North Carolina overseeing Adult Protectives Services, co-leading Age-Friendly initiatives, and managing aging services contracts and grants.
Maggie Flowers, MIPPA Program Director, Office of Healthcare Information and Counseling, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Maggie Flowers is Medicare Program Director at the Administration for Community Living, leading the MIPPA program to help older adults and people with disabilities access Medicare and low-income benefits. She has extensive experience in economic security and aging services and holds degrees from Texas A&M University and UT Austin.
Kelly Butts-Elston, CEO, Connections Area Agency on Aging, Council Bluffs, IA
[biography]
Kelly Butts-Elston is the CEO of Connections Area Agency on Aging serving 20 counties in western and southwestern Iowa. Kelly has worked at the agency for 23 years, serving as a division director until 2013 when she became the Associate Director before assuming her current role in February of 2017.
Gregory Zars, Deputy Director, Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, Waterloo, IA
[biography]
Mr. Gregory Zars has been with Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging since 2012. He oversees all Older Americans Act Programs. Mr. Zars holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Philosophy from the University of Northern Iowa, and a Master of Public Policy (MPP).
Ryan Ramsey, Associate Director, Health Coverage and Benefits, National Council on Aging, Arlington, VA
[biography]
Ryan Ramsey is the Associate Director of Health Coverage and Benefits within the Center for Economic Wellbeing. He has been with NCOA since 2024 and has over 12 years of experience working to support older adults including working for the SHIP and MIPPA programs and OAA service delivery in Tennessee.
PC05) Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities and Challenges for Information and Referral Programs
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Has your information and referral/assistance (I&R/A) program started using AI tools for daily operations? Whether your organization is discussing the ethics and implications, piloting a few AI tools within your telecoms software, or has fully implemented AI tools for day-to-day operations, this session is for you! Chatbots, sentiment analysis, custom phrase detection, personalized coaching, quality assurance assistance—hear from organizations that are using these tools. What has worked, what hasn’t and how does your organization’s experience fit into the AI conversation? Presenters will share from the national, state and AAA perspectives, discussing implications, using cases and first-hand accounts, as well as discussing what your organization needs to decipher opportunities and challenges in the world of AI in I&R.
Presenters:
Sara Tribe Clark, Director, Eldercare Locator, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Sara is the Director of the Eldercare Locator and DIAL at USAging, national call centers serving people with disabilities and older adults. Before joining USAging, she was a program manager at DC’s ADRC, and various Massachusetts AAAs, and the director of the National I&R Support Center at ADvancing States.
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Director of Aging Services, Allegheny County Department of Human Services Area Agency on Aging, Pittsburgh, PA
[biography]
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Ph.D., is Director of the Allegheny County DHS Area Agency on Aging. Since 2022, she has transformed services, reaching over 39,000 people annually. With extensive research and nonprofit leadership experience, she advances community-driven advocacy, earning recognition from USAging, The John A. Hartford Foundation, and Pittsburgh Business Times.
Nanette Relave, Senior Director, National I&R Support Center, ADvancing States, Arlington, VA
11:30 AM
1:00 PM
Aging Innovations & Achievement Awards Luncheon (by invitation only)
12:30 PM
2:30 PM
Innovations in Caregiving Services & Supports Pilot Site Grantee Meeting and Luncheon (by invitation only)
1:15 PM
2:15 PM
Roundtables
1:15 PM
2:15 PM
Roundtables
RT01) More Than a Roof: Connecting Housing and Transportation to Support Aging Place
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Aging in place requires more than a roof; it requires the ability to get where you need to go. This roundtable explores the disconnect between affordable housing—from single-family homes to unsubsidized rentals—and reliable transportation options, especially for older adults who no longer drive. Too often, the most affordable housing is in the least-connected places, including suburban neighborhoods, small towns and rural areas with limited or no mobility options. In this peer-learning session, participants will share local strategies, innovative ideas and challenges as the population of older adults and people with mobility limitations grows. We’ll also gather input on how USAging can support your work. Join us for a solution-focused dialogue to spark ideas and strengthen the national network around housing and mobility.
Presenters:
Molly French, Director of Housing and Services, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
For USAging, Molly advances housing stability by promoting cross-sector partnerships between the aging and disability networks and the health and housing sectors. Across her career, Molly has 20 years of experience in improving the health and well-being of older adults and populations that have been underserved.
David Somers, Senior Research Associate, Transportation and Mobility, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Staff
1:15 PM
2:15 PM
Workshops
1:15 PM
2:15 PM
Workshops
W01) Sharing the Work for Shared Populations: Success With Partnerships on Homelessness
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Some challenges are too big to handle alone, so forming partnerships with other organizations with aligned goals can position partnering organizations in becoming a proactive force for change. Workshop participants will learn about two Florida AAAs, Alliance for Aging (the AAA of Miami-Dade) and the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas, that formed cross-sector partnerships in the homeless response network to address older adults’ homelessness. The AAAs will discuss successes, challenges and the different routes their partnerships took to impact the lives of those in their communities. During Q&A, participants will have a chance to explore replicability in their communities through identifying possible connection points and methods of partnership. A handout will provide helpful resources to form cross-sector partnerships.
Presenters:
Ann Marie Winter, Executive Director, Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas, Inc. PSA 5, St. Petersburg, FL
[biography]
Ann Marie leads the Pasco-Pinellas (AAAPP) and develops & nurtures partnerships to improve the lives of seniors & persons with disabilities and serves as the agency’s representative to its state & federal partners. She has 25 years of experience working with complex domestic & multi-national social service and humanitarian organizations.
Max B. Rothman
Molly French, Director of Housing and Services, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
For USAging, Molly advances housing stability by promoting cross-sector partnerships between the aging and disability networks and the health and housing sectors. Across her career, Molly has 20 years of experience in improving the health and well-being of older adults and populations that have been underserved.
W02) Falls Prevention Coalitions: Enhancing Capacity to Address Older Adult Falls
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Preventing falls among older adults requires strong cross-sector community partnerships. The Iowa Falls Prevention Coalition (IFPC) offers a practical model for how a statewide coalition can strengthen community-based organizations’ capacity to address falls. This session, led by the National Council on Aging, the Iowa Community HUB, and the Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, highlights the establishment of IFPC as a coordinated ecosystem that improves referrals, expands evidence-based programs, and enhances awareness. Presenters will share replicable examples of how streamlined pathways, shared resources, and cross-sector collaboration have increased falls prevention capacity and impact across Iowa. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies for leveraging coalition involvement to strengthen community–clinical linkages, support organizational goals, and advance their region’s falls prevention efforts.
Presenters:
Gregory Zars, Deputy Director, Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, Waterloo, IA
[biography]
Mr. Gregory Zars has been with Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging since 2012. He oversees all Older Americans Act Programs. Mr. Zars holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Philosophy from the University of Northern Iowa, and a Master of Public Policy (MPP).
Rachelle Scott Oakley, Director of Operations, Iowa Community HUB, Des Moines, IA
Victoria Ring, Program Specialist, National Council on Aging, Philadelphia, PA
[biography]
Victoria is a dedicated social worker with a strong background in healthcare, case management, and program delivery, committed to improving quality of life for older adults. In her current role as Program Specialist at the National Council on Aging, Victoria strengthen falls prevention initiatives nationwide.
W03) Group Plans—Untapped Opportunity for Community Care Hubs
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Learn about a new business opportunity from two community care hubs who share their paths to contracting with group plans, including employer-sponsored health insurance and Medicare Advantage group plans. AgeOptions' Illinois Pathways to Health has obtained and grown its Medicare group contract and CATCH is in the beginning stages of working with a group plan. Learn what a group plan is, how it is different from Medicare Advantage and strategies to winning a contract with a group plan.
Presenters:
Janice Sparks, CATCH Executive Director, CATCH Greater Houston Community Care Hub, Houston, TX
[biography]
Dr. Sparks is an accomplished healthcare executive and gerontology expert with over 15 years of integrated care leadership, specializing in healthcare innovation, cross-sector partnerships, and large-scale program development to build sustainable systems that improve health and social outcomes for diverse communities.
Robert Mapes, Vice President of Healthcare Integration and Innovation, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Robert Mapes, MSW, is the Vice President of Healthcare Integration and Innovation at AgeOptions, the AAA of suburban Cook County, IL. He leads the Illinois Pathways to Health Community Care Hub, Medicare and Medicaid training and Development and Communications teams.
W04) Smoke, Sparks and Service: LA County’s Aging Network in Wildfire Response
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
When the Eaton and Palisades Fires struck Los Angeles County in January 2025, the Aging and Disabilities Department’s AAA mobilized rapidly to safeguard older adults and individuals with disabilities. Working with our LA County Emerging Aging and Disability Resource Connection partners and local providers, the AAA identified affected clients, minimized service disruptions, and supported displaced residents in burn areas. In coordination with the County’s Emergency Operations Center, the AAA ensured service continuity, facilitated resource distribution, and advanced recovery efforts. The department also contributed to legislative efforts supporting AB 1069 to strengthen emergency response systems for vulnerable populations. This session highlights lessons learned, effective cross-agency collaboration, and strategies to enhance community resilience and protect high-risk residents during disasters.
Presenters:
Andre Anthony, Human Services Administrator, Los Angeles County Aging and Disabilities Department, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Dedicated Human Services Administrator optimizing older adult programs in Los Angeles County. I specialize in program implementation, cross-agency collaboration, and enhancing service delivery for vulnerable populations. Committed to fostering inclusive environments, I combine data-driven leadership with deep empathy to drive sustainable social impact and organizational excellence.
Anthony Leoni, Human Services Administrator II, Los Angeles County Aging and Disabilities Department, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Anthony Leoni is a Human Services Administrator with the Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department, where he supports aging services programs and policies that serve older adults and people with disabilities across one of the nation’s largest counties. His work focuses on program administration, health and human services initiatives, and contract management, with experience developing innovative program responses during emergencies.
Karissa Reynoso, Administrative Manager,  Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Karissa Reynoso serves as an Administrative Manager with the Los Angeles County Department of Aging & Disabilities. She oversees data analytics and reporting initiatives that support programs serving older adults throughout one of the largest aging networks in the nation. Her work focuses on improving data quality, enhancing reporting systems, and using program data to inform decisions and improve services.
W05) Elevating Managers: Two Proven Models for Building Competence and Confidence
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Learn how to build a highly effective in-house skill-building training for management using two successful, contrasting models from the Aging Network. This session features a co-presentation by Bay Aging and Lewis-Mason-Thurston AAA (LMTAAA) with comparison of our management training curricula. Bay Aging will detail its customized six- session skill-building framework consisting of in-person sessions, online training, case study and role-playing for increased competence and confidence. LMTAAA will showcase a consultant model, which incorporates co-mentoring, refining high-impact leadership practices and strengthening strategic thinking. These programs increase management’s ability to execute operational functions in their department and division. Attendees will gain a practical blueprint, compare the structural trade-offs of both programs, and review tangible results to help launch or optimize your own management development initiatives.
Presenters:
Kyle Sanchez, Planning Director, Lewis - Mason - Thurston Area Agency on Aging, Olympia, WA
[biography]
Kyle has a master’s in public administration with a focus on nonprofit management from the University of North Florida. In 2023 he joined Lewis-Mason-Thurston Area Agency on Aging as ADRC Supervisor and currently serves as Planning Director. He started his career in aging at ElderSource in 2020.
MaDena DuChemin, Director, Human Resources, Bay Aging, Urbanna, VA
[biography]
B.S. in Business Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University and over 30 years’ experience. She is dual-certified in human resources. She believes everyone should “bring their A game” to work. Bring all your knowledge, skills, abilities, and experiences with you to be better today than yesterday.
Stephanie Hudgins, Director, Administration & Operations, Bay Aging, Urbanna, VA
[biography]
Director of Administration and Operations with 8 years of dedicated service to the aging community. Skilled in strategic planning, program development, and human resources. Passionate about improving the quality of life for older adults through efficient operations and innovative programs.
W06) Innovative Programs for Victims of Late-Life Domestic Violence
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
This session will demonstrate that Domestic Violence Does Not Respect Age (DOVES) by exploring the impact of late-life domestic violence. The Area Agency on Aging, Region One, in Phoenix, AZ, will highlight its DOVES program, an award winning, innovative and comprehensive program for older victims that offers transitional housing, community mobile advocacy, support groups, lay legal services, mental health support and emergency hotel stays. Attendees will learn strategies to help older victims on their path to safety and self-sufficiency.
Presenters:
Mary Lynn Kasunic, President & CEO, Area Agency on Aging, Region One, Phoenix, AZ
[biography]
Mary Lynn Kasunic has been the President & CEO of the Area Agency on Aging, Region One since 1990. Under her leadership, the Agency provides over 50 programs and services to more than 122,000 Maricopa County residents each year.
Cyndi Patterson, Director of DOVES, Area Agency on Aging, Region One, Phoenix, AZ
[biography]
Cyndi Patterson is a graduate of the Behavioral Health and Science Program at the University of Arizona. Cyndi has worked in the Social Service Arena for more than 30 years. She is currently the Director of the DOVES Domestic Violence Program at the Area Agency on Aging Region One.
W07) Living Well With “Buddy AL”: Supporting San Diegans With Dementia
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Living well with dementia is possible, and when individuals, families and communities work together, lives can be transformed. This session highlights how the County of San Diego, Aging & Independence Services, is working to improve quality of life for people living with dementia and their care partners in the San Diego region through programming, education and convening community partners. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from a local couple that is navigating a dementia diagnosis (“Buddy AL”), from the perspectives of both the person living with dementia and her care partner. Together, they will share an inspirational vision and share lessons learned to navigate the challenges associated with living with dementia.
Presenters:
Carolyn Kendle, Community Health Program Specialist, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Carolyn Kendle, MPH is a Community Health Program Specialist with the County of San Diego’s Aging & Independence Services. She oversees County initiatives, programs, and grants related to older adult fall prevention and dementia, including Dementia Friends, Tai Chi, and the Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program.
Larry Wagner, Founder, Alzheimer's Thriver, CA
[biography]
Larry Wagner is the husband and care partner of Janna Wagner. They founded the Wagner's School of Music and Alzheimer’s Thriver.
Janna Wagner, Co-Founder, Alzheimer's Thriver, CA
[biography]
Janna Wagner is a mom to multiples, professional musician, retired high school math teacher and woman of faith. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Flute Performance, and a Master's in Special Education. Together with her husband, Larry, they founded the Wagner's School of Music and Alzheimer’s Thriver.
W08) Reframing Communications About Senior Centers: Lessons Learned From Pennsylvania
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Through a groundbreaking partnership between the Pennsylvania Department of Aging and the National Center to Reframe Aging (NCRA), together we are developing innovative communication strategies to position Pennsylvania’s 450+ senior centers as vital community hubs. Building on the NCRA's evidence-based work, this partnership is testing targeted messages to improve public understanding of senior centers. This session will review the three phases of this project and provide insight into implementing multisector plans, bringing partners at all levels to the table, including AAAs, and the importance of reframing aging strategies to inspire support for similar initiatives in other jurisdictions.
Presenters:
Jason Kavulich, Secretary of Aging, Pennsylvania Department of Aging, Harrisburg, PA
[biography]
In 2023, Jason Kavulich was nominated by Governor Josh Shapiro to serve as Secretary of Aging for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, where one in three residents will be age 60+ by 2030. Secretary Kavulich is leading and advocating for an aging network of quality, sustainable programs that support Pennsylvania’s growing
Rebecca May-Cole, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Association of Area Agencies on Aging, Harrisburg, PA
[biography]
Rebecca May-Cole is an experienced public policy and administration executive with extensive experience working with community-based human services organizations to serve older adults and people with disabilities.
Patricia D'Antonio, Project Director, Vice President, Policy and Professional Affairs, The National Center to Reframe Aging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Patricia "Trish" D'Antonio, BSPharm, MS, MBA, BCGP, is GSA’s Vice President of Policy and Professional Affairs and the Project Director for the National Center to Reframing Aging. D'Antonio received her Master of Science in health finance and Master in Business Administration from Temple University. She is a board-certified geriatric pharmacist.
W10) Translating the Respite for All Faith-Based Model Into a Successful Secular Program
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
We will explore how the award-winning Respite for All (RFA) model—originally rooted in a faith-based setting—can be effectively adapted for use in public or civic community-based environments. RFA uses a person-centered, strength-based approach to provide meaningful engagement for people living with dementia, vital respite for care partners, and rewarding experiences for volunteers. RFA offers a highly sustainable, innovative model of dementia care that fosters creativity, autonomy, cognitive resilience and a strong sense of belonging. R Place is a standout example of how the RFA all-faith-based model can be successfully adapted for secular organizations. We will present qualitative research evaluating the experiences of people living with dementia, family caregivers and volunteers participating in the R Place–RFA program.
Presenters:
Daphne Johnston, Founder and CEO, Respite for All Foundation, Montgomery, AL
[biography]
Daphne Johnston, Executive Director and co-founder of the Respite for All Foundation, is a national advocate for volunteer-driven dementia care. After launching a pioneering respite ministry in 2012, she has helped replicate the sustainable model nationwide to 65 communities in places of worship and senior centers.
Alison Smith, Social Engagement Coordinator, R Place Director, Orange County Department on Aging, Chapel Hill, NC
[biography]
Alison Smith is the Director of R Place at the Orange County Department on Aging. Alison is a certified dementia practitioner (CDP) and collaborates closely with a multidisciplinary team of geriatric professionals to deliver dementia education, training, support, and social engagement opportunities for older adults in Orange County, NC.
Eleanor Hummel, Research Assistant, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
[biography]
Eleanor (Ellie) graduated from UNC with a bachelor’s degree in health policy and management and is currently working as a research assistant. Ellie was invited to present an abstract on her honors thesis, Understanding the Respite for All model, at the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting.
W11) Coordinating OAA Titles III/VI to Enhance Supports to Tribal Elders
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
The OAA requires that states and AAAs coordinate their Title III planning, programs and services with Tribes and their Title VI planning, programs and services. The opportunities to improve outreach and service delivery to Native Elders through this coordination are plentiful; best practice examples will be highlighted.
Presenter:
Jasmine Aplin, Aging Services Program Special, Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Jasmine Aplin has nearly a decade of federal experience, including over three years supporting Title VI programs at ACL. She has led stakeholder engagement efforts and Tribal site visits and previously served at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. She holds a JD and an MPH.
W12) Making Aging Services Truly Accessible: Addressing Deaf and Hard of Hearing Needs
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
When someone reaches out for help, that initial outreach is the first, and most critical, touchpoint for trust between aging services organizations and the communities they serve. Yet millions of older adults who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing face barriers with traditional communication channels, creating gaps in equal access and engagement. This workshop explores these challenges, highlighting where current systems fall short and where improvements are needed. Learn how organizations are reimagining customer experience through accessibility-first communication design, and how assistive technologies and comprehensive practices can ensure universal access so that no one is left out or overlooked.
Presenters:
Irisa MacAulay, Business Development Associate, CSD Access
[biography]
Irisa brings over 5 years of experience in international development, focusing on disability-inclusive solutions and strategic partnerships. Passionate about accessibility driving innovation, she champions "nothing without us." As Business Development Associate at CSD Access, Irisa cultivates partnerships and expands organizations/companies reach to advance communication access for the Deaf community.
Cameron Papazis, Business Development Manager, Communication Service for the Deaf
[biography]
Cam’s career began as an interpreter, where she saw the communication barriers Deaf individuals experience daily, including those faced by her family and friends. With a desire to make a greater impact, she joined CSD, focusing on advocacy and helping organizations strengthen communication access for Deaf consumers.
W13) Achieving Success in Social Connection Contracting
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
The John A. Hartford Foundation (JAHF) 2025 Business Innovation Award honors innovative and transformative social connection initiatives by community-based organizations that contract with health care entities, with the goal of replicating these successful partnerships across the country. The 2025 winners include United Disabilities Services, Elder Services of the Worcester Area and Senior Connection. A panel facilitated by JAHF will discuss partnerships and contracting models in social connection, along with creative strategies for achieving meaningful outcomes for older adults, people with disabilities and their family caregivers. These national award recipients will share examples and case studies, engage the audience in discussions and participate in Q&A.
Presenters:
Kathie Garbe, Senior Program Manager, Aging and Disability Business Institute, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Senior Program Manager, Aging and Disability Business Institute, Dr. Garbe is the Editor of the BI Update and contributes to and manages projects at USAging and the Business Institute. Kathie holds a BS in Health and Physical Education, MS in Health Education and Ph.D. in Health Studies.
Moses Dixon, President and CEO, Senior Connection, Inc., Worcester, MA
[biography]
Dr. Moses S. Dixon, PhD, is President and CEO of Senior Connection, Inc. and a leading practitioner in Global Health and Social Medicine with a comprehensive background in the non-profit and governmental sectors locally and nationally.
Nancy Wexler, Program Officer, The John A. Hartford Foundation, New York, NY
[biography]
Dr. Nancy Wexler is a program officer at The John A. Hartford Foundation. She has more than 16 years of experience in developing and managing integrated care delivery and population health models aimed at improving the quality, value, and experience of care.
2:30 PM
3:30 PM
Workshops
2:30 PM
3:30 PM
Workshops
W17) On Your Mark, Get Set, Go! Operationalizing Health Care Contracts for Success
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Come to this session to learn about health plan and health care organization requirements during the onboarding process to ensure data security and operational compliance and quality oversight. This session will discuss the myriad activities and types of document submission requirements expected from AAAs, community care hubs and other community-based organizations after signing a contract and before beginning operations. The workshop will feature and attendees will receive access to a new brief and a workbook designed to help your organization prepare for these health care requirements. These tools can help your team go from signing the contract to serving clients and achieving the contract's goals as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Presenters:
Ljudmila Burchfield, Senior Vice President, Compliance, Legal Affairs, Data Protection and Privacy, Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities, Uniontown, OH
[biography]
Mrs. Burchfield has over 20 years of healthcare experience. She has served in clinical and operational roles in acute and post-acute care settings. Her experiences also include establishing and managing compliance programs as well as serving as legal counsel.
Mark Humowiecki, General Counsel & Senior Director, National Center for Complex Health and Social Needs, Camden Coalition, Camden, NJ
[biography]
Mark Humowiecki is an attorney with nearly two decades of experience as an executive leader in state government and CBOs. He is the founding senior director of the Camden Coalition’s National Center for Complex Health and Social Needs initiative that seeks to build the field of complex care through convening,
Paul Cantrell, Director, Center of Excellence to to Align Health and Social Care, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
More than 30 years of experience in managed care and social service organizational leadership and consulting. Experience includes: State Insurance Regulator, Managed Care Corporate Director, AAA Hub Executive Director, and 10+ years USAging, SUA, state AAA association and AAA consulting.
W18) Center for Dementia Respite Innovation: Insights, Impact and Rural Spotlight
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
The Alzheimer’s Association Center for Dementia Respite Innovation (CDRI), funded by the Administration for Community Living, funds innovative projects that expand and improve respite care for people living with dementia and their caregivers. Over five years, CDRI will award $20 million in competitive grants to providers nationwide, advancing person-centered care through innovation, collaboration, accessibility, affordability and sustainability. This session will highlight CDRI’s scope, funded projects, evaluation data and lessons learned. The session will also feature a spotlight from Aging and In-Home Services of Northeast Indiana (AIHS), a AAA that was a Year 2 CDRI grant award recipient. Attendees will hear from AIHS staff about how they implemented a dementia-specific respite service delivery model in collaboration with community partners and found a sustainable, scalable solution for respite in their rural community through CDRI.
Presenters:
Isabella Marini, Senior Associate Director, Center for Dementia Respite Innovation, Alzheimer's Association, Chicago, IL
[biography]
Isabella Marini is the Associate Director of the Center for Dementia Respite Innovation at the Alzheimer’s Association. Isabella holds a bachelor’s degree in nonprofit administration from Cleveland State University and is currently pursuing a dual master’s degree in business administration and healthcare administration from Indiana Wesleyan University.
Erin Long, Aging Services Program Specialist, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Coming soon
Beth Evans, President & CEO, Aging & In-Home Services of Northeast Indiana, Fort Wayne, IN
[biography]
Beth Evans, MHA, President & CEO, Aging & In-Home Services of Northeast Indiana. Beth has built a comprehensive skillset working in various roles agency-wide to support strategic growth, access and implementation of home and community-based services and supports. Her current focus is on underserved populations and developing new revenue streams.
W19) From Silos to Solutions: Housing Partnerships for Aging Well
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Across the country, agencies serving unhoused older adults, individuals with disabilities and individuals with behavioral health needs often operate in silos—leading to gaps, duplication of services and missed opportunities to access pathways to comprehensive behavioral health services along with safe and supportive housing. This session highlights how San Bernardino County’s Departments of Aging and Adult Services–Public Guardian, Behavioral Health, and Community Development and Housing formed a groundbreaking partnership to co-design and deliver housing, health and recovery supports at the Pacific Village Campus. Together, these agencies created an integrated continuum of interim and permanent supportive housing, case management, behavioral health treatment and recuperative care. Attendees will learn practical strategies to replicate cross-system collaboration; braid funding; and design more accessible, livable communities with onsite behavioral health programming.
Presenters:
Amber Carpenter, Deputy Director, San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
Amber Carpenter, LCSW, is Deputy Director for Substance Use Disorder and Recovery Services at San Bernardino County Behavioral Health. A behavioral health leader, she specializes in prevention, quality assurance, and recovery services. She has led major initiatives including the development of the Screening, Assessment and Referral Center and ARISE programs.
Jennifer Pohlman, Special Projects Manager, San Bernardino County Department of Aging and Adult Services - Public Guardian, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
Jennifer Pohlman is a seasoned Program Manager with extensive experience in aging services, grant administration, and large-scale program development. She has secured over $50M in funding, led major public health initiatives, and drives strategic, compliant, and community-focused solutions that strengthen support for older adults and vulnerable populations.
Rob Gillam, Acting Director, San Bernardino County Community Development and Housing Department, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
Rob Gilliam is Acting Director of Community Development and Housing for San Bernardino County, with 28+ years of experience leading public construction and capital programs. He specializes in scaling initiatives that support essential community services and serves on the CMAA Southern California Board, advocating for innovation in construction management.
W20) Support to Sustainability: Strategies for Expanding Your Caregiver Program
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Short description: Bay Aging—one of only five AAAs in the nation selected to provide Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) to family caregivers—demonstrates how innovative approaches can transform support systems. Learn how one of America’s oldest counties expanded its family caregiver support program by 460 percent in three years through creative outreach, flexible service models and strong community partnerships. This session highlights how counselors with personal caregiving experience used a boots-on-the-ground strategy to engage caregivers, including those who may not recognize themselves in that role. Participants will explore practical techniques such as micro-sessions, in-home support, adaptable communication method, and targeted collaborations that reduce isolation and strengthen connection. Attendees will gain insight into monitoring growth, adapting during challenging circumstances and building sustainable solutions that continue to elevate family caregiver support across the county.
Presenters:
Kelsie Houston, Caregiver Support Options Counselor, Bay Aging, Urbanna, VA
[biography]
Kelsie has worked with older adults for 16 years and volunteered with the Alzheimer’s Association for 12 years. Kelsie is the primary caregiver for her uncle who was diagnosed at age 57 and mother diagnosed at 54. Her passion behind her work comes from personal experiences and making a difference.
Mary Arthur, Lead Options Counselor, Caregiver Support, Bay Aging, Urbanna, VA
[biography]
Mary Arthur has worked in the senior service industry for 21 years. Mary trained and became a Consultant and Trainer for Teepa Snow’s organization, The Positive Approach to Care. She is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Alzheimer's Association Support Group Facilitator, Advocate, and Community Educator.
W21) Futureproofing Your Workforce: Strategies to Address Shortages and Build Capacity
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Are you experiencing challenges in finding and onboarding the right talent? Are you tired of vital agency knowledge residing with only a few individuals? Do you worry about staff retention, succession planning and how your organization will look in 10 years? In this workshop, you will learn how to recruit and build capacity and reimagine current practices through technology, helping you increase your organization’s bench strength and leadership skills to ensure its longevity. You will learn how to assess your organizational strengths, challenges and opportunities; how to develop strategies to build community partnerships; and how to increase your capacity through learning, technology and other approaches.
Presenters:
Jacqueline Hutsell, Chief Human Resources and Learning Officer, Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio, Blue Ash, OH
[biography]
With 30+ years’ experience in Human Resources and Training Development and a master’s degree from Xavier University, Jacqueline is certified as a Professional in Human Resources and as a Human Capital Strategist. An author, she holds a Diversity and Inclusion Certificate from Cornell University and is an SAOL Certified Consultant.
Suzanne Burke, Chief Executive Officer, Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio, Blue Ash, OH
[biography]
Suzanne Burke is Chief Executive Officer of Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio. She has served in this position since 2005. Suzanne has a master’s degree in Business Administration (Marketing) from Xavier University and a bachelor’s degree in Marketing with a minor in Gerontology from Miami University.
W23) The Power of Pilina: Volunteers and AAAs Restoring Lives and Transforming Services
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Safe, stable homes and strong social connections are essential to aging in place—especially in communities recovering from disaster. This session explores how Maui County partners are expanding safety, independence, and resilience for kūpuna (elders) through coordinated home repairs and volunteer-driven support. Habitat for Humanity’s A Brush With Kindness program provides critical repairs and accessibility modifications across Maui, Moloka‘i, and Lāna‘i. Complementing this work, Nā Hoaloha’s volunteer network offers friendly visits, reassurance calls, and in‑home assistance that reduce isolation and extend the reach of the Maui County Office on Aging. Together, these models demonstrate how AAAs can leverage cross-sector partnerships, community volunteers, and disaster-response lessons to help older adults remain safe, connected, and supported in their communities.
Presenters:
Rowena Dagdag-Andaya, Maui County Office on Aging, Wailuku, HI
[biography]
Rowena Dagdag-Andaya is the County Executive for the Maui County Office on Aging. She previously served as the Director and Deputy Director of Public Works for 11 years. Before joining the County of Maui, Rowena was a senior planner in an urban planning and governmental affairs firm and an educator.
Judy Guajardo, Volunteer Coordinator, Na Hoaloha, Wailuku, HI
[biography]
Judy Guajardo serves as the Volunteer Coordinator for Na Hoaloha, where she plays a vital role in connecting compassionate community members with kupuna in need of support. With a strong background in volunteer management and community engagement, Judy oversees recruitment, training, and placement of volunteers.
W24) Reaching the Unreached: Scalable Strategies for Social Connection and Healthy Aging
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Across the country, older adults face increasing social isolation, mobility limitations and barriers to meaningful engagement. This session will showcase four innovative, comprehensive and highly replicable programs from Howard County’s (MD) Office on Aging and Independence that effectively promote social connection, healthy aging and a renewed sense of purpose. Participants will learn how the award-winning Grand Day Out intergenerational program, the empowering Women and Weights strength-training series, the high-impact Virtual 50+ Exercise Package and the energizing Speed Friending model each reach older adults who are often overlooked. Presenters will share outcome data, design tools and actionable strategies for removing barriers such as cost, transportation and confidence. Attendees will leave with adaptable program templates that strengthen community connection and elevate aging services in any setting.
Presenters:
Matthew Madera, 50+ Centers Division Manager, Howard County Office on Aging, Columbia, MD
[biography]
Matthew has been with Howard County Government for over 23 years. In June 2022, he joined the Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) as the 50+ Centers Division Manager, where he oversees the operations and programming of their six 50+ Centers. OAI serves as Howard County’s Area Agency on Aging.
Sherri Lively, 50+ Center Fitness Specialist
W25) Chapter 2—Celebrating 51 Years: Reflections, Advocacy and the Future of Aging
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
The session will reflect on the 51-year history of AAAs, highlighting accomplishments, challenges and the vital role they play in shaping the aging services landscape from local and national perspectives. The three tenured panelists, who have a combined 150 years of Aging Network and advocacy experience at AAAs and at the national level, will engage in a lively discussion about lessons learned over the last 50 years; highlight the importance of advocacy in the current environment; present a forward-looking perspective on challenges and opportunities for aging services, focusing on the next phase of advocacy; and engage participants in discussions about the next steps for sustaining and improving programs for older Americans.
Presenters:
Bill Benson, President, International Association for Indigenous Aging, Silver Spring, MD
[biography]
Bill Benson is President of the IA2 and has worked in aging and health for over four decades. Bill has held senior leadership positions from the state to federal level and is a national advocate on elder justice and brain health.
Diane Slezak, President and CEO, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Diane Slezak is President and CEO of AgeOptions and the President of Illinois Association of AAA’s. She serves as a USAging Alternate Board member. She is known for her advocacy to establish programs to serve elders including recently, obtaining state funding to support caregivers.
Mary Lynn Kasunic, President & CEO, Area Agency on Aging, Region One, Phoenix, AZ
[biography]
Mary Lynn Kasunic has been the President & CEO of the Area Agency on Aging, Region One since 1990. Under her leadership, the Agency provides over 50 programs and services to more than 122,000 Maricopa County residents each year.
W27) Model Program Meets Critical Needs of Vulnerable Adults
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Learn how Minnesota’s regional AAAs, serving rural and urban communities, partnered with county Adult Protective Services (APS) and the Minnesota Department of Human Services to provide wraparound support to vulnerable adults who had experienced abuse, financial exploitation or neglect. Each APS client was assigned a case manager at the AAA and a budget of up to $2,500 to help stabilize their lives. This 18-month pilot program replicated an initiative first developed in Missouri. Minnesota’s AAAs worked with counties and state staff to modify the service delivery model and tailored the Cumulus technology platform to support a custom response. Eighty-five percent of county APS programs reported that clients gained access to services they would not have otherwise received.
Presenters:
Dawn Simonson, President and CEO, Trellis, Arden Hills, MN
[biography]
Dawn Simonson is the President and CEO of Trellis. Dawn champions organizational vision and provides strategic leadership resulting in services and programs that benefit older adults and their families in the Twin Cities region and throughout Minnesota. Dawn holds deep experience in aging services development, advocacy, collaboration and innovation.
Heather Pender, Director, Dancing Sky Area Agency on Aging, Warren, MN
[biography]
Heather Pender has worked for the Dancing Sky Area Agency on Aging for 11 years, serving 21 counties in northwestern Minnesota. Heather’s passion is supporting older adults in rural Minnesota. She has a background in Gerontology and Community Health and is currently pursuing a master’s in Advocacy and Political Leadership.
Rebecca Sash, Director, Arrowhead Area Agency on Aging, Duluth, MN
[biography]
Rebecca is the Director of the Arrowhead Area Agency on Aging (AAAA), which serves the seven counties of northeastern Minnesota. With a deep passion for addressing the diverse needs of the aging population, she is dedicated to building strategic partnerships that improve the lives of older adults in the region.
W28) Bridging the Gap in Serious Illness Care: A Replicable Model for AAAs
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Despite the support of AAAs, people living with serious illness, such as cancer or dementia, often live with undertreated symptoms and receive health care that conflicts with their values. Advance care planning (ACP) and palliative care (PC) address these issues. This session introduces a culturally responsive, community-driven model for uniting health care providers, AAAs, community organizations and communities with limited resources to raise awareness about ACP and PC. Attendees will hear from leaders who created and scaled this model and participate in small group discussions to reflect on their communities’ needs and opportunities. Presenters will share lessons learned from coalition activities, including culturally tailored outreach and education. Participants will leave with practical steps for developing coalitions to support older adults and people living with serious illness.
Presenters:
Kelly Dearman, Executive Director, San Francisco Disability and Aging Services, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Executive Director, San Francisco Department of Disability and Aging Services (DAS). Kelly leads the City’s integrated aging and disability service system, supporting independence, dignity, and community living for more than 70,000 older adults and disabled residents.
Grant Smith, Medical Director, Palliative Care Community Partnerships Team, Stanford School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Grant Smith, MD is a palliative care physician and Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at the Stanford School of Medicine. He received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School and completed his residency in internal medicine and fellowship in hospice and palliative medicine at the University of California, San Francisco.
Loren Pogir, Executive Director, San Francisco Palliative Care Work Group, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Loren Pogir is Executive Director of the San Francisco Palliative Care Work Group. She leads cross-sector efforts to expand access to serious illness and end of life care and is recognized for building partnerships, guiding strategy, and supporting organizations in improving care for older adults and families.
W29) Creating Engaging Environments for Socialization
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Area Agency on Aging 3 (AAA3) in Lima, OH, will explore how three unique social programs were created to address the critical need for community and connection among older adults. By varying the opportunities available in their seven-county service area, AAA3 works to reach isolated, food-insecure and at-risk individuals within the rural landscape. Learn how AAA3 leverages available funding; creates sustainable, effective and fun programming; and extends the initiatives throughout the community.
Presenters:
Anna Hairston, Awakenings Care Coordinator, Area Agency on Aging 3, Lima, OH
[biography]
Anna Hairston has a master's in clinical social work with a concentration in Gerontology and has been an advocate for older adult victims of crime for 6.5 years within AAA3's Awakenings Victim Outreach program. She has had the pleasure to speak at national conferences on her work with older adults.
Dre White, Population Health Director, Area Agency on Aging 3, Lima, OH
[biography]
Dre oversees programming focused on assisting those served live active, healthy lives to maintain independence and continue to contribute to society. Population Health programs include Nutrition, Health Education, Care Coordination, and vaccine efforts. Dre has been with AAA3 since January 2019.
W30) ACL Discussion Session for Regions I, 2, 3 and 5
Note: This session is only open to AAAs and Title VI programs.
Join your AAA/Title VI peers in your regions for an open dialogue with U.S. Administration for Community Living senior leaders. Bring your questions, concerns and successes from the AAA/Title VI perspective to share with our federal partners
Presenters:
Adam Mosey, Special Assistant, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Adam Mosey currently serves as a Special Assistant at the Administration on Aging, one of ACL’s programmatic Centers, where he works on key policy and program issues related to the Older Americans Act. He also concurrently serves as a Sergeant First Class in the Army National Guard.
Alice Kelsey, Deputy Director, Administration on Aging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Alice Kelsey is the Deputy Director for the Administration on Aging. She has 15 years’ experience in the Aging Network and holds a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs.
Kari Benson, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Kari Benson serves as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging for the Administration on Aging. Kari has spent her entire career in the aging network and holds degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota.
W31) A Unique Model to Improve Care Transitions: FC-CE
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Kentucky’s Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program established statewide FlourishCare Centers of Excellence (FC-CEs) to strengthen how care is delivered to older adults and improve care transitions. These centers unite universities, AAAs, health care providers and community organizations to ensure professionals are equipped with specialized, age-friendly expertise. Led by AAAs and supported by a multidisciplinary steering committee, FC-CEs coordinate services across hospitals, primary care, long-term care and community supports to promote dignity, independence and well-being. The initiative improves access to personalized, age- and dementia-friendly care and creates smoother transitions across care settings. This session will highlight key successes, including workforce development innovations, effective partnership models and strategies for replication. FC-CEs are setting a new standard for high-quality, coordinated care for Kentucky’s aging population.
Presenters:
Barbara Gordon, Director of Community Engagement, University of Louisviile Trager Institute, Louisville, KY
[biography]
Barbara Gordon is currently Director of Community Engagement at the University of Louisville Trager Institute/Optimal Aging Clinic and teaches at the UofL Kent School of SW. Ms. Gordon’s professional career spans four+ decades, including her work at KIPDA as the Director of Social Services, the AAA serving 7 counties.
Jessica Elkin, Director of Social Services, Kentuckiana Regional Planning and Development Agency (KIPDA) Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living, Louisville, KY
[biography]
Jessica is the Director of the KIPDA Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living. She has worked in the field of social and human services for more than 20 years and has worked at the AAAIL for more than 10 years.
Pam Yankeelov, Director of Research, University of Louisville Trager Institute Optimal Aging Clinic, Louisville, KY
[biography]
Dr. Pam Yankeelov is the Director of Research at the University of Trager Institute Optimal Aging Clinic. She is Professor & Distinguished University Teacher Kent School of Social Work, University of Louisville. Ms. Yankeelov has several years of experience engaging in research and evaluation that is translatable in communities.
3:45 PM
5:30 PM
General Sessions
3:45 PM
5:30 PM
General Sessions
GS01) Caregivers as the Foundation of Health and Social Care
Sponsored by Mom's Meals
Millions of family caregivers are the invisible backbone of our health and social care system, but often at the cost of their own financial, physical and emotional health. Richard Lui, an award-winning news anchor, board director and business founder, is a long-time caregiver and knows this all too well. From directing two films on mental health and caregiving, to his innovative work with the CARE Genome project and the Caregiving Moonshot initiative, Lui comes to the conclusion that health and social care systems must be designed around caregivers. This is a solvable challenge, requiring innovation, investment, intentional design—and the involvement of the Aging Network!
Sunday, July 19
6:30 AM
7:30 AM
21st Annual Early Bird Walk
6:30 AM
7:30 AM
21st Annual Early Bird Walk
You’re invited to kick off your Conference morning with a refreshing 2.2-mile roundtrip walk along San Diego’s beautiful waterfront! Join us as we explore highlights, including Seaport Village’s open-air shops and eateries, the scenic paths of Tuna Harbor Park, the iconic 25-foot Embracing Peace Statue and the historic USS Midway Museum. This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow attendees, enjoy some fresh air and experience a few of the city’s most memorable landmarks before the day’s sessions begin. Let’s get moving together!
7:30 AM
5:00 PM
Registration and Information Desk Open
7:30 AM
8:30 AM
Morning Refreshments in the Tradeshow
8:30 AM
10:00 AM
General Sessions
8:30 AM
10:00 AM
General Sessions
GS02) Excellence in Aging and Community Living: A Federal Perspective
How is the federal government supporting your efforts to serve older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers? Mary Lazare, the top Trump Administration official at the U.S. Administration for Community Living, will share the agency’s priorities: caregiving, connecting people to services, whole-person health, employment and protecting rights and preventing abuse.
10:00 AM
10:30 AM
Networking Break in the Tradeshow
10:30 AM
11:30 AM
Roundtables
10:30 AM
11:30 AM
Roundtables
RT02) Connecting Care: Co-Designing Smarter Systems for Rural Older Adults and Caregivers
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Rural AAAs are navigating workforce shortages, facing increased service demands and managing evolving expectations for service delivery and reporting. Join this engaging discussion to explore how technology can be leveraged to balance workforce capacity while remaining responsive to the unique realities of rural communities. Grounded in human-centered and accessible design principles, we will focus on practical, doable approaches to technology implementation that support older adults and caregivers in managing their health and well-being. Participants are invited to share experiences, challenges and ideas to strengthen digital access, technology adoption, literacy and trust in rural areas. Together, we will identify barriers to adoption, generate innovative solutions and prioritize technology needs that can inform broader national strategies for strengthening the Aging Network.
Presenters:
Jessica Machler, Senior Program Manager, Rural Health and Social Engagement, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Jessica Machler serves as the Senior Program Manager of Rural Health and Social Engagement at USAging. In this position, she supports the implementation of USAging’s rural health initiatives to improve social connection for older adults and integrate health and social care in rural communities.
Sara Maloney, Program Manager, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Sara Maloney is a Program Director at USAging, leading federally funded initiatives for older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers. She previously directed the $75 million Aging and Disability Vaccination Collaborative and now oversees the Caregiver Navigation Services grant and dementia respite technical assistance.
10:30 AM
11:30 AM
Workshops
10:30 AM
11:30 AM
Workshops
W32) Live From DC: A Federal Aging Policy Update
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Advocacy is a critical part of our shared mission to support older adults and family caregivers. To support Aging Network advocates, USAging's policy staff will expand upon our
2026 Policy Priorities
and provide an in-depth, real-time update about breaking aging and health care policy issues that will affect your clients and communities. Get the latest updates on movements in Congress and the Administration, the Older Americans Act, appropriations, Medicaid HCBS, caregiver policies, key advocacy messages and what you can do now to advance better federal aging policy! This session is appropriate for all levels of policy knowledge.
Presenters:
Amy Gotwals, Chief, Public Policy and External Affairs, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
In her role, Amy leads USAging's public policy, advocacy, communications, external relations and membership relations activities. Representing local aging agencies, Amy serves as the lead in outreach to Congress and the Administration to ensure that needed resources and support services are available to older Americans and their caregivers.
Olivia Umoren Ezeuko, Director, Public Policy and Advocacy, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
In her role, Olivia directs the association’s legislative affairs and advocacy efforts to advance federal policies that address the needs of an aging America, plays a vital role in the development of USAging’s policy positions and priorities, and represents USAging in meetings with congressional staff and administration officials.
W33) Aging Services Providers Responding to the Unexpected Lessons From Two Community Crises
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
As building infrastructure ages and extreme weather events continue, the crisis response system must be prepared to serve people of all ages who need immediate—and sometimes longer term—support, including older adults. This session will share experiences from four partners whose work focuses on serving older adults in St. Louis, MO, and have been a part of several recent crisis response events, including: 1) an apartment building evacuation that led to 160 residents being immediately and permanently displaced; and 2) a tornado that impacted thousands of households, many of whom were already struggling with basic needs and housing insecurity. Lessons from response efforts for both of these events will be shared, with a particular focus on skills and knowledge, supplie, and other resources that have been most helpful.
Presenters:
Stephanie Herbers, Program Manager, St. Louis City Senior Fund, St. Louis, MO
[biography]
Stephanie Herbers is a program manager with the St. Louis City Senior Fund, a fund whose revenue comes from a portion of City of St. Louis property taxes. Senior Fund supports local organizations that focus on ensuring older adults have access to services and other resources they need such as
Samantha Ferguson Knight, Director of Senior Programming, LifeWise StL, St. Louis, MO
[biography]
Samantha Ferguson Knight is the Director of Senior Programming at LifeWise StL. She oversees programs and services for older adults, including the AmeriCorps Senior Companion Program and the Senior Resiliency Fund. She co-founded the Senior Support Team as a result of the Tornado.
Anneliese Stoever, Director, St. Louis Area Agency on Aging, St Louis, MO
[biography]
Anneliese Stoever, MSW is the Director of the St Louis Area Agency on Aging and supervises staff, develops programs, writes grants, monitors services, and leads several community project initiatives. Ms. Stoever has a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Kansas and a Masters in Social Work.
W34) Scaling Falls Prevention Across the Nation
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
While falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries for older Americans, they are also preventable. This session will detail the U.S. Administration for Community Living’s focus on reducing falls by scaling an individualized, multi-factorial approach as critical components in achieving the public-private vision in the National Falls Prevention Action Plan. It will highlight a comprehensive strategy, including evidence-based programs, nutrition, multi-factorial falls prevention innovations and new research.
Presenters:
Kelly Cronin, Deputy Administrator of the Center for Innovation and Partnership, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Kelly Cronin is Deputy Administrator of the Center for Innovation and Partnership at the Administration for Community Living, leading programs and initiatives that serve older adults and people with disabilities. She is a liaison to the Partnership to Align Social Care and its Coordinating Committee.
Leigh Ann Eagle, Chief Operations Officer, Maryland Living Well Center of Excellence–MAC, Inc., Salisbury, MD
[biography]
Leigh Ann Eagle is the Chief Operating Officer of the Living Well Center of Excellence (LWCE) at MAC, Inc., an area agency on aging that oversees Maryland’s implementation of Healthy Aging Evidence Based Programs. Ms. Eagle is responsible for all aspects of program management for LWCE.
W36) Community Care Corps: Volunteerism as a Bridge to Support
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
The National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers recommends a robust system of family caregiver supports leveraging the strengths of community-based organizations and volunteers to ensure community living is a reality for all. Community Care Corps, a national program funded by the U.S. Administration for Community Living, supports innovative programs providing nonmedical volunteer assistance to family caregivers, older adults and persons with disabilities to maintain their independence at home. This session highlights three different grantee programs focused on transportation, respite and social connection. Explore how these programs uplift volunteers, care recipients and family caregivers; build trust in communities with limited resources; and foster dignity, accessibility and mutual growth.
Presenters:
Christian Flores, Program Manager, USAging, Washington, DC
Sara Paige, Project Manager, Oasis Institute, St. Louis, MO
[biography]
Sara is the Project Manager for Community Care Corps and has been with Oasis for eight years. Prior, Sara was a Project Coordinator focusing on falls prevention programs in the St. Louis area and across Missouri. Sara has 30+ years of experience as an OT in numerous areas of care.
W38) AAA and SUA Collaboration to Improve Outcomes for Older Adults
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
The State Unit on Aging/AAA foundation is rooted in the Older Americans Act regulations and requirements; however, true success comes from communication, collaboration and aligning mission, vision and priorities. Leaders from Georgia’s Aging Network will share tips and activities that it embeds in the development process of its state plan on aging and area plan on aging, as well as ongoing communication strategies that have helped to strengthen the Aging Network across Georgia.
Presenters:
Becky Kurtz, Managing Director, Aging & Independence Services and Director, Area Agency on Aging, Atlanta Regional Commission, Atlanta, GA
[biography]
Becky Kurtz, JD, leads service delivery and prepares for the future of the rapidly aging metro Atlanta region, as the director of the area agency on aging within the Atlanta Regional Commission. Each year, tens of thousands of people receive services through ARC’s Empowerline, a trusted source for connecting resources.
MaryLea Boatwright Quinn, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Division of Aging Services, Georgia Department of Human Services, Atlanta, GA
[biography]
MaryLea is a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience serving older adults in direct practice and macro practice across many home & community based settings. She currently leads Georgia's state unit on aging as the Assistant Deputy Commissioner of the Division of Aging Services.
Melissa Armstrong, CEO, Legacy Link Area Agency on Aging, Oakwood, GA
[biography]
Melissa Armstrong is the CEO of Legacy Link, a nonprofit Area Agency on Aging. Melissa oversees comprehensive care for thousands of clients within her region. Her extensive expertise is complemented by a Master of Social Work and graduate certificates in Nonprofit Management and Gerontology from the University of Georgia.
W39) From 911 to Advocacy: A Community Partnership Strengthening Elder Justice in Long-Term Care
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Howard County’s Ombudsman Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Outreach Initiative is a nationally recognized model for advancing advocacy and elder justice by transforming first responders into partners in identifying, reporting and preventing abuse or neglect in long-term-care (LTC) settings. Launched in 2025, the initiative trained 82 EMS personnel to recognize red flags, understand key regulatory differences across LTC environments and report concerns accurately through proper channels. Early outcomes include increased abuse reporting, reductions in unnecessary 911 calls and stronger cross-agency collaboration that enhances resident safety and reduces system strain. This session will demonstrate how strategic partnerships between Ombudsman programs, EMS and regulatory entities can strengthen local elder justice systems and build a more coordinated community safety net. Attendees will leave with practical tools and guidance to replicate.
Presenter:
Katy Lee, Ombudsman Program Manager, Office on Aging & Independence, Columbia, MD
[biography]
Katy champions long-term care residents in Howard County, leading initiatives that earned a national recognition award from NACo. She trained fire/rescue professionals to identify and report abuse, strengthened safeguards for vulnerable populations, and continues to advance resident rights through impactful advocacy, systemic improvements, and community education.
W41) Securing Opioid Settlement Funds: Strategies to Support Kinship and Grandfamilies
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
The Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio, Inc. (AOoA), Kinship Navigator Program partnered with Lucas County Children Services (LCCS) to secure opioid settlement funds through the OneOhio Recovery Foundation. This two-year grant (2025–2026) supports the expansion of the LCCS Family Search & Engagement and START Programs, as well as additional services through the AOoA Kinship Navigator Program for families affected by opioid misuse. The partnership enables the Kinship Navigator team to provide the evidence-based Guiding Good Choices® workshop; publish
Empowering Kinship Families: Resources for Opioid Recovery & Prevention;
and launch a new podcast series,
Roots of Resilience: Empowering Kinship Families Amid Opioid Recovery.
Attendees will gain insight into obtaining opioid settlement funds and strategies to strengthen kinship and grandfamilies.
Presenters:
Arcelia Armstrong, Director Caregiver Support and Kinship Navigator Programs, Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio, Inc., Toledo, OH
[biography]
Arcelia Armstrong licensed social worker with over 25 years clinical experience. At the Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio, she is Director of Caregiver Support and Kinship Navigator Programs. She has a B.S. in Social Work from Tuskegee University and Certificate in Executive Leadership from Center for Nonprofit Resources.
Melissa McCartt, Supervisor of Family Search & Engagement, Lucas County Children Services, Toledo, OH
[biography]
Melissa McCartt, MSW, LSW, is Supervisor of Family Search and Engagement at Lucas County Children Services. With 20 years in child welfare, she leads Kinnect to Family efforts, is EMDR-trained, and serves on the OhioKAN Advisory Council, advocating for meaningful family connections to support child well-being.
Marsha Rose, Kinship Navigator Program Supervisor, Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio, Inc., Toledo, OH
[biography]
Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in Ohio and Michigan and graduate of the University of Toledo. Over 25 years of experience in areas including Developmental Disabilities, Older Adults, Mental Health, Substance Use Disorders, Case Management, Specialized Information and Referral Services, Medicaid Waiver Healthcare Compliance and Oversight, and Medical Practice Management.
W42) Improving Brain Health in American Indian and Alaska Native Communities
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
In this session, the International Association for Indigenous Aging (IA2) will provide instruction on using culturally adapted resources to promote brain health in American Indian and Alaska Native communities while highlighting the connection between cognitive wellness and elder justice. Participants will learn how these resources are developed; best practices for implementing them in Tribal communities; and how honoring the history, rights, cultures, sovereignty and inherent value of American Indian and Alaska Native peoples supports both brain health and the safety, dignity and protection of elders. Addressing both brain health and elder justice improves the lives of Tribal elders, their families and the overall health of the communities in which they live.
Presenter:
Megan Dicken, Public Health and Aging Associate, International Association for Indigenous Aging, Atlanta, GA
[biography]
Megan Dicken is the Public Health and Aging Associate at the International Association for Indigenous Aging and an enrolled member of the United Houma Nation of Louisiana. Having cared for grandparents living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, Megan has personal insights into the prevention and treatment of ADRD.
W43) Multi-Sector Plans: From Idea to Implementation to Impact
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
California is at the midpoint of implementing its 10-year blueprint for an age- and ability-friendly state known as the Master Plan for Aging. As the Plan evolves, and state and local leadership transitions, California is evaluating its success to date with an eye toward sustainability. Hear from experts on what is essential—in any Administration—to a comprehensive aging and disability plan.
Presenters:
Lori Peterson, Strategy, Cross-Sector Partnership Development, Facilitation, Collaborative Consulting, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Lori Peterson has 25 years of experience in the healthcare industry and a background in psychology and organizational development, Lori’s expertise ranges from business development to strategic partnerships, cross-sector collaborative development to multi-stakeholder facilitation, new service design to change activation and implementation.
Sarah Steenhausen, Deputy Director-Policy, Research, and Equity, California Department of Aging, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
Sarah serves as Deputy Director of the Division of Policy, Research & Engagement. She collaborates with state departments & stakeholders in developing policy and research impacting older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers to advance system change and realize the goals of California’s Master Plan for Aging.
Susan DeMarois, Director, California Department of Aging, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
Susan DeMarois, Director the California Department of Aging (CDA), oversees a network of 33 AAAs, 11 Caregiver Resource Centers, nearly 350 Medicaid HCBS programs, and the LTC Ombudsman program and its 8,500+ licensed facilities. CDA also has primary responsibility for implementing Governor Gavin Newsom's Master Plan for Aging.
W45) Aging With Disability: Building Respectful, Welcoming and Accessible Communities
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Across the United States, older adults are increasingly aging with disabilities or acquiring them as they age, yet many aging and disability systems continue to operate in silos. This session explores how San Francisco is modeling a disability-forward approach that can inform national practice. Presenters will highlight the Disability Cultural Center, the Age and Disability Affordable Housing Implementation Plan, Age & Disability Friendly SF, and new approaches to designing accessible public spaces, illustrated through major capital investments. The session will examine ableism, belonging and what it takes for communities to embrace disability as a natural part of the aging journey. Attendees will gain practical strategies they can adapt to ensure that AAA and Title VI programs across the country are respectful, welcoming and accessible.
Presenters:
Christina Mills, Executive Director, California Association of Area Agencies on Aging, Benicia, CA
Eli Gelardin, Director, San Francisco Office on Disability and Accessibility (formerly the Mayor's Office on Disability), San Francisco, CA
Kelly Dearman, Executive Director, San Francisco Disability and Aging Services, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Executive Director, San Francisco Department of Disability and Aging Services (DAS). Kelly leads the City’s integrated aging and disability service system, supporting independence, dignity, and community living for more than 70,000 older adults and disabled residents.
W46) HealthRHYTHMS Group Empowerment Drumming for Social Connection and Health
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
HealthRHYTHMS is an evidence-based recreational music-making wellness program that involves group empowerment drumming. The program brings people together for fun and enjoyment. Peer-reviewed published studies have demonstrated that the program reduces depression, anxiety, tension, improves communication, builds camaraderie and reduces stress. Information will also be provided about opportunities to become a trained facilitator and for data collection.
Presenters:
Anne Wildman, Associate Director-Aging and Disability Services, Northern Kentucky Area Development District, Florence, OH
[biography]
Anne Wildman, LSW is Associate Director-Aging and Disability Services at Northern Kentucky Area Development District. She has a demonstrated history of working in the government administration industry. She is skilled nonprofit organizations, government, program evaluation, case management, and team building. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work.
Arlene de Silva, CEO, Cincinnati Music & Wellness Coalition, Cincinnati, OH
[biography]
Arlene de Silva is the Founder and CEO of Cincinnati Music & Wellness Coalition (CMWC), the nation's first community-wide recreational music making coalition. Prior to founding CMWC, she worked for the Area Agency on Aging in Cincinnati serving as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer.
W47) Investing in Aging: Strategies, Partnerships and Opportunities
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
It is often noted that roughly 2 percent of philanthropic funding in the United States is directed toward efforts to improve the lives of older adults, though a reliable source for this figure remains difficult to confirm. Grantmakers In Aging, a community of funders mobilizing money and ideas for a better later life for all, believes all funders can maximize their impact by considering investments across the lifespan. This session will provide an overview of the aging philanthropy landscape, highlighting key trends and funding priorities. A panel of funders will discuss their current funding strategies, including partnerships with AAAs and other community-based organizations. We will conclude with a forward-looking conversation on strategies to attract more funders to aging services and strengthen cross-sector collaboration for greater impact.
Presenter:
Emily Hinsey, Chief Program Officer, Grantmakers In Aging, White Plains, NY
[biography]
Emily serves as the Chief Program Officer for Grantmakers In Aging (GIA), a network of _x000D_
funders mobilizing money and ideas to strengthen policies, programs, and resources for all _x000D_
of us as we age.
W48) Aligning Ohio’s AAA Network for Integrated Care: Early Lessons and Collaboration
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Ohio is undertaking a major transformation of integrated care for individuals eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, moving to a statewide, phased rollout of a Fully Integrated Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (FIDE SNP) model in 2026. AAAs drew on more than a decade of experience in Ohio’s CMS Duals Financial Alignment Demonstration to prepare for this transition. Through a coordinated effort involving AAA directors, association leadership, workgroups and health plan partners, the network developed shared approaches, clarified roles, and strengthened relationships ahead of implementation. This session will highlight early lessons, challenges and opportunities from this collaborative preparation process and offer practical strategies that AAAs can apply when navigating large-scale integrated care changes in their own states.
Presenters:
Angela Weaver, Director of Regulatory Affairs, Ohio Association of Health Plans, Columbus, OH
[biography]
Angela joined OAHP in 2013 after serving as the Legislative Liaison for the Ohio Department of Medicaid and the Governor’s Office of Health Transformation. She served in various positions in the Ohio Senate for almost five years. Angela received her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science degree from Denison University.
Beth Kowalczyk, Chief Policy Officer, Ohio Association of Area Agencies on Aging, Columbus, OH
[biography]
Chief Policy Officer - Ohio Association of Area Agencies on Aging (o4a) and member of City Council in Worthington, Ohio. Bachelor of Arts, Kent State University. Juris Doctorate, New York University School of Law. Admitted to Ohio Bar in 1993.
Suzanne Burke, Chief Executive Officer, Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio, Blue Ash, OH
[biography]
Suzanne Burke is Chief Executive Officer of Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio. She has served in this position since 2005. Suzanne has a master’s degree in Business Administration (Marketing) from Xavier University and a bachelor’s degree in Marketing with a minor in Gerontology from Miami University.
11:45 AM
1:00 PM
Networking Lunch in the Tradeshow
1:00 PM
2:00 PM
Workshops
1:00 PM
2:00 PM
Workshops
W50) Building the Texas Hub Collaborative to Advance Social-Health Integration
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Texas Healthy at Home and Community Assistance and Transition Care of Houston will share how two community care hubs (CCHs) joined forces to create the Texas Hub Collaborative (THC), a statewide effort designed to strengthen social-health integration and expand coordinated services for older adults and people with disabilities. Using the six nationally recognized CCH domains, THC developed a shared, advanced hub model in partnership with more than 20 Texas AAAs. In addition to the hub perspective, the Harris County AAA director will share how the process unfolded from the AAA standpoint. Attendees will gain tangible tools and replicable strategies to create and enhance partnerships and coordination strategies. This interactive workshop will help participants apply lessons learned to their local context.
Presenters:
Christina Bartha, Chief Executive Officer, Texas Healthy at Home, North Richland Hills, TX
[biography]
Christina Bartha, CEO of Texas Healthy at Home, leads statewide efforts to strengthen community health and aging services. With expertise in partnership and coalition building, she co-leads aging initiatives and advances integrated care systems across Texas. She holds a master’s in gerontology and is a certified yoga and meditation teacher.
Janice Sparks, CATCH Executive Director, CATCH Greater Houston Community Care Hub, Houston, TX
[biography]
Dr. Sparks is an accomplished healthcare executive and gerontology expert with over 15 years of integrated care leadership, specializing in healthcare innovation, cross-sector partnerships, and large-scale program development to build sustainable systems that improve health and social outcomes for diverse communities.
Paula Johnson, Bureau Chief, Harris County Area Agency on Aging/Houston Health Department, Houston, TX
[biography]
Paula Johnson is the Bureau Chief for the Harris County Area Agency on Aging (HCAAA), an agency imbedded within the Houston Health Department. The HCAAA's programs are tailored to meet the social, nutritional, educational, and logistical needs of all Harris County residents aged 60 and above.
W51) Puzzle Pieces and Pathways: Making Sense of Caregiver Navigation
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Join USAging and partners for an energizing session exploring approaches to enhance the value and impact of your Title III E caregiver navigation services! Now in its second year, the Caregiver Navigation Services project is boosting the Aging Network’s capacity to connect caregivers with the right resources at the right time. Explore the core components of effective navigation models, learn what’s driving successful AAA partnerships and gain early insights from the field. The team will also introduce practical, outcome-focused tools you can use to demonstrate impact and elevate your program’s story. Whether you're refining an existing model or building one from the ground up, this session will equip you with strategies to enhance support for caregivers in your community.
Presenters:
Cheryl Clark, Director, Caregiver Support Program, Philadelphia Corporation for Aging, Philadelphia, PA
[biography]
Cheryl Clark-Woods, M.S.W. has more than 35 years of experience working with seniors, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers in the Philadelphia community. She is dedicated to bringing awareness and supporting the well-being of caregivers by connecting them to services, supports, and resources to enrich the caregiving experience.
Kate Singer, Senior Research Associate, Scripps Gerontology Center, Miami University, Oxford, OH
[biography]
Kate Singer, PhD, MA is a Senior Research Associate at Scripps Gerontology Center at Miami University. She works on a variety of projects with many centered around evaluating care experiences Outside of this work her research interests include examining wellbeing outcomes for family caregivers and people living alone with dementia.
Christina Edwardson, Family Caregiver Specialist, Area Agency on Aging of the Coastal Bend, Corpus Christi, TX
[biography]
A passionate caregiver advocate with 13+ years of experience in education, support services, and community outreach. Known for expertise and genuine compassion, Christina is a Texas A&M–Corpus Christi graduate, wife, and proud mom of three boys—committed to empowering families through knowledge and care.
W52) Advocacy in Action: Proven Strategies and Tools to Influence Policymakers and Advance Aging Services
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Looking for ways to improve the efficacy of your agency’s advocacy? Two AAAs will share their time-tested strategies and success stories of proactively building strong relationships with elected officials and staff, crafting advocacy messages that work, using data and stories, and tapping the AAA advisory council to harness the grassroots power in the community and more. Coordinated, persistent advocacy can shape policy, protect vulnerable populations and expand resources for older adults—join this workshop to refresh your advocacy toolbox and get some inspiration on what’s possible!
Presenters:
Christina Marneris, Community Services Director, Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities of Southwest Washington, Vancouver, WA
[biography]
Christina is a seasoned Program Management professional with a passion for driving meaningful impact—both within organizations and across the communities they serve. Known for aligning mission-driven goals with operational excellence, She takes pride in transforming vision into reality through successful program execution.
Amanda Sears, Chief Community Impact Officer, The Senior Alliance, Dearborn, MI
[biography]
Amanda Sears is Director of Planning and Projects at The Senior Alliance. With over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Amanda has a passion for leading initiatives, building community coalitions, and developing programs that expand access to high quality services for older adults and caregivers.
Jason Maciejewski, Chief Executive Officer, The Senior Alliance, Dearborn, MI
[biography]
Jason Maciejewski, M.P.A., is Chief Executive Officer of The Senior Alliance since 2021, previously serving as the agency’s Deputy Director and Chief Advocacy & Planning Officer. He also has thirteen years as a Government Relations Manager and legislative staffer. Jason serves as a Washtenaw County Commissioner, first elected in 2018.
W53) Supporting Families With Unique Needs Through End-of-Life Care Planning
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
This session explores Pima Council on Aging's work providing tailored advance care planning assistance for older adults with different cultural perspectives and varying cognitive decision-making abilities. Discover how bilingual services protect care recipients’ dignity while empowering informal caregivers through cultural and linguistic acccessibility. Discuss capacity and its limitations for people living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias and their informal caregivers through sensitive approaches that honor varied family values, traditions and needs. Attendees will discover innovative strategies for normalizing cross-cultural end-of-life conversations, identify unique family caregiving dynamics, and how to adapt sensitive and responsive care plans. Learn how to integrate client-centered end-of-life planning and informed consent to empower and honor all older adults and create more cooperative, compassionate and connected caregiving experiences.
Presenters:
Deb Seng, Resources and Supports Director, Pima Council on Aging, Tucson, AZ
[biography]
Deb Seng serves as Pima Council on Aging’s Resources and Supports Director, and has worked with PCOA since 2019. Deb innovates programming to meet client needs and ensure excellent service delivery with a diverse 25-year history of caring for people.
Harbhajan Khalsa, Health and Wellness Director, PCOA, Tucson, AZ
[biography]
Harbhajan Khalsa serves as the Pima Council on Aging’s Director for Health and Wellness and has seven years of experience at PCOA. She started her career in behavioral health then transitioned to serving older adults at PCOA in 2018.
Lisa Reams, Vice President, Programs & Services, Pima Council on Aging, Tucson, AZ
[biography]
Lisa Reams has served as the Vice President of Programs & Services for Pima Council on Aging, the Area Agency on Aging in Tucson, AZ, since 2017. She has successfully started and led community-based programming for over 30 years as a volunteer, mediator, program manager, and executive leader.
W54) ACL Discussion Session for Regions 4, 6 and 7
Note: This session is only open to AAAs and Title VI programs.
Join your AAA/Title VI peers in your regions for an open dialogue with U.S. Administration for Community Living senior leaders. Bring your questions, concerns and successes from the AAA/Title VI perspective to share with our federal partners.
Presenters:
Adam Mosey, Special Assistant, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Adam Mosey currently serves as a Special Assistant at the Administration on Aging, one of ACL’s programmatic Centers, where he works on key policy and program issues related to the Older Americans Act. He also concurrently serves as a Sergeant First Class in the Army National Guard.
Alice Kelsey, Deputy Director, Administration on Aging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Alice Kelsey is the Deputy Director for the Administration on Aging. She has 15 years’ experience in the Aging Network and holds a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs.
Kari Benson, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Kari Benson serves as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging for the Administration on Aging. Kari has spent her entire career in the aging network and holds degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota.
W55) Building Trust Through Connection: Outreach for Aging Populations
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Older adults are one of the fastest growing and most unique populations in the United States, yet many continue to feel overlooked, isolated or mistrustful of service systems. This workshop introduces a practical, evidence-based model for strengthening engagement with older adults through trust-building, culturally responsive outreach and age-friendly marketing. Using real case studies, visuals and data from outreach efforts, participants will explore how trauma-informed communication, intentional partnerships and thoughtful design can transform outreach from a visibility effort into a meaningful connection strategy. Attendees will learn the P.L.A.N. Outreach Framework—Preparation, Location, Audience and Needs—as introduced in Building Trust Through Connection, and understand how this model increases participation, improves service uptake and reduces mistrust across all aging communities. Participants will leave with ready-to-use tools.
Presenter:
Jennifer Scott, Director, Area Agency on Aging Capital Area, Austin, TX
W56) Learn About Dementia Friends USA—and Become a Dementia Friend!
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
More than 7 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, and most remain at home with support from a care partner. People with dementia often need simple, everyday help to stay engaged in their communities. Dementia Friends empowers individuals to recognize, respond to, and support those living with dementia by increasing understanding and encouraging small, meaningful actions. Dementia Friends USA is a movement changing how people think, act, and talk about dementia. This session will cover the basics of dementia, communication and engagement tips; the five key messages of Dementia Friends; and how to bring the program to your community.
Presenters:
Jennifer Hammer, Assistant Director, Dementia Friendly America, USAging, Washington, DC
Mary Ek, Director, Dementia Friendly America and Community Care Corps, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Mary Ek is the Program Director for Dementia Friendly America, a national initiative administered by USAging. Through her work, Mary supports dementia-friendly communities and Dementia Friends administrators by providing technical assistance, facilitating webinars and collaboration among stakeholders and managing the development and sharing of dementia-resources.
W57) Scaling Community-Clinical Integration Through Community Care Hubs
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
This session will discuss timely and significant opportunities to scale evidence-based prevention and whole-person health services through strengthened community-clinical integration. Community care hubs (CCHs) offer a proven infrastructure for improving outcomes and reducing institutional care by connecting health care entities with networks of local community-based organizations such as AAAs, Centers for Independent Living and other specialty community health providers. The US Administration for Community Living will present why scaling community-clinical integration through CCHs is a high priority and highlight federal investments to support this work. Two advanced CCHs will discuss partnerships with health care partners, collaboration models, populations served, impact achieved and the business case.
Presenters:
Janice Sparks, CATCH Executive Director, CATCH Greater Houston Community Care Hub, Houston, TX
[biography]
Dr. Sparks is an accomplished healthcare executive and gerontology expert with over 15 years of integrated care leadership, specializing in healthcare innovation, cross-sector partnerships, and large-scale program development to build sustainable systems that improve health and social outcomes for diverse communities.
Kathy Vesley, President & CEO, Bay Aging, Urbanna, VA
[biography]
Kathy Vesley is the President and CEO of Bay Aging, a nonprofit Area Agency on Aging (AAA), and VAAACares®, Virginia’s Community Care Hub. VAAACares® is a nationally recognized successful hub that contracts with multiple health plans, health systems, the VA, and partners with a variety of CBOs to provide
Will Bleser, Innovation and Strategy Lead, Whole-Person Health, Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Will leads ACL’s strategy to scale innovative whole-person health and evidence-based prevention programs and infrastructure. Will holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Health Policy and Administration and Demography from Pennsylvania State University and a Master of Science in Public Health from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
W58) Self-Directed Transportation—Complete Planning and Implementation to Fill Rural Transportation Gaps
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Area Agency on Aging of North Idaho saw a need to provide more effective transportation to rural areas. Using the same basic format utilized for other self-directed programs the AAA designed a program that provides seniors with transportation to medical appointments, shopping and social events. Those providing service are selected by the client and stay with the client throughout the outing. This session will include the process of petitioning private funding, defining the service provider as an independent contractor, tax implications and the importance of a liability statement to protect the State Unit on Aging, AAA and client.
Presenters:
Janet Miller, Program Specialist, Idaho Commission on Aging, Boise, ID
[biography]
Janet Miller is a Program Specialist with the Idaho Commission on Aging where she oversees six statewide programs. Prior to serving the seniors of Idaho she spent twenty years in marketing for healthcare and non-profit organizations. Janet completed her Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing at Boise State
Pamela Pearson, Senior Program Coordinator, Area Agency on Aging of North Idaho, Coeur d'Alene, ID
[biography]
Pam Pearson has been a passionate Idaho public servant for 25 years, managing a variety of social and economic programs.  10 years of live-in caregiver experience, and navigating a vast, fragmented care system continues to fuel her desire to implement effective, innovative and easily accessible services for Idaho seniors.
W59) Life Is a Highway: Linking Mobility to Meaningful Connection
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Transportation is a lifeline to community, independence, and purpose. This session will explore how access to reliable, person-centered transportation reduces social isolation and promotes engagement among older adults. Staff from USAging’s social connections and Transportation and Mobility programs will share recent research and national initiatives linking transportation to social connection. A local AAA will offer a community perspective, highlighting innovative strategies that use transportation to help older adults stay active and involved. Participants will gain practical insights and replicable ideas for integrating transportation into efforts that strengthen social connectedness and improve well-being.
Presenters:
Meredith Hanley, Program Director, Commit to Connect, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Meredith Hanley serves as a Program Director overseeing USAging’s work relation to social connection, caregiving services and supports and kinship care.
Lina Nasr, Older Adult Nutrition and Community Improvement Specialist, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Lina holds a Public Health Master’s degree and has worked in the field of health behavior and education for over 20 years. She has been with the County of San Diego since 2013, and currently provides Community Engagement sessions that empower low-income participants to make sustainable improvements in their community.
David Somers, Senior Research Associate, Transportation and Mobility, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Staff
W61) Boots on the Ground: Advancing Veteran-Directed Care Through Collaboration and Innovation
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical insights from two successful Veteran-Directed Care (VDC) programs in Wisconsin and Illinois! Our presenters will share proven strategies for delivering VDC services, both directly and through the Hub-and-Spoke model, along with best practices and lessons learned that attendees can apply to their own programs. After these short presentations, an interactive discussion will be held for attendees to ask questions, exchange ideas and share experiences. This is a chance to connect with peers, discover innovative approaches and strengthen impact for veterans and their families. Join us and be part of a collaborative conversation that will help shape the future of VDC programs!
Presenters:
Lucinda Hurt, Manager of Access Services and Community Programs, AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois, Lombard, IL
[biography]
Lucinda Hurt is the Manager of Access Services and Community Programs at AgeGuide, Northeastern Illinois. Lucinda has over 25 years of experience working in the aging network both in long term care and community-based services. While at AgeGuide, Lucinda’s focus includes supporting network wide program delivery and quality improvement.
Lisa Drouin, VA Programs Manager, Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources, Madison, WI
[biography]
Lisa Drouin is currently the VA Programs Manager for Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources. During her 16 years in this position, Lisa has established VDC programs with multiple VAs. Lisa has a Bachelor of Psychology and Master of Social Work from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
W62) Bridging Aging and Disability Networks: California’s Experience
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are living longer and most are living with aging caregivers. While individuals with IDD have similar aging-related needs, they also have some unique support needs that require cross-sector innovation and capacity building to improve system navigation and access to services. As part of Master Plan on Aging, California is strengthening state and local partnerships to bridge supports across aging and disability service systems. Learn about how California is leveraging the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities Bridging Aging and Disability Network initiative and the Direct Care Workforce Strategies Center State Advancement Lab to plan for improved service coordination and develop training focused on the needs and resources available to aging individuals with IDD.
Presenters:
Anson Houghton, Program Administrator, Area 4 Agency on Aging, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
• Anson Houghton has over 25 years of experience working with older adults and people with disabilities. Working with the Agency on Aging Area 4 (AAA4), Anson oversees their case management team, five Aging and Disability Resource Connections and develops programming outside of the agency’s traditional Older American Act funding.
Alison Giannini, Aging Services Branch Manager, Department of Developmental Services, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
Alison Giannini serves as the Aging Services Branch Manager of the Statewide Clinical Services Division at the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). She works to inform and actionize policies and coordinate DDS’ efforts to elevate and support the needs of older adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Ana Acton, Assistant Deputy Director, California Department of Aging, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
Ana Acton serves as the Assistant Deputy Director of the Division of Policy, Research, and Engagement at the California Department of Aging. In this role, she collaborates with state departments and stakeholders to advance the Master Plan for Aging and policy impacting older adults, people with disabilities caregivers.
W63) Future-Ready AAAs: Scenario Planning Tools to Strengthen Strategy and Resilience
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Scenario planning helps build organizational capacity to face uncertainty by exploring multiple plausible futures, supporting proactive planning rather than reactive responses. This interactive session introduces a practical scenario planning framework, including four classic scenario types: growth, collapse, constraint and transformation. Participants will apply the method to their context, identify early indicators (signals) that suggest a scenario may be unfolding and outline strategic responses that strengthen readiness. Through examples grounded in aging services, participants will learn how scenario planning strengthens decision-making and generates new ideas. Attendees will leave with tools they can immediately use to guide strategy in their agencies and communities.
Presenters:
Lori Peterson, Strategy, Cross-Sector Partnership Development, Facilitation, Collaborative Consulting, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Lori Peterson has 25 years of experience in the healthcare industry and a background in psychology and organizational development, Lori’s expertise ranges from business development to strategic partnerships, cross-sector collaborative development to multi-stakeholder facilitation, new service design to change activation and implementation.
Miranda Kunkel, Consultant, Collaborative Consulting, Cincinnati, OH
[biography]
Miranda Kunkel is a consultant at Collaborative Consulting where she specializes in mixed-methods research, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement. She is passionate about improving programs and services for older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers. Miranda holds a Master's in Social Work and PhD in Social Gerontology.
W64) The Aging Network's Support of Kinship Families: No-Cost Tips for Starting or Enhancing Services
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Nationwide, grandparents, other relatives and close family friends raise more than 2.5 million children whose biological parents are unable to do so for various reasons. While research shows that both kin caregivers and the children they raise benefit from being in “kinship families,” studies also indicate that these families are disproportionately impacted by financial instability, disability and trauma and that the well-being of all family members improves when they receive appropriate services. This workshop will highlight recent research on how AAAs and Title VI programs currently support kinship families and offer guidance on starting new kinship services or enhancing existing ones. Attendees also will hear how the no-cost technical assistance that one AAA received from the Grandfamilies & Kinship Support Network helped them grow their kinship services.
Presenters:
Ana Beltran, Director, Generations United, Washington, DC
[biography]
Ana Beltran is an attorney and director of the Grandfamilies & Kinship Support Network: A National Technical Assistance Center at Generations United. For over twenty years, Beltran has worked on the array of issues impacting grandfamilies, providing technical assistance and training to state agencies, legislatures, nonprofit organizations, and legal providers.
Lina Nasr, Older Adult Nutrition and Community Improvement Specialist, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Lina holds a Public Health Master’s degree and has worked in the field of health behavior and education for over 20 years. She has been with the County of San Diego since 2013, and currently provides Community Engagement sessions that empower low-income participants to make sustainable improvements in their community.
Leland Kiang, Program Manager, Grandfamilies and Kinship Support Network: A National Technical Assistance Center, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Leland Kiang manages USAging’s role in the Grandfamilies and Kinship Support Network: A National Technical Assistance Center, which is funded by the Administration for Community Living and led by Generations United, to increase the capacity of states, territories, tribes and community-based organizations (CBOs) to support kinship/grandfamilies.
W65) Smart Home Accessibility Solutions for Falls Prevention and Aging in Place
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
How can we leverage technology to make homes safer and more accessible? Innovative smart home devices and other assistive technologies (AT) expand ways to make homes accessible, prevent falls, and support aging in place. In this workshop facilitated by the U.S. Administration for Community Living's Housing and Services Resource Center (HSRC), WellWise Services AAA shares how their successful AT program helps older adults and family caregivers access and integrate AT into their homes. The Utah AT Program highlights strategies on how AAAs can partner with state AT programs to help clients adopt AT. In a facilitated discussion, attendees will share their AAAs’ strategies and partnerships and suggest practical steps to enhance AT utilization. HSRC will also identify key resources for attendees about AT to promote housing stability and aging in place.
Presenters:
Bora Lee, Program Director, Utah Assistive Technology Program, Logan, UT
[biography]
Will add
Katie Clark, Policy Analyst, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Katie is a Policy Analyst at the Administration for Community Living and leads the Commit to Connect Initiative, a cross-sector initiative promoting social engagement and connection.
Nichole Baker, Chief Services Officer, WellWise Services, Jackson, MI
[biography]
Nichole Baker is the Chief Services Officer at WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging, in South Central Michigan. Nichole leads program development, advocacy, and grant-funded initiatives, with a focus on community planning and systems analysis. She’s served in a variety of roles with area nonprofits providing clinical supervision and direct community services.
2:00 PM
3:00 PM
Networking Break in the Tradeshow
3:00 PM
4:00 PM
Roundtables
3:00 PM
4:00 PM
Roundtables
RT03) Advocating in Complicated Times
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Join USAging’s policy team and your peers for a conversation about how to protect your strong and appropriate advocacy role under the Older Americans Act, despite a highly charged political climate. Bring your examples of successful advocacy techniques, messaging and campaigns!
Presenters:
Amy Gotwals, Chief, Public Policy and External Affairs, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
In her role, Amy leads USAging's public policy, advocacy, communications, external relations and membership relations activities. Representing local aging agencies, Amy serves as the lead in outreach to Congress and the Administration to ensure that needed resources and support services are available to older Americans and their caregivers.
Olivia Umoren Ezeuko, Director, Public Policy and Advocacy, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
In her role, Olivia directs the association’s legislative affairs and advocacy efforts to advance federal policies that address the needs of an aging America, plays a vital role in the development of USAging’s policy positions and priorities, and represents USAging in meetings with congressional staff and administration officials.
3:00 PM
3:30 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
3:00 PM
3:30 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
FT01) Fostering Independence Through Innovative Transportation Programming
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Access to transportation remains a significant challenge for older adults and individuals with disabilities across Ohio. The Area Agency on Aging 3 addresses this need through its Find A Ride program, which leverages grant funding from the Ohio Department of Transportation Office of Transit, Senior and Community Services and local match dollars to provide both medical and nonmedical transportation. Find A Ride supports older adults and individuals with disabilities living in rural communities by offering no-cost transportation when no other options are available. This vital service helps ensure that community members can access appointments, essential services and daily activities safely and reliably.
Presenter:
Stefanie Motter, Mobility Manager, Area Agency on Aging 3, Lima, OH
[biography]
Stefanie Motter has been the mobility manager for AAA3 since July of 2021. As mobility manager, she assists older individuals and those with disabilities, in a primarily rural region, understand and gain access to their transportation options. Additionally, she supervises the Find A Ride and PASSPORT transportation programs at AAA3.
FT03) Future Fraud—Health Care Scams Related to New Technology
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
In this session, representatives from the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) will discuss health care fraud related to new technology. The adoption of AI and advances in medical care have led to complex scams. The presentation will include examples of high-tech care now being provided in hospice and home health and will include emerging trends, such as new skin substitutes and virtual care. Remote monitoring will be discussed, including AI-based observation used in lieu of health care personnel. New medical identity theft strategies will be presented, including a detailed look at social engineering and the use of AI by criminals. The presentation will also include new products and processes created by the SMP for community partners, aging network professionals and the public.
Presenters:
Jennifer Trussell, Fraud Prevention Consultant, Senior Medicare Patrol Resource Center, Knoxville, TN
[biography]
Jennifer Trussell retired from a 35-year career with HHS-OIG as the Special Agent in Charge of the Investigations Branch and Senior Advisor. She began her law enforcement career in 1989 with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. Jennifer has a master’s degree in policy from Georgetown University.
Rebecca Kinney, Director, Office of Healthcare Information and Counseling, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
As ACL’s OHIC Director, Rebecca manages the administration of the Medicare focused programs and activities managed by ACL including the SHIP, SMP, and MIPPA programs. In this role, she provides oversight and direction to the OHIC team, state grantees, contractors and national centers established to support the OHIC grantees.
FT04) The Wandering Toolkit: Creating a Tribal Safety Net to Address Wandering Persons
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
This workshop will introduce a new community resource that helps families and tribal communities respond when an elder with memory loss or dementia goes missing. The Wandering Toolkit was created with input from Indigenous caregivers, health workers, law enforcement and first responders to provide practical steps for keeping elders safe while respecting cultural values. It offers simple tools and guides to help families and communities plan ahead and support each other if a wandering incident occurs. Through a combination of sharing information, storytelling, question and answer, and interactive dialogue, participants will learn how the toolkit was developed and strategies to adapt and use it in their own communities.
Presenters:
Megan Dicken, Public Health and Aging Associate, International Association for Indigenous Aging, Atlanta, GA
[biography]
Megan Dicken is the Public Health and Aging Associate at the International Association for Indigenous Aging and an enrolled member of the United Houma Nation of Louisiana. Having cared for grandparents living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, Megan has personal insights into the prevention and treatment of ADRD.
Philip Warnock, Executive Director, Oregon Association of Area Agencies on Aging and Disabilities, Salem, OR
FT05) Enhancing Innovative Caregiver Services and Supports With Limited Available Resources
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Across the country, organizations are finding creative ways to support family caregivers, but growing these efforts can be challenging, especially with limited funding. This Fast-Track Session will showcase inventive, budget-friendly models to expand caregiving initiatives. Through interactive discussion and practical examples, attendees will gain insights into successful program adaptations, tools for sustainable growth and actionable ideas to help innovate programs under financial constraints. Whether you’re launching a new program or enhancing an existing one, this session offers fresh perspectives and proven approaches to do more with less.
Presenters:
Christina Irving, Client Services Director, Family Caregiver Alliance, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Christina Irving is a licensed clinical social worker and the Client Services Director at Family Caregiver Alliance. She oversees the staff of the Bay Area Caregiver Resource Center who provide direct services to family caregivers, including assessment, counseling, education, and support. She has been with FCA for over 18 years.
Clairedine Matouba, Senior Program Manager, Innovations in Family Caregiver Services and Supports Initiative, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Clairedine Matouba joined USAging in July 2023 and serves as Senior Program Manager for the Innovations in Family Caregiver Services and Supports Initiative. She leads efforts to design, implement, and evaluate strategies that advance innovative caregiver services and strengthen supports across the Aging Network.
FT06) AAA Today: Presenting Your Area Plan in Engaging Ways
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Are you looking for a way to present your AAA's Area Plan in an engaging way? Hear about a talk-show format that has proven successful for the Marin County, CA, AAA. Attendees will learn how to develop and promote this type of forum, which meets Older Americans Act, State Units on Aging and public opening meeting laws and involves AAA advisory committees. Presenters will also share a screening of a talk show in which the host asks about AAA programs and plans. Scripts and suggested questions will be made available.
Presenters:
Amy Dietz, Senior Program Coordinator, Marin County AAA, San Rafael, CA
Camille Jolly, Area Agency on Aging Program Manager, Aging and Adult Services, County of Marin, San Rafael, CA
[biography]
Camille started her career as a social worker in Australia before landing in CA in 2005. Camille worked as a eligibility worker and supervisor before moving to Aging& Adult Services in 2014, where she worked as a supervisor, most recently moving to the AAA as a Program Manger in 2024.
FT07) Easily Create a Demographic Profile of Older Adults in Your Legislators Districts
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Are you looking to up your advocacy game? Imagine walking into a meeting with a legislator, equipped with visuals that illustrate the realities of adults ages 60+ in their specific district, including poverty rates, isolation, limited English proficiency, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program usage and more. Using common programs, we will walk you through how to easily collect and create visuals of this information effectively. Detailed demographic information, which is easily adaptable to all State and Federal legislative districts in AgeOptions’ service area, helps transform meetings with legislators by providing a natural springboard for conversation that highlights priority populations for AAAs and a key voting block for legislators.
Presenters:
Emma Kidder, Manager - Advocacy and Public Policy, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Emma Kidder, LCSW, MPH is a Manager of Advocacy and Public Policy. She holds a Master of Public Health and a Master in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Emma is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
Peter Byer, Planning and Advocacy Specialist, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
I am the Planning and Advocacy Specialist for AgeOptions, the Area Agency on Aging for suburban Cook County, IL. I am a licensed social worker with broad-based experience in research, public health, immigration, domestic violence and older adult services.
FT08) Wiser Choices for Healthy Aging: Adapting SNAP-Ed to Older Adults’ Needs
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
The Los Angeles County Aging and Disabilities Department administers the CalFresh Healthy Living (CFHL) Program for adults ages 60 and older, providing nutrition education and obesity-prevention services. Historically, CFHL offered the same evidence-based nutrition curriculum at all congregate meal sites, which delivered useful general information but did not fully address the different nutrition needs of each community. The new Wiser Dining pilot program, launched by the California Department of Aging, shifted to a client-centered approach by helping meal sites improve their policies, systems and environments to promote healthier experiences. Instead of a standardized curriculum, Wiser Dining creates site-specific plans based on participants’ priorities, ensuring each community receives tailored support to make healthy, informed choices.
Presenters:
Hripsime Mermeryan, Human Services Administrator I, Los Angeles County, Aging and Disabilities Department, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Hripsime Mermeryan is an Administrator with the Los Angeles County Area Agency on Aging since November 2025. Prior to joining the Elderly Nutrition Program, she served as Program Analyst overseeing Supportive Services, Linkages, and Legal Assistance programs. She also possesses 12 years of experience with the Program and Contracts Divisions.
Sheri Stanton, Community Services Analyst, County of Los Angeles Area Agency on Aging, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Sheri Stanton has been an Analyst with the County of Los Angeles Area Agency on Aging for the past 6 years. She works with Older Adult SNAP-Ed and Nutrition programs.
FT09) Equipping Facilitators for Behavioral Health Realities in EVB Chronic Disease Programs
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
You know your programs work—but many older adults don't enroll or disengage early because behavioral health needs go unsupported. You want to create a welcoming environment and boost attendance but aren't sure how to respond when concerns arise.
You're not alone—60% of chronic disease program facilitators have little to no behavioral health training, and 76% lack engagement strategies. Unsurprisingly, 98% want additional resources.
LECOM Health BRIDGES for Older Adults, an ACL-funded initiative, can help. In this session, we'll share national research findings and introduce BRIDGES—free trainings, toolkits, and resources that equip you to Recognize, Respond to, and Refer older adults with behavioral health concerns. We'll also share low-cost, ready-to-use outreach tools to increase chronic disease class attendance.
Presenters:
Danielle Hansen, Regional President of LECOM Health, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM), Erie, PA
[biography]
Dr. Hansen is a specialist in internal medicine and geriatrics with the LECOM Institute for Successful Living and Medical Associates of Erie, VP of Acute Care, Behavioral Health, and Quality at Millcreek Community Hospital, Medical Director for Medical Associates of Erie, and Clinical Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine at LECOM.
Meghan Kinter, Chief Strategic Growth Officer, LECOM Behavioral Health, Erie, PA
[biography]
Dr. Meghan Kinter is Chief Strategic Growth Officer at LECOM Behavioral Health and Project Manager for LECOM Health BRIDGES for Older Adults. With two decades of experience in strategy, marketing, and organizational leadership, she has led regional and national initiatives across cause-based, academic, and healthcare settings.
FT11) Meeting the Needs of People with IDD and Dementia: Strategies for Professionals
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Advances in medicine and technology are extending the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), but their longer lifespan also increases their risk of developing dementia. Some specific IDD also increase a person’s likelihood of developing dementia. Dementia presents differently in individuals with IDD, and the needs of people with IDD and dementia often call for unique skillsets among health care professionals and primary support providers. In this session, we will discuss various methods to identify and provide services to people with IDD who have dementia or are at risk of developing it. We will also present a selection of tools that professionals can share with families or other caregivers who work with these individuals.
Presenters:
Erin Long, Aging Services Program Specialist, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Coming soon
Katelyn Marschall, Research Public Health Analyst, RTI International, NY
[biography]
Katelyn Marschall is a research public health analyst at RTI International. Before joining RTI, she worked for the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. Ms. Marschall has expertise in the aging and disability space, with a focus on dementia, elder justice, and adult protective services in both government and community settings.
FT12) Pop-Up: It's Not a Jack-in-the-Box
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Across rural America, traditional senior centers are rapidly declining, leaving many older adults in small towns—some with populations under 500—with limited resources and isolated. Our agency took a bold step: we let go of the brick-and-mortar model and partnered with local organizations to bring Healthy Aging Pop-Up Meal Sites directly into these communities. Each site offers nutritious meals, health education, outreach and opportunities for social connection, all while maximizing limited Older Americans Act funding through creative local partnerships. The results are compelling—attendance and participant contributions are strong, and satisfaction levels continue to rise. This session will share the process, lessons learned and practical tools to help agencies replicate this model. Attendees will leave with strategies to identify community partners, launch cost-effective pop-up sites and expand access to healthy aging.
Presenters:
Anna Williams, Nutrition Team Lead Meals, Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, Inc, Waterloo, IA
[biography]
Anna Williams is the Meals Lead at NEI3A. She graduated from University of Iowa with a degree in Health and Human Physiology. She has over six years of experience in health, exercise and nutrition. She enjoys implementing innovative meal programs and strategies to help older adults access better nutrition.
Janet Buls, Director of Nutrition Services, Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, Inc., Waterloo, IA
[biography]
Janet Buls, Nutrition Director at Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, has over 25 years of experience in the aging network. With a degree in Family Services, she’s passionate about creating innovative programs and ensuring older adults have access to nutritious meals, always asking, "Why not?" to drive change.
FT13) Integrating Caregivers Into the Age-Friendly Ecosystem
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
How do we ensure that caregivers are seen and heard and no longer the “invisible backbone” of our long-term-care system? Solutions should not happen in silos! Join us for an interactive and imperative conversation guided by representatives from the Aging Network, health care and a social care service provider/family caregiver to strategize on innovative ways to partner to address gaps in family caregiver access and support. Presenters will share how cross-collaboration between AAAs and both health and social care within health care systems have promoted integration of caregivers into the age-friendly ecosystem, along with case studies to activate the discussion through breakout sessions. Breakout groups will be asked to consider their recommendations for collaboration to enhance caregiver integration and support.
Presenters:
Diane Slezak, President and CEO, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Diane Slezak is President and CEO of AgeOptions and the President of Illinois Association of AAA’s. She serves as a USAging Alternate Board member. She is known for her advocacy to establish programs to serve elders including recently, obtaining state funding to support caregivers.
Diane Mariani, Program Manager, Social Work and Community Health, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
[biography]
Diane Mariani is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a specialization in Gerontology (LCSW) and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). In her current role as Program Manager for the department of Social Work and Community Health at Rush, she oversees the Rush Caring for Caregivers program funded by
FT14) Compliance That Protects: Why Small Agencies Can’t Afford to Skip It
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
In today’s regulatory environment, even small agencies face increasing expectations to operate with transparency, accountability and integrity. This training session explains why a well-structured compliance program is not just a legal safeguard, but a strategic advantage. Designed specifically for small agencies with limited resources, the session will demonstrate practical, scalable steps for implementing or strengthening a compliance program without overwhelming staff or budgets. The session will highlight how consistent policies, clear reporting channels and staff training protect the agency’s reputation while promoting ethical decision-making at every level. Attendees will leave understanding how a strong compliance foundation supports long-term stability, enhances service quality and empowers the agency to grow confidently and responsibly.
Presenter:
Mary Steele, Vice President of Compliance and Oversight, Area Agency on Aging 3, Lima, OH
[biography]
Mary Steele, SWA - VP of Compliance and Oversight for Area Agency on Aging 3 - Ohio. In addition to her role as Compliance Officer, she oversees Staff Development, Provider Oversight, Procurement and Contracting. Mary has worked at AAA3 since 2007 within both Older Americans Act and Medicaid waiver programs.
3:45 PM
4:15 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
3:45 PM
4:15 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
FT15) Transit 101: An Age-Friendly Approach to Increase Confidence, Access and Independence
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Transit 101 is an innovative, highly interactive program designed by the Howard County Office on Aging and Independence in Maryland to increase older adults’ awareness and confidence when using public transportation. After community listening sessions revealed widespread misconceptions, Transit 101 was created to close knowledge gaps and reduce the hesitancy of riding the bus. The program combines brief presentations; partner resource tables; and a hands-on “Meet the Bus” experience that allows participants to meet drivers, explore different bus options and practice boarding. Attendees reported increased confidence, enjoyment and a new understanding of how free rides for individuals ages 60 and older can support their independence. Participants will learn how to translate the program's lessons into their own community context.
Presenter:
Morgan Spliedt, Livable Communities Program Manager, Age-Friendly Howard County, Columbia, MD
[biography]
Morgan is the Livable Communities Program Manager at the Howard County Office on Aging and Independence, where she leads age-friendly initiatives to enhance accessibility and livability for residents and visitors. She earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Gerontology from Bowling Green State University and University of Maryland Baltimore County, respectively.
FT16) Where, Oh Where, Did the Funding Go? Funding Your Caregiver Journey
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
This session serves as a practical guide to securing financial support for family caregiver programs through grants, benefits and community resources. We’ll explore creative strategies for accessing funding to sustain and enhance caregiver services. With limited program budgets, participants will also discover how leveraging other AAA services can benefit caregivers and improve overall service delivery.
Presenters:
Cindy Kincaid, Aging Program Manager, Centalina Regional COuncil, Charlotte, NC
Kelsey Lieungh, Aging Program Coordinator, Centralina Area Agency on Aging, Charlotte, NC
[biography]
Kelsey Lieungh works as the Aging Program Coordinator for Centralian's Family Caregiver Support Program providing information, assistance and direct support including respite and supplemental services to caregivers to reduce caregiver burden. Kelsey is the co-chair of the Dementia Friendly Charlotte Mecklenburg Initiative, which aims to improve community awareness around dementia.
FT17) From Research to Reality: Co-Designing a Low-Vision Brand for Aging Adults
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Older adults with emerging vision loss often don’t seek help—because they don’t see vision services as “for them.” Braille Institute partnered with Vital Research to understand why. Through a statewide needs assessment, we learned how identity, language and stigma prevent people from engaging. This session shares how those findings led to a new low-vision brand, redesigned offerings, intake pathways and service experience—resulting in earlier engagement, stronger caregiver involvement and measurable impact in support and services. Attendees will leave with research insights, messaging strategies and service design practices they can use to reach older adults sooner in their own communities.
Presenters:
Allison Burdett, Chief Program Officer, Braille Institute of America, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Allison Burdett is Chief Program Officer at Braille Institute. With more than 15 years of leadership in nonprofit disability services, she leads program expansion and oversees development and delivery of services that support people experiencing vision loss, advancing new approaches to outreach and access for older adults
Sandy Shin, Vice President, Marketing & Communications, Braille Institute of America, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Sandy Shin is a strategic marketing leader focused on elevating customer engagement and experience across all touchpoints. With a passion for storytelling and amplifying diverse voices, she currently serves as Vice President of Marketing & Communications for Braille Institute, driving impact for more than 15,000 people navigating vision loss.
FT18) Empowering Aging With Dignity: Transforming Dementia Care in Indiana
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
As the aging population continues to grow, the need for compassionate, person-centered care has never been greater. REAL Services, the AAA serving Northern Indiana, has been at the forefront of this movement for more than half a century—empowering older adults, caregivers and families to live with dignity, purpose and connection. This presentation will explore how REAL Services leverages community partnerships, innovative care models and global inspiration to revolutionize dementia care. We will showcase Alzheimer’s and Dementia Services of Northern Indiana (ALZNI) and the development of Milton Village, the transformative collaboration with De Hogeweyk, the pioneering dementia village in the Netherlands. Participants will understand how these initiatives create a continuum of care that uplifts and redefines what aging support looks like in American communities.
Presenter:
Angelica Baginske, Director of Alzheimer's and Dementia Services of Northern Indiana, REAL Services, Inc., South Bend, IN
[biography]
A Registered Nurse, Angel brings years 20 years experience including Director of Nursing in the long-term care industry in both Indiana and Michigan. She is a Qualified Memory Care Provider and Dementia Champion. She is the design and consulting expert behind the revolutionary new Milton Village in South Bend
FT19) Beyond the Brochure: Modern Communication Strategies That Build Partnerships and Community Support
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Many AAAs deliver exceptional services but struggle to clearly communicate their value to partners, funders and the broader community. This session shares a practical, field-tested approach to strengthening external communications and relationship development that helped our agency expand visibility, deepen trust and open new partnership and funding opportunities. Attendees will learn how to craft clear messaging, build strategic community relationships and position their agency as an essential, credible resource. We’ll walk through specific tools, communication strategies and outreach habits that proved most effective, and what we learned along the way. Participants will leave with ready-to-use templates and a repeatable framework they can apply immediately to strengthen their agency’s presence, partnerships and long-term impact.
Presenter:
Randi Keesee, Vice President of Development, Peninsula Agency on Aging, Newport News, VA
[biography]
Randi Keesee, Vice President of Development for Peninsula Agency on Aging, is an advocate for aging issues and champion for ensuring people have the best supports to age well in their communities. Randi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with an emphasis on Marketing from College of Saint Mary’s.
FT20) Collaborative Partnerships for Homesharing: Bridging Affordable Housing, Care Supports and Fairness
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
What makes homesharing appealing to homeowners and home seekers? What are the benefits and challenges of homesharing for providers, homeowners and home seekers? How can AAAs use homesharing to address older adult housing needs? This presentation will share how homeshare programs help to address rising housing instability and care needs among older adults by matching and providing ongoing support to home providers with home seekers. Homesharing programs also can provide an innovative way to build social connections among older adults from various backgrounds and across generations. This presentation will also share qualitative findings from a study and partnership among California State University, Chico; California State University, Sacramento; UC Berkeley; and several homeshare organizations throughout California (including Front Porch).
Presenters:
Jenay Cottrell, Director of Aging & Adult Services, County of Marin, Department of Health and Human Services, San Rafael, CA
[biography]
With more than 15 years of experience working in services for older adults, Jenay Cottrel is the Director of Aging & Adult Services in Marin County, California. She entered the aging network after holding management positions in the private and nonprofit sectors and being her father’s caregiver.
Luke Barnesmoore, Director of Strategy, Front Porch, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Luke serves as the Director of Strategy for Home Match. Luke is a member of the Marin County Homeless Policy Steering Committee where he represents the prevention sector and acts as co-Chair of the HPSC’s Older Adult Committee, a community representative on the Marin County Commission on Aging’s Legislative Advocacy
FT22) Los Angeles County's Center of Excellence: An Elder Abuse Forensic Center Model
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
On August 22, 2023, the Los Angeles County Adult Protective Services Elder Abuse Forensic Center, or Center of Excellence, was established as a vital resource for addressing elder abuse cases. This initiative unites professionals from various fields dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of vulnerable older adults and individuals with disabilities. During the session, we will provide an overview of the center's purpose and key functions, including specialized services such as forensic analysis, legal advocacy and therapeutic support. The center aims to enhance safety and quality of life for at-risk populations while promoting community education and prevention strategies.
Presenter:
Ralph Pascual, Human Services Administrator, Los Angeles County, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Ralph Pascual has dedicated 25 years to serving Los Angeles County, beginning his career as a field social worker in Adult Protective Services (APS). He currently coordinates the APS Center of Excellence, the LA County Elder Abuse Forensic Center._x000D_
_x000D_
In addition to his work with APS, Ralph is an adjunct faculty
FT23) Road to Stability: A Home-Based Primary Care Program That Delivers
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
The Detroit Area Agency on Aging (DAAA) launched the Senior Solution Home-Based Primary Care initiative to bring medical care into the homes of older adults living in area with limited medical resources. By deploying an interdisciplinary team, DAAA addressed barriers such as a lack of primary care, difficulty traveling to appointments and reliance on emergency services. The program made a meaningful difference by stabilizing chronic conditions, reducing hospital visits, improving quality of life and easing caregiver burden through education and ongoing support. This presentation will show how home-based primary care can close health gaps, highlight evidence from community surveys and the
Dying Before Their Time
study, and demonstrate how partnerships and social drivers of health positively impact outcomes. Attendees will learn practical strategies for delivering fair and community-centered care.
Presenters:
Katherine Turrisi, Director, Community Integrated Services, Detroit Area Agency on Aging, Detroit, MI
[biography]
Kathy Turrisi has 45 years of nursing experience, including over 42 years in hospitals in Charleston, South Carolina, and Detroit, Michigan. For the last three years, she has worked at the Detroit Area Agency on Aging, where she launched the home-based primary care program.
Charlene Windham, Nurse Practitioner, Home-Based Primary Care Program, Detroit Area Agency on Aging, Detroit, MI
[biography]
Charlene Walton Windham, a Georgia native living in Michigan, is a seasoned Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience. Dedicated to community health and lifelong learning, she holds multiple nursing degrees and mentors emerging nurses. She is an active member of the Mary Mahoney Professional Nurses organization.
FT24) Unlocking Independence With Assistive Technology
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Every state and territory has a powerful assistive technology (AT) resource, a hidden gem for people with disabilities of all ages, including those aging into disability and those who don’t yet consider themselves disabled: the AT Act Programs. If you support adults who say, “I want to stay in my home, stay connected, keep working or keep doing what I love,” this session is for you. We’ll demystify AT and show how AT Act Programs allow people to try before they buy through device demonstrations and short-term loans, and acquire devices through reuse and alternative financing. Through real stories, attendees will leave with concrete, easy ways to connect the people they serve with their state’s AT Act Program.
Following a brief primer on technology and AT Act services, including device loans, demonstrations, and funding, we will transition into a collaborative, scenario-based dialogue. Together, we’ll brainstorm solutions for real-world aging challenges using the latest in remote monitoring and smart tech. Bring your expertise as we map out how to connect people with life-changing technology.
Presenter:
Jeannie Krull, Executive Director, ATAP-Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs, Washington, DC
[biography]
Jeannie Krull, MS/CCC-SLP, ATP, CAPS, is the Executive Director of ATAP, the National Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs. Ms. Krull is an ASHA certified speech/language pathologist, a RESNA certified Assistive Technology Professional (ATP), and a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) who has worked with people all ages and disabilities since 1991.
Jeannie spent the first part of her career working for a private practice as a speech pathologist serving all ages, in all settings. From 2000 to 2025, she worked for the North Dakota Assistive Technology Act program. In addition, she is a 2019 Bush Foundation Fellow, past Chair of the Board of ATAP, and an ATIA Strand Advisor for the Aging and AT Strand. She is also an Advisory Board Member for TechSage RERC, the American Institutes for Research® for IDD Virtual Research, and US Aging’s Commit to Connect and Eldercare Locator.
FT25) Creating Social Connection and Healthy Aging Through PACE-Led Community Engagement
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Discover how Gary and Mary West PACE uses community-based engagement, supportive housing partnerships and evidence-informed wellness programming to strengthen healthy aging and social connection for low-income older adults. This session highlights proven strategies—therapeutic recreation, fall-prevention activities, caregiver outreach, behavioral health touchpoints and story-driven initiatives like Life Story Books—that have improved safety, engagement and quality of life. Attendees will learn how West PACE’s relationship-first model reduces isolation; expands access for seniors in affordable housing communities; and increases participation in wellness, nutrition and physical activity programs. Participants will leave with practical tools they can apply immediately, including rapid-cycle engagement events, cross-sector collaboration approaches, culturally responsive outreach, and ways to use social connection as a core health intervention that supports independence and aging in place.
Presenter:
Mary Jurgensen, Community Engagement and Outreach Director, Gary and Mary West PACE, San Marcos, CA
[biography]
Mary Jurgensen serves as the Director of Community Engagement and Enrollment at Gary and Mary West PACE, where she leads strategic outreach and enrollment initiatives to connect low-income seniors with comprehensive, person-centered care. With over 85 years of experience in nonprofit healthcare sales, marketing, strategic planning, and public engagement, Mary
FT26) Access Points for Aging: A Rural Innovation Making Services Easier to Reach
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
In Aroostook County—Maine’s vast, rural and aging region—the Aroostook Agency on Aging launched Access Points for Aging to address a clear challenge: older adults needed easier access to services closer to home. We built a countywide strategy by mapping service gaps, listening to residents and partnering with trusted community hubs. With federal seed funding, we equipped libraries, town offices, fire departments and community centers as welcoming, technology-enabled navigation sites staffed by trained personnel and local champions. Today, more than 20 Access Points have connected hundreds of older adults and family caregivers with education, resources and social supports. Our next phase expands digital tools, deepens partnerships and builds long-term sustainability. Participants will leave inspired—and ready to replicate this model in their own communities.
Presenters:
Chris Beaulieu, Director of Programs & Services, Aroostook Agency on Aging, Presque Isle, ME
[biography]
Chris is an accomplished leader with over 25 years of experience in program management and strategic oversight in the nonprofit and public sectors. As Director at the Aroostook Agency on Aging, Chris oversees services, ensures compliance, leads staff, and drives innovative initiatives to enhance and expand Agency programs.
Joy Barresi Saucier, Executive Director, Aroostook Agency on Aging, Presque Isle, ME
[biography]
Joy Barresi Saucier, MHA, RN, FACHE, is Executive Director of the Aroostook Agency on Aging and a Health and Aging Policy Fellow. She serves as USAging Region 1 Board Alternate and is Past President of AgeWise Maine, advancing policies and programs that support older adults in the most rural communities.
FT27) Bringing Dementia Services to Local Malls via CBO Partnerships: A Community Innovation
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Innovations in dementia community building: working with community-based organizations (CBOs) to bring services to the local shopping mall. Attend this session to learn how our AAA worked with our partner CBO to revolutionize the way our community accesses dementia support services. Amy’s Place is operated by Dementia Support NW, a partnering nonprofit agency, and provides services in collaboration with Northwest Regional Council. This community hub aims to reduce barriers to care by providing services in a local shopping mall. These include free short-term drop-in respite, support groups, art and cultural events and much more. Attend this session to learn how a AAA/CBO partnership can lead to offering dementia services in local shopping malls..
Presenters:
Bethany Chamberlin, Planner and Dementia Support Program Coordinator, Northwest Regional Council, Bellingham, WA
[biography]
Bethany Chamberlin, PhD, is the Planner and Dementia Support Program Coordinator at the _x000D_
Northwest Regional Council. Her work focuses on community health and wellness, particularly supporting those living with dementia. She has worked in various roles and enjoys bringing new programs to the community through a translational research lens.
Heather Carter, Operations Manager, Dementia Support Northwest, Bellingham, WA
[biography]
Heather is Operations Manager for DSNW and joined the team to help bring the vision of Amy’s Place to life. She brings decades of experience in nonprofit work in program delivery, fundraising, budget management and administration. She’s committed to reducing stigma and expanding dementia friendly spaces in our community.
FT28) Medicare Fraud Prevention Outreach and Updates From SMP
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) empowers Medicare beneficiaries to prevent, detect and report Medicare fraud, errors and abuse through outreach, counseling and education. The SMPs’ unique position within communities allows them to quickly identify new fraud trends and issues that can then be shared with fraud investigators and the public, many times before those trends are identifiable in the billing data. This session will focus on sharing new fraud trends identified by the SMPs and updates on the innovative communication channels and outreach work the program does to get the word out.
Presenters:
Maggie Flowers, MIPPA Program Director, Office of Healthcare Information and Counseling, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Maggie Flowers is Medicare Program Director at the Administration for Community Living, leading the MIPPA program to help older adults and people with disabilities access Medicare and low-income benefits. She has extensive experience in economic security and aging services and holds degrees from Texas A&M University and UT Austin.
Rebecca Kinney, Director, Office of Healthcare Information and Counseling, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
As ACL’s OHIC Director, Rebecca manages the administration of the Medicare focused programs and activities managed by ACL including the SHIP, SMP, and MIPPA programs. In this role, she provides oversight and direction to the OHIC team, state grantees, contractors and national centers established to support the OHIC grantees.
4:30 PM
5:00 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
4:30 PM
5:00 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
FT29) Community Health Workers: Opportunity and Sustainability in the Aging Network
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Many older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers struggle to find the information they need to make informed choices about long-term services and supports (LTSS) options. The Cal Community Connect program seeks to streamline access to services by employing community health workers (CHWs) as No Wrong Door navigators across social and health care systems. This public-private partnership engages AAAs with health plans to leverage Medi-Cal and Medicare to support older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers to access the services they need while developing a sustainable business model that can be replicated throughout the state. Participating AAAs will share strategies and tips about how they replicated this approach in their networks.
Presenters:
Anson Houghton, Program Administrator, Area 4 Agency on Aging, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
• Anson Houghton has over 25 years of experience working with older adults and people with disabilities. Working with the Agency on Aging Area 4 (AAA4), Anson oversees their case management team, five Aging and Disability Resource Connections and develops programming outside of the agency’s traditional Older American Act funding.
Sarah Steenhausen, Deputy Director-Policy, Research, and Equity, California Department of Aging, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
Sarah serves as Deputy Director of the Division of Policy, Research & Engagement. She collaborates with state departments & stakeholders in developing policy and research impacting older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers to advance system change and realize the goals of California’s Master Plan for Aging.
FT30) Caregivers in Crisis: Recognizing and Supporting Overwhelmed Caregivers
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Caregiver strain is both widespread and under recognized. In a recent study, 47 percent of caregivers reported increases in anxiety, depression or other mental health challenges in the past year. Yet many family members do not identify as caregivers, leaving them unaware of the services, supports and interventions available to help before a situation becomes unmanageable. A series of tragic local caregiver–care receiver murder–suicides prompted the creation of the Emergency Caregiver and Older Adult Mental Health Task Force. Convened by Peninsula Agency on Aging, the task force brings together more than 75 professionals and community members committed to addressing this urgent public health issue. Together, they are developing media and print awareness campaigns, a 24/7 easy-to-access resource hub and rapid access to counseling for family caregivers experiencing
Presenters:
Randi Keesee, Vice President of Development, Peninsula Agency on Aging, Newport News, VA
[biography]
Randi Keesee, Vice President of Development for Peninsula Agency on Aging, is an advocate for aging issues and champion for ensuring people have the best supports to age well in their communities. Randi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with an emphasis on Marketing from College of Saint Mary’s.
Toni Johnson, Director of Care Coordination, Peninsula Agency on Aging, Newport News, VA
[biography]
Toni is the Director of Care Coordination at Peninsula Agency on Aging in Newport News, VA. With over 15 years of experience in mental health and human services, she is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in solution-focused therapy. She enjoys spending time with family, cooking, and traveling.
FT31) Caregiving Haven: Transforming Access to Caregiver Resources, Tools and Guidance
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Caregiving Haven is a free, one-stop digital hub that empowers family and informal caregivers with practical tools and meaningful support. This session reviews how The Senior Alliance used one-time funding to build a robust, long-lasting platform filled with caregiver resources and tools. We will highlight how a customizable care binder, caregiver guides, self-assessments and video trainings help caregivers stay organized, reduce stress and connect with the right services at the right time. We’ll also share data on Caregiving Haven engagement. Attendees will leave with templates, engagement strategies and a replicable framework for creating or enhancing a caregiver resource portal in their own organizations or communities.
Presenter:
Amanda Sears, Chief Community Impact Officer, The Senior Alliance, Dearborn, MI
[biography]
Amanda Sears is Director of Planning and Projects at The Senior Alliance. With over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Amanda has a passion for leading initiatives, building community coalitions, and developing programs that expand access to high quality services for older adults and caregivers.
FT32) Building Stronger Support Systems Together: Family Caregiver Specialists and Benefits Counselors Assemble
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
As chronic diseases progress, caregivers face growing challenges that require coordinated support. Our program meets these needs through collaboration between family caregiver specialists and benefits counselors. Caregiver specialists serve as the first point of contact, offering emotional, practical and resource guidance. To ensure families receive comprehensive assistance, we connect them with benefits counselors for expert help with Medicare and other benefits. This partnership goes beyond referrals—our teams jointly train and certify in advance directives, empowering families to make informed decisions about future care. By integrating education, planning and advocacy, we strengthen service delivery, reduce caregiver stress and improve quality of life for families in our service area. Our goal: to equip caregivers with the tools, knowledge and confidence to navigate care successfully.
Presenters:
Christina Edwardson, Family Caregiver Specialist, Area Agency on Aging of the Coastal Bend, Corpus Christi, TX
[biography]
A passionate caregiver advocate with 13+ years of experience in education, support services, and community outreach. Known for expertise and genuine compassion, Christina is a Texas A&M–Corpus Christi graduate, wife, and proud mom of three boys—committed to empowering families through knowledge and care.
Shanice Moya, Lead Benefits Counselor, Area Agency on Aging of the Coastal Bend, Corpus Christi, TX
[biography]
Lead Benefits Counselor at CBAAA, Shanice oversees the Consumer Care team and supports staff in achieving goals. With six years of experience across multiple roles, she is passionate about helping individuals and caregivers understand Medicare, Social Security, state benefits, and future planning.
FT33) Beyond Borders: How a AAA Delivers Innovative Veteran-Directed Care Across States
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Learn how a AAA spoke model transforms Veteran-Directed Care by expanding reach, reducing administrative barriers and strengthening collaboration to ensure high-quality, person-centered services for veterans throughout multiple states.
Presenter:
Stephanie Parker, Director Of Veteran Services, Peninsula Agency on Aging, Newport News, VA
[biography]
Stephanie started with PAA 4 years ago as an Options Counselor in the VDC program. Since then she has earned several promotions the latest being Vice President of Veteran Services.
FT34) Make Your AAA the BEST Place to Work!
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
What does it take to make your AAA the best place to work? Is it possible to foster an engaged and motivated workplace without an on-site gym, expensive gifts or frequent off-site bonding events—even in a hybrid work environment? Discover valuable ideas and tips from a AAA that won a regional contest for being the best mid-sized employer!
Presenter:
Lynn Kimball, Executive Director, Aging and Long-Term Care of Eastern Washington, Spokane, WA
[biography]
Lynn Kimball is the Executive Director of Aging and Long-Term Care of Eastern Washington (ALTCEW), which serves five counties in Northeastern Washington. Lynn currently serves as the first Vice President on the USAging Board, representing Region X, and as the legislative chair for W4A in Washington State.
FT35) Beyond Books: Libraries as Powerful Partners in Supporting Older Adults
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Libraries are more than just books! They can connect older adults experiencing social isolation, teach technology skills, host support groups, provide a community space for presentations and outreach and much more. This session, presented by a former librarian, explores practical, innovative ways AAAs can partner with libraries to promote healthy aging, support the needs of caregivers and connect local networks of aging service providers to new audiences. Whether your agency is just beginning to explore partnerships with public libraries or looking for new ways to collaborate, this session will provide inspiration for leveraging library spaces and technology and generating joint programming ideas.
Presenters:
Donna Feddern, Chief of Programs and Services, Lewis-Mason-Thurston Area Agency on Aging, Olympia, WA
[biography]
Donna Feddern is the Chief of Programs and Services at the Lewis Mason Thurston Area Agency on Aging in Washington where she oversees the Medicaid Case Management, Family Caregiver Support, ADRC, and Health Home programs. She is also a former librarian with over 20 years experience working in public libraries.
Valerie Aubertin, Community Supports Director, Lewis-Mason-Thurston Area Agency on Aging, Olympia, WA
[biography]
Valerie Aubertin is the Community Supports Director at Lewis Mason Thurston Area Agency on Aging in Olympia, Washington. She has many years of experience working in the aging industry, including case management, contracts, and department leadership.
FT37) From Barriers to Breakthroughs: Advancing Healthy Living for Rural Older Adults
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
In remote communities like Campo in San Diego County, older adults want to eat well and stay active, but they face many barriers, including few local stores with reliable produce, long travel distances, limited transit and unsafe walking conditions. These challenges also make it difficult for providers to offer consistent programs when turnout is low. This session will demonstrate how trust building, partnerships and resident involvement can turn these obstacles into opportunities. A simple nutrition class sparked deeper engagement, leading to a garden club, the development of a community garden and creative solutions such as live streaming a County-led exercise class at a central site. Attendees will leave with practical, low-cost strategies to engage rural older adults and build sustainable programs grounded in community voice and real-life challenges.
Presenters:
Lina Nasr, Older Adult Nutrition and Community Improvement Specialist, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Lina holds a Public Health Master’s degree and has worked in the field of health behavior and education for over 20 years. She has been with the County of San Diego since 2013, and currently provides Community Engagement sessions that empower low-income participants to make sustainable improvements in their community.
Roberto Ramirez, Health Promotion Manager, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Roberto currently serves as the Health Promotion Manager at the County of San Diego, Aging & Independence Services (AIS). At AIS, Roberto oversees the planning and implementation of various health and wellness programs and initiatives which aim to help older adults live healthy, safe, and thriving lives.
FT38) Adapting the 4Ms Framework for American Indian and Alaska Native Elders
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
This session presents an adaptation of the 4Ms—a framework to guide care of older adults whenever they come into contact with your health system’s care and services—that is more relatable and relevant to American Indian and Alaska Native communities. The intention is to incorporate the 4Ms into existing care to organize the efficient delivery of effective care. The International Association for Indigenous Aging and the Yale Medical School Connecticut Older Adult Collaboration for Health Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program team adapted the language and visual imagery of the 4Ms, resulting in a tool that reflects the individual 4M components and incorporates cultural elements. This adaptation is designed to improve communication between Tribal elders and medical care teams, building trust in care.
Presenters:
Bill Benson, President, International Association for Indigenous Aging, Silver Spring, MD
[biography]
Bill Benson is President of the IA2 and has worked in aging and health for over four decades. Bill has held senior leadership positions from the state to federal level and is a national advocate on elder justice and brain health.
Megan Dicken, Public Health and Aging Associate, International Association for Indigenous Aging, Atlanta, GA
[biography]
Megan Dicken is the Public Health and Aging Associate at the International Association for Indigenous Aging and an enrolled member of the United Houma Nation of Louisiana. Having cared for grandparents living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, Megan has personal insights into the prevention and treatment of ADRD.
FT39) Using the Village Model to Reach Older Adults in Communities With Limited Resources
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Baltimore County’s AAA leveraged the Village model to expand services to communities with limited resources, including immigrant, hard-to-reach and low-income older adults. This session will detail how the county used targeted grants, community partnerships, culturally responsive outreach and flexible program design to support the launch and growth of community-led Villages. Participants will learn how the AAA identified gaps in traditional service delivery, built trust with grassroots organizations and created a scalable framework that local AAAs can replicate. The presentation will highlight outcomes, lessons learned and practical tools for engaging unique communities, implementing Village partnerships and aligning the model with barrier-free and age-friendly goals. Attendees will leave with clear strategies to adapt the Village approach in their counties to strengthen access, connection and support for older adults.
Presenter:
Eram Abbasi, Chief of Community Services, Baltimore County Department of Aging, Towson, MD
[biography]
Eram Abbasi serves as Chief of Community Services at the Baltimore County Department of Aging, supporting Age-Friendly initiatives, the Villages of Baltimore County, dementia-friendly efforts, caregivers support, and volunteer programs. She focuses on building equitable, community-driven models that expand access to services for underserved older adults countywide.
FT41) Statewide Advocacy: Don’t Blow Out the Candles on the Older Americans Act
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
This interactive session explores how strategic communication and advocacy can work together to influence policymakers and strengthen support for aging services by increasing visibility of Older Americans Act (OAA) programs. Presenters from two different AAAs will share how Illinois’ AAAs coordinated a statewide OAA Day of Advocacy using targeted messaging, unified calls to action and coordinated legislative outreach. Participants will learn how to create a cohesive marketing campaign; practice techniques for crafting clear, compelling communication messages; and build relationships with lawmakers, including bringing legislators to funded partner sites to show how OAA dollars translate into real impact. Attendees will leave with practical tools to elevate their organization’s advocacy efforts and inspire legislative champions for older adults.
Presenters:
Delaney Patrick, Advocacy and Planning Specialist, AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois, Lombard, IL
Emma Kidder, Manager - Advocacy and Public Policy, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Emma Kidder, LCSW, MPH is a Manager of Advocacy and Public Policy. She holds a Master of Public Health and a Master in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Emma is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
Monday, July 20
7:00 AM
5:30 PM
Registration and Information Desk Open
8:00 AM
8:30 AM
Morning Refreshments, Discovery Showcase and Poster Sessions
8:30 AM
10:00 AM
General Sessions
8:30 AM
10:00 AM
General Sessions
GS03) Food Is Medicine: The Aging Network, Nutrition and Health
Since the advent of the Older Americans Act (OAA), AAAs and Title VI programs have been at the forefront of nutrition for older adults. The meals, groceries, nutrition counseling and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program application assistance that AAAs, Title VI programs and other OAA providers have funded and provided for decades are cornerstones of healthy aging. With the health care world recognizing the importance of meals and nutrition as part of whole-person health, new opportunities are opening up for the Aging Network to provide medically tailored meals, access to nutrition and more. Come to this session to learn about the Food Is Medicine movement, how it is changing our view of health and how all AAAs can get involved.
Presenters:
Cathryn Couch, Founder and CEO, Ceres Community Project, Santa Rosa, CA
[biography]
Cathryn Couch is founder and CEO of Ceres Community Project, a 100% organic food is medicine organization providing 245,000 medically tailored meals annually. Ceres’ model includes a Youth Development Program serving hundreds of teens. Ceres has scaled their integrated community health model to more than a dozen communities across the US, Denmark and New Zealand.
Rani Snyder, President, The John A. Hartford Foundation, New York, NY
[biography]
Rani E. Snyder, MPA, is President of The John A. Hartford Foundation, a national philanthropy dedicated to improving care for older adults by creating health systems that are age-friendly, supporting family caregivers, and improving serious illness and end-of-life care.
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Director of Aging Services, Allegheny County Department of Human Services Area Agency on Aging, Pittsburgh, PA
[biography]
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Ph.D., is Director of the Allegheny County DHS Area Agency on Aging. Since 2022, she has transformed services, reaching over 39,000 people annually. With extensive research and nonprofit leadership experience, she advances community-driven advocacy, earning recognition from USAging, The John A. Hartford Foundation, and Pittsburgh Business Times.
10:00 AM
11:45 AM
Discovery Showcases Open
10:00 AM
10:45 AM
Poster Sessions
10:00 AM
10:45 AM
Poster Session
Alzheimer’s Disease and Non-Alzheimer’s Dementia Prevalence and Forecasting in San Diego County
Presenter:
Darian Grisso, County of San Diego
Beyond Older Americans Act Dollars: New Data on How AAAs Fund Core Services
Presenter:
Traci Wilson, USAging
Bringing Dementia Resources to Rural and Tribal Communities in Washington State
Presenter:
Bri Buchanan, Olympic Area Agency on Aging
Building a Medical Chaperone Program
Presenter:
Julie Buck, Passages
Building Family Caregiver Resilience: A Community-Based Approach to Navigating Ambiguous Loss
Presenter:
Angela Bender, Duet: Partners In Health & Aging
Caregiver Supports in New MexiCare Program Reduces Nursing Facility and ER Visits
Presenter:
Angelina Flores-Montoya, New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department
Characteristics of Dementia-Capable Organizations in the United States’ Aging Network
Presenter:
Heather Menne, Miami University
Choice, Control and Care: Transforming Veterans Services
Presenter:
Robbie Boyd, Local Office on Aging
Creating and Advancing Caregiving Research and Evidence (CARE) Network Caregiving Research Agenda
Presenter:
Kim Whitmore, Marquette University
Demystifying Long-Term Care
Presenter:
Kyle Sanchez, Lewis-Mason-Thurston Area Agency on Aging
Empowering Korean-American Seniors and Caregivers Through Culturally Tailored “Well-Aging” Education
Presenter:
Lynne Conger, Somang Society
Family Caregivers Are in Everybody's Business: How AAA Joined the Group Chat
Presenter:
Donna Benton, USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
Family Support for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Presenter:
Abigail Schindler, Institute on Disability and Human Development
Feeling Fit Club: An Evidence-Based Program for Improving Fitness and Cultivating Connection
Presenter:
Skyler Moore, County of San Diego, Aging & Independence Service
Food, Health and Connection: A Multifaceted Intervention for Rural Oklahoma Seniors
Presenter:
Emily Heath, Community Market of Pottawatomie County
From Ideas to Impact: How Agencies Build a Culture of Innovation
Presenter:
Jonathan Haag, CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions
From Risk to Resilience: Embedding Fall Prevention in Case Management
Presenter: Skyler Moore, County of San Diego, Aging & Independence Services
Guidelines and Strategies to Implement an Accessible Garden for People With Dementia
Presenter:
Melody Halzel, Center on Aging, University of Hawai'i at Manoa
Healing at Home: AdventHealth and Senior Resource Alliance Hospital Readmission Prevention Program
Presenter:
Connor Jones, The Area Agency on Aging of Central Florida dbc Senior Resource Alliance
Improving Access to Health Care—A 60-Day Chaperone Transportation Model
Presenter:
Sathya Rajan, Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital
Insight to Impact: Unifying AAA Branding and Messaging
Presenter:
Pamela Elfenbein, University of North Georga
Integrating a Blue Zone Environment: How to Increase Age Expectancy in Communities
Presenter:
April Friant, Salem County Office on Aging
JAWS: Building Intergenerational Long-Term Care through Community Partnerships
Presenter:
Jody Barker, Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging
Key Insights From the National Survey of Older Americans Act Participants
Presenter:
Mary Kate Brown, U.S. Administration for Community Living
Miles That Matter: Volunteer Drivers Delivering Care, Companionship and Important Medical Access
Presenter:
Laura Allen, Elderbridge Agency on Aging
Modernizing Health and Social Care Partnerships Through Community Care Hub Data Exchange
Presenter:
Rachelle Scott Oakley, Iowa Community HUB
Needs Assessment Findings: Delivering Integrated Nutrition, Engagement and Resilience
Presenter:
Catherine MacDonald, VCU Gerontology and the Virginia Center on Aging
Policy in Practice: Implementing a Values-Based Food Purchasing Framework in San Diego
Presenter:
Skyler Moore, County of San Diego, Aging & Independence Services
Stronger Together: Building Social Connection to Boost Senior Disaster Resilience
Presenter:
Sarah Rosenbaum, Seniors in Service of Tampa Bay, Inc.
Super Seniors: Bridging Generations Through Athletics
Presenter:
Tyronda Whitaker, Upper Coastal Plain Council of Governments
Take Action—Collaboration Is Key to Age-Friendly Initiatives
Presenter:
Sara McDonald, Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging
The Basics of Social Security and Making the Most of Your Benefit
Presenter:
Lara Hinz, Women's Institute for a Secure Retirement (WISER)
The Dementia Friendly America Movement—An Opportunity for EVERYONE to Engage
Presenter:
Jennifer Hammer, USAging
The Path Forward: AAA-Health Care Contracting Trends
Presenter:
Marisa Scala-Foley, USAging
Training Dementia “Gatekeepers” to Recognize and Refer Within the Korean-American Community
Presenter:
Lynne Conger, Somang Society
Utilizing Automation to Increase Care Communication During Key Consumer Events
Presenter:
Clare Cruz, Allegheny County Department of Human Services
Village Movement, 25 Years of Community Strength
Presenter:
Barbara Sullivan, Village to Village Network
Wits Workout Improves Social Engagement and Creates Community
Presenter:
Laura Payne, UIUC
WRAAA Nails It! A Home Modification, Fall-Prevention Initiative
Presenter:
Georgina Blake, Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging
10:30 AM
12:30 PM
Mobile Workshops
10:30 AM
12:30 PM
Mobile Workshops
MW01) Tour a Nationally Recognized Senior Wellness Center, Explore Replicating Our Transformative Model
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Pre-registration required.
Serving Seniors is a San Diego–based nonprofit helping older adults experiencing poverty live healthy, fulfilling lives. Founded in 1970, the organization supports low-income and unhoused seniors through a comprehensive model that includes nutritious meals, affordable housing, health and social services and enrichment activities. The flagship Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center provides daily meals and integrated resources—health clinicians, case managers, housing assistance, activities, lifelong learning, technology access and more than 25 onsite service partners that includes a dental center. Last year, Serving Seniors provided more than 1.5 million meals and coordinated services for 13,265 older adults. During this workshop, you will tour the facilities, see activities happening in real time and gain insights on how to replicate this in your community.
Presenter:
Melinda Forstey, President/CEO, Serving Seniors, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Melinda Forstey, President & CEO of Serving Seniors, leads one of San Diego’s foremost nonprofits for older adults, guiding its person-centered model of meals, housing, supportive services, and efforts addressing senior homelessness. She also holds regional and statewide leadership roles and contributes to aging policy nationally.
10:45 AM
11:45 AM
Roundtables
10:45 AM
11:45 AM
Roundtables
RT04) Preparing for and Responding to Local Disasters: Peer Learning Roundtable
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Many communities are experiencing more frequent or severe local emergencies and changing disaster patterns, which can have a disproportionate impact on older adults. Sixty-five percent of AAAs report that a community within their service areas has experienced a significant emergency or disaster within the past five years (2025 AAA National Survey). This roundtable discussion provides an opportunity to learn from one another's experiences of emergency planning and response. We'll discuss practical approaches to disaster planning, response coordination, service continuity and supporting older adults during emergencies. Come ready to share with and learn from colleagues across the Aging Network about what works, what doesn't and how we can strengthen our collective capacity to serve older adults in times of crisis.
Presenter:
Deborah Stone-Walls, Chief, Programs and Services, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
This is the place for the bio.
10:45 AM
11:45 AM
Workshops
10:45 AM
11:45 AM
Workshops
W68) Achieving Innovative and Scalable Models in Family Caregiving
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Nine states are currently breaking new ground to innovate and create replicable models that bolster their Family Caregiver Support Programs while building new alignment among their state agencies to make family caregiving a priority. With U.S. Administration for Community Living funding, these nine states are serving as incubators for approaches grounded in the National Strategy to Support Family Caregiving. Learn about unique state efforts to increase awareness; advance partnerships; strengthen services and supports; ensure financial and workplace security; and expand data, research and evidence-based practices to support family caregivers. Gather tools, strategies and templates for your state’s efforts.
Presenters:
Bernice Hutchinson, Aging Services Program Specialist, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
PCI, Required Session
Nikaela Fredrick, Aging Services Program Specialist, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Nikaela Frederick, MPH, is an Aging Services Program Specialist at ACL, overseeing grants and contracts under Title III-E of the Older Americans Act. She has over a decade of experience across the Aging Network at the local, regional, and state levels, including roles in wellness programming, information and referral, and
W69) Age Wise Program: A Modeled Approach in Behavioral Health
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
This session highlights the successful replication of San Bernardino County’s Age Wise Program, a nontraditional behavioral health model serving high-risk, older adults living in communities with limited resources. Through a No Wrong Door approach, Age Wise ensures seamless access to services, regardless of entry point. Presenters will share insights from technical assistance efforts, including training, consultation and implementation support. Attendees will learn how to adapt the model to meet local needs, with data-driven outcomes demonstrating improved housing stability, access to care and client well-being. This session offers practical strategies for organizations seeking to enhance behavioral health services for aging populations.
Presenters:
Karen Wilson, Mental Health Program Manager II, County of San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
Dr. Karen Sadewater Wilson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Mental Health Program Manager II for San Bernardino County’s Age Wise Program. A graduate of the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, she brings a passion for community service and enjoys travel, concerts, new restaurants, and football.
Denisse Guieb Ruiz, Program Specialist I, San Bernardino County - Age Wise, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
Denisse Guieb Ruiz is a Program Specialist I with the County of San Bernardino Department of Aging and Adult Services – Public Guardian, Age Wise Program. She received a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Location Analytics from Redlands University. She has over 15 years of experience in public service.
April Johnson, Mental Health Clinic Supervisor, San Bernardino County - Age Wise, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
r. April Johnson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Doctor of Social Work, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), and Air Force veteran who provides a holistic, evidence-based approach to mental health, addressing biopsychosocial and spiritual dimensions. She is the current Mental Health Clinic Supervisor for Age Wise. Dr. Johnson is dedicated to guiding individuals through life’s challenges, fostering healing, wellness, and resilience for improved daily functioning.
W71) Building Connections, Creating Community!
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
For 17 years, several AAAs in Missouri and SAGE have worked together to create welcoming, affirming services for older adults—efforts that led to the development of the SAGE National Resource Center-–Friendly Aging Network Toolkit. Funded by the U.S Administration for Community Living and piloted across six states, this toolkit provides a practical, adaptable roadmap for building accessible networks that combat isolation and strengthen community connections. This session is more critical than ever: a recent SAGE survey revealed that 50 percent of respondents reported feeling isolated, left out or lacking companionship. Join us to explore the toolkit and gain actionable strategies for creating local networks that foster belonging and deliver affirming, community-tailored services.
Presenters:
Christine Hustedde, COO, Aging Ahead, Manchester, MO
[biography]
Christine joined Aging Ahead in 2018 as the Chief Operating Officer. Christine has an MSW, is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and has served in nonprofit management for 20+ years. In her spare time, Christine volunteers with a local feline rescue and tries to remember the rules of pickleball.
Anneliese Stoever, Director, St. Louis Area Agency on Aging, St Louis, MO
[biography]
Anneliese Stoever, MSW is the Director of the St Louis Area Agency on Aging and supervises staff, develops programs, writes grants, monitors services, and leads several community project initiatives. Ms. Stoever has a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Kansas and a Masters in Social Work.
Sherrill Wayland, Senior Director of Special Initiatives, SAGE, St Louis, MO
[biography]
Sherrill Wayland is the Senior Director of Special Initiatives and Partnerships at SAGE, leading the National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging.
W72) The Impact Equation: KPIs + Motivation = Transformation
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Discover how implementing a comprehensive Key Performance Indicator (KPI) system can revolutionize service quality and staff engagement in AAAs. This interactive session highlights a proven framework linking client satisfaction metrics to performance-based compensation, creating measurable improvements in service delivery. Learn how one AAA transformed organizational culture by establishing transparent KPIs tied to client satisfaction surveys and other KPIs, resulting in enhanced accountability and team member motivation. Participants will explore practical strategies for selecting meaningful metrics, implementing client feedback systems, designing fair performance incentive programs and overcoming resistance to change. Leave with actionable tools to measure what matters, celebrate excellence and create a data-driven culture that elevates both staff performance and client outcomes while maintaining ethical standards and team cohesion.
Presenters:
Becky Newman, Chief Financial Officer, Direction Home Akron Canton AAA & Disabilities, Uniontown, Ohio, OH
[biography]
Becky Newman, CFO at Direction Home Akron Canton since 2016, brings over a decade of health care advisory experience. She oversees fiscal strategy, IT, and security. Becky earned an MBA in Health Care Administration from the University of Akron and a BS in Business Finance.
Christopher Fagerstrom, Senior Vice President, Home & Community Based Services, Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities, Uniontown, OH
[biography]
Chris Fagerstrom has been with Direction Home Akron Canton for the past 24+ years. Chris is a Licensed Social Worker with a Master's degree in Organizational Leadership. Chris works diligently to maximize the health outcomes of members served, while keeping program costs low and client satisfaction high.
Heesoo Kim, PHD, Managing Director, Hana Research Group, Norristown, PA
[biography]
Heesoo Kim, head of Hana Research Group, brings 20+ years of expertise in healthcare data, informatics, and research, with leadership roles across government, health insurance, and pharma. An Ohio State University graduate, he specialized in public policy, economics, and resource management.
W73) Braiding Funds and Building Capacity: Funding Transportation for Older Adults
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Title III B and Title VI funds under the Older Americans Act are vital, but they’re not the only sources available to sustain transportation for older adults and people with disabilities. This session explores how communities can leverage the
Federal Funds Braiding Guide
and other key tools to identify, combine and coordinate multiple funding streams to support accessible transportation. Presenters will share practical strategies for aligning resources across federal, state and local programs, along with examples of successful fund-braiding initiatives. Participants will gain actionable insights to strengthen financial sustainability and build capacity to meet varied mobility needs.
Presenters:
David Somers, Senior Research Associate, Transportation and Mobility, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Staff
Jennifer Hallum, CEO, Area Agency on Aging of Western Arkansas, Fort Smith, AR
[biography]
Jennifer Hallum is experienced in rural mobility and community transportation with a decade of leadership as CEO of the Area Agency on Aging of Western Arkansas She has a BBA in accounting and more than 20 years of private?sector experience that includes compliance, data analytics, training and leadership.
Bill Wagner, Director, Coordinating Council on Access and Mobility Technical Assistance Center, Coordinating Council on Access and Mobility Technical Assistance Center, Washington, DC
[biography]
Bill Wagner is the Director of the Coordinating Council on Access and Mobility Technical Assistance Center at the Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA). He has over 25 years of experience in transportation, human services and healthcare.
W74) Healing at Home: AdventHealth and Senior Resource Alliance Hospital Readmission Prevention Program
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
AdventHealth and Senior Resource Alliance (the Area Agency on Aging in Central Florida) have launched The Hospital Readmission Prevention Program, an evidence-based initiative designed to reduce avoidable hospital readmissions among older adults. Focused on patients ages 65+ who were recently discharged with heart failure, the program provides personalized follow-up care, in-home and virtual visits, and seamless connection to community resources. Community health workers play a pivotal role in care coordination; helping patients understand discharge instructions; manage chronic conditions; and access support for housing, food and transportation. Early outcomes show improved continuity of care and stronger patient empowerment. Attendees will learn how this innovative model prevents 30-day readmissions, fosters collaboration across health and aging networks, and offers practical strategies to replicate in their own communities.
Presenters:
Karla Radka, CEO, Senior Resource Alliance, Orlando, FL
[biography]
Karla Radka, CEO of Senior Resource Alliance, has over 25 years of experience in social impact and organizational growth. She has held senior roles at nonprofits like Goodwill Industries, co-founded Hope Now International, and received numerous accolades.
Kelli Burba, Executive Director of Nursing Care Transitions, AdventHealth, Orlando, FL
[biography]
Healthcare leader with 35+ years of experience in nursing and care management. Executive Director of Nursing Care Transitions, published author, and national speaker. Passionate about improving patient transitions, age-friendly initiatives, and community health. Active board member and advocate for seniors, substance use recovery, and housing solutions.
W75) Interdependent Outreach: Storytelling as Strategy for Effective Community Engagement
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
With restricted budgets and limited staff, organizations can feel overwhelmed in providing relevant programming to meet the needs in their community. This session will explore how professionals representing different organizations have centered storytelling via film and The Mama Joe Project as an effective tool to: 1) raise awareness around Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias; 2) leverage information and resources in support of caregivers, including social networking and self-care; and 3) bring together churches, researchers, nonprofits and health care organizations for community engagement. Attendees will learn basics of how The Mama Joe Project was successfully implemented in each location and hear examples of how organizations with different interests can partner in ways that are creative, budget efficient and impactful to the communities they serve.
Presenters:
Meegie Jordan, Associate State Director for Community Outreach, AARP Mississippi, Brandon, MS
[biography]
Associate State Director for Community Outreach at AARP Mississippi, Meegie Jordan is dedicated to identifying community needs and implementing programs, policies, and projects that enhance the lives of older Americans and people of all ages. Her work focuses on strengthening relationships with key stakeholders that foster engagement for all Mississippians.
Herb Caldwell, Project Lead/Coordinator of Outreach, The Mama Joe Project, Caseyville, IL
[biography]
Herb Caldwell is an educator and creative based near St. Louis, MO. He is also lead for The Mama Joe Project, an initiative that centers storytelling via film with evidence-based guidance to support caregivers, promote healthy aging, and improve outcomes for families navigating Alzheimer’s and related dementia.
Sherry Wu, City of Seattle Aging & Disability Services, Area Agency on Aging for Seattle/King County, Seattle, WA
[biography]
Sherry Wu is a Senior Planner with the City of Seattle Aging and Disability Services, the Area Agency on Aging for Seattle/King County. She leads community-centered, equity-focused investment processes, program planning, and evaluation for the Family Caregiver Support Program, dementia and brain health initiatives, and coordinated efforts to address homelessness.
W76) Chance for Life: Re-integrating Older Returning Citizens to AAA Communities
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
This interactive session will introduce prospective attendees to an effective and innovative case coordination model that has been proven successful in engaging incarcerated and returning citizens ages 60+ in being integrated into their families and/or communities after years away from home. Attendees will learn how AAAs and other organizations can embrace older returning citizens to assist them to re-build their lives through prison and out-of-prison interactions, thoughtful assessments, individualized service planning and connection to evidence-based behavioral health training. Additionally, approaches used to link participants to benefits and entitlements, job placement, housing, transportation, family mediation, legal assistance, health care and other services will be shared through poignant stories and real-life cases.
Presenters:
Ronald Taylor, President and CEO, Detroit Area Agency on Aging, Detroit, MI
[biography]
Ronald Taylor, President & CEO of Detroit Area Agency on Aging, leads efforts to serve 45,000 seniors annually, championing innovation, equity, and care for aging adults. His 30-year career spans all levels, earning him awards and board positions dedicated to improving the lives of seniors and reducing disparities.
Thomas Adams, President, Chance for Life, Detroit, MI
[biography]
Thomas J. Adams, a Detroit native and Tuskegee graduate, is President of both TJA Staffing and the Chance for Life program. With decades of executive and community leadership, he has advanced major civic and nonprofit initiatives, earning recognition for impactful service and lasting contributions throughout Detroit.
W77) Skipping Meals, Stacking Risks: Food Insecurity, Chronic Conditions and Quality of Life
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
In 2022, 7 million older adults in America were food insecure, and older adults are more likely to be food insecure if they have a disability or chronic health condition. Food insecurity can exacerbate existing chronic health conditions, lead to the development of new health issues and negatively affect mental health. Using data from National Core Indicators—Aging and Disabilities® (NCI-AD) Adult Consumer Survey, we will explore the relationship between those who report that they have to skip meals due to financial concerns and the effect that has on quality-of-life outcomes, such as access to their community and other unmet needs. We will also share examples of efforts to address barriers to food security and increase benefits access and enrollment.
Presenters:
Rosa Plasencia, Director National Core Indicators-Aging and Disabilities, ADvancing States, Arlington, VA
[biography]
Rosa Plasencia is the Director of NCI-AD at ADvancing States and also participates in work related to long term services and supports policy, equity initiatives, and No Wrong Door/ADRC. Prior to this role she worked in state government, as a Title III-B legal services provider, and with healthcare focused nonprofits.
Stephanie Giordano, Co-Director, National Core Indicators, Human Services Research Institute, Cambridge, MA
[biography]
Stephanie co-directs the National Core Indicators project. Her work is driven by a passion for bettering the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families. Stephanie’s areas of expertise lie in survey implementation methodology and techniques (including population-specific techniques), surveyor training, quality assurance, stakeholder engagement, and user-friendly dissemination.
W78) From Grandparents Raising Grandchildren to Supporting All Kinship Families—A Tailored Approach
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Since 2012, the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (GRG) Initiative in San Diego County has evolved into a central hub of resources to support kinship caregivers, addressing the unique challenges faced by relatives raising children. Our presentation will explore the evolution of the GRG initiative, highlighting countywide services, community partnerships, cross-systems partnerships and best practices that support kinship families. Participants will learn about comprehensive services, such as educational symposiums and engaging family activities that foster connection, to strengthen community well-being through partner collaboration. Attendees will leave with insights into developing impactful kinship support initiatives informed by caregiver feedback, emphasizing culturally relevant resources, such as bilingual newsletters and tailored outreach strategies. Discover how this model fosters trust, promotes family well-being and strengthens the network of kinship caregivers.
Presenters:
Katherine Gordon, Health Planning and Program Manager, County of San Diego, Health and Human Services Agency, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Katherine Gordon, MPA, is a Health Planning and Program Specialist with expertise in public administration, health education, and gerontology. She advances equitable community initiatives and strengthens support for older adults through cross-sector systems collaboration, applying an intergenerational programming lens to promote inclusive, connected, and resilient communities.
Leslie Escobedo, Community Health Promotion Specialist, County of San Diego, Health and Human Services Agency, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Leslie Escobedo is a first-generation professional with an MPH committed to empowering community health. As a proud Latina, she advances outreach, program coordination, and health education, supporting Spanish-speaking and underrepresented communities in an effort to expand equitable access to resources that promote community well-being and long-term resilience.
Mariah Williams, Program Coordinator, County of San Diego, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Mariah Williams is the Program Coordinator for Kinship Care & Community Engagement Support with the County of San Diego, Child & Family Well-Being Department. She helps to create a kin-first culture within the agency, and she is ultimately committed to advancing justice, equity, and community healing.
11:30 AM
1:00 PM
Community Care Corps and Innovations in Caregiving Services and Supports Networking Lunch (by invitation only)
11:45 AM
1:15 PM
Lunch on Your Own
1:00 PM
3:00 PM
Mobile Workshops
1:00 PM
3:00 PM
Mobile Workshops
MW02) Innovative Approaches to Affirming Aging Services for San Diego’s LGBTQ+ Older Adults
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Pre-registration required.
Join us in this mobile workshop with The San Diego LGBT Community Center and see how this center supports LGBTQ+ and HIV+ older adults through affirming, community-based services. Participants will learn about Senior Services’ health and wellness programming, case management and partnerships with the AAA (Aging & Independence Services) that address the unique barriers faced by this population. The session will provide an overview of how Title III D and II IC programs, such as Feeling Fit Club and congregate meals, contribute to fall prevention, mobility, nutrition and overall health, while also emphasizing the importance of connection and affirmation. Attendees will gain insight into how culturally responsive services, collaboration, program design and community engagement strengthen health outcomes and create meaningful connections.
1:15 PM
2:15 PM
Workshops
1:15 PM
2:15 PM
Workshops
W81) Beyond Community Outreach: Adaptable Strategies for Engaging Providers, Partners and Hard-to-Reach Communities
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
How can AAAs strengthen their outreach ecosystem to better reach a wide range of communities, deepen connections and increase universal awareness of services that support aging well? This session shares practical strategies focused on fairness from Aging and Disability Services’ multi-approach outreach framework, including partnering with trusted community messengers, expanding language access, delivering health promotion workshops, promoting social connection, aligning internal systems and attaining the true resources needed for universal outreach and engagement. Presenters will highlight operational changes, key collaborations, capacity-building efforts, outcomes and lessons learned about engaging culturally and linguistically varied communities more effectively. Participants will engage in peer learning and leave with tools, budgeting considerations and partnership models they can adapt to enhance their own outreach and engagement of older adults and caregivers from different communities.
Presenters:
Jessica Gardner, Budget Policy Advisor, Aging and Disability Services, Seattle, WA
[biography]
Jessica Gardner, MSF, is the Budget Policy Advisor at the Aging and Disability Services of Seattle/King County. She oversees multiple lines of federal, state, and city revenue including Medicaid, Older Americans Act, King County levy funds and donations; and ensures that allocated funds comply with state and federal fiscal policies.
Phung Nguyen, ADS Planner, Aging and Disability Services, Seattle, WA
[biography]
Phung Nguyen, MPA, is the Planner at Aging and Disability Services for Seattle-King County where she supports language access and community engagement of diverse older adults and their caregivers for seven years. She has dedicated her career to meeting the unique needs of underrepresented communities for equitable services across systems.
Hla Waing, ADS Senior Planner, Aging and Disability Services, Seattle, WA
[biography]
Hla Yin Yin Waing, MPA, is a Senior Planner with Aging and Disability Services, where she coordinates Tribal 7.01 planning, manages the senior centers investment process, and co-leads the Outreach & Engagement Pod. She brings 20+ years of experience in community engagement, equity-centered leadership, and collaborative systems-building across Seattle/King County.
W82) Building Impactful, Collaborative Caregiver Events: Engage Communities for Lasting Results
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Discover how to design and deliver a successful family caregiver event that truly makes a difference in your community. This session will explore strategies for creating highly engaging experiences that resonate with caregivers, drive measurable results and foster meaningful impact. Learn how to build collaborative partnerships across health care, nonprofit, business and faith sectors to ensure accessibility and sustainability. We’ll share practical tips for planning, marketing and executing events that not only educate but also inspire and empower caregivers. Whether you’re starting from scratch or enhancing an existing program, this interactive session will provide actionable insights and proven approaches to help you create events that strengthen community connections and improve caregiver well-being.
Presenters:
J. Cooper Linton, Entity Leader/Associate Vice President Duke HomeCare & Hospice at Duke University Health System, Duke Health, Durham, NC
[biography]
With over 25 years of experience in hospice, home health, home infusion, and community-based care, I am a healthcare executive who leads operations and growth initiatives for Duke HomeCare & Hospice, a part of Duke University Health System.
Nicole Clagett, Director of Caregiver Support and Community Development, Duke Health, Durham, NC
[biography]
Being an advocate for people affected by chronic, severe, and life-limiting illnesses is a passion of mine. With over 25 years of experience working with older adults and their caregivers as a trained social worker, I have had the opportunity to serve individuals both personally and professionally.
W83) Person-Centered Approaches in the SMP, SHIP and MIPPA Programs
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Each day, we create opportunities, face challenges and gain experiences that shape how we serve others. Recognizing that every person’s journey is unique, the U.S. Administration for Community Living partnered with the National Center on Advancing Person-Centered Practices and Systems (NCAPPS) and the Human Services Research Institute (HSRI) to strengthen Senior Medicare Patrol, Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program, and Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA) grantee competencies in Person-Centered Thinking (PCT) Practices. NCAPPS defines PCT as focusing language, values and actions on respecting individuals and their loved ones, emphasizing quality of life, well-being and informed choice. This session introduces key PCT concepts and terminology, guided reflection, group discussion, strategies for asking demographic questions and practical tools. Although developed for specific grantees, the PCT tools are valuable for anyone working in client service organizations.
Presenters:
Maggie Flowers, MIPPA Program Director, Office of Healthcare Information and Counseling, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Maggie Flowers is Medicare Program Director at the Administration for Community Living, leading the MIPPA program to help older adults and people with disabilities access Medicare and low-income benefits. She has extensive experience in economic security and aging services and holds degrees from Texas A&M University and UT Austin.
Melissa Simpson, Assistant Director, Office of Healthcare Information and Counseling, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Melissa Simpson has extensive experience building partnerships to support grantees and Medicare beneficiaries at the state and national level. Previous work includes senior program manager at the National Council on Aging and the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) director in Arkansas. She holds a Master of Public Administration.
W85) Rebuilding After the Storm: Lessons in Survival and Resilience After Hurricane Helene
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
In the wake of a devastating Hurricane Helene, our community has shown tremendous strength—especially among our older residents. This workshop is designed to capture that resilience by sharing best practices, innovative ideas, and lived experiences that can improve disaster response for older adults. Join us as we learn, plan, and build a stronger, more prepared community for the future.
Presenter:
LeeAnne Tucker, Area Agency on Aging Director, Land of Sky Regional Council, Asheville, NC
W86) The Dementia Friendly America Movement—An Opportunity for EVERYONE to Engage
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Dementia Friendly America (DFA) envisions a nation where people living with dementia and their care partners can live and engage fully, no matter where they reside. The DFA Movement is increasing dementia awareness; reducing stigma; and providing high-quality resources, education and support that enables the creation of dementia-friendly communities. Serving as the backbone of a movement comprised of a national network of communities, organizations and individuals, DFA fosters collaboration and cultivates dementia-friendly practices across the United States. This session will offer an overview of DFA’s core pillars: Dementia Friends, Dementia Friendly Communities, the Memory Cafe Alliance, and the Giving Voice Network of Dementia Friendly Choirs. There are opportunities for everyone to engage. Come to this session to learn how to join this growing movement!
Presenters:
Jennifer Hammer, Assistant Director, Dementia Friendly America, USAging, Washington, DC
Mary Ek, Director, Dementia Friendly America and Community Care Corps, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Mary Ek is the Program Director for Dementia Friendly America, a national initiative administered by USAging. Through her work, Mary supports dementia-friendly communities and Dementia Friends administrators by providing technical assistance, facilitating webinars and collaboration among stakeholders and managing the development and sharing of dementia-resources.
W87) From Concept to Care: Creating Sustainable Housing Solutions With Managed Care Organizations
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
This session explores how a AAA partnered with a managed care organization to launch a strategic housing pilot serving high-risk, homeless older adults. Learn how we built a multidisciplinary team, developed a sustainable cost model and collaborated with community partners to address complex care needs through innovative care management. Attendees will gain practical insights on designing and implementing similar programs, forging payor partnerships and overcoming real-world challenges in housing stability for vulnerable populations.
Presenters:
Michael Kroeker, Project Manager, Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging, Pittsburgh, PA
[biography]
Michael is a Project Manager at the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging. He brings a social work lens and public health lens to human services. Michael’s role as a Project Manager focuses on aligning internal systems, improving communications, creating programs, and process improvement.
Rainna Bernesser, Director of Special Services and Strategic Planning Bureau, Allegheny County Area Agency of Aging, Pittsburgh, PA
[biography]
Rainna Bernesser, MSW, MPA is the force behind Allegheny County's Care Transitions Program as a leader in quality performance. She has built and continues to refine an effective and forward-thinking process improvement for CCTP. Rainna has 19 years’ experience working with AAA.
W88) Measuring Impact to Support Sustainability of Social Connection Programs
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Effective measurement and evaluation are essential for ensuring your social connection program’s sustainability. This workshop will equip AAAs with tools and strategies to pursue these critical activities. Attendees will learn about evaluation strategies and outcomes from Commit to Connect’s latest community of practice (CoP), which focused on analyzing the social connection impact of Chronic Disease Self-Management programs. Participants will also learn about new measures used to evaluate social connection programs in that CoP. Additionally, we will share insights from the Strengthening Social Connection in Communities initiative about grantee evaluation activities. Participants will leave with practical strategies to quantify program impact and support sustainability goals.
Presenters:
Katie Clark, Policy Analyst, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Katie is a Policy Analyst at the Administration for Community Living and leads the Commit to Connect Initiative, a cross-sector initiative promoting social engagement and connection.
Matthew Lee Smith, Associate Professor, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
[biography]
Dr. Matthew Lee Smith is an associate professor in the Texas A&M School of Public Health. As an evaluator and interventionist, his research addresses health risk across the life-course and the uptake of evidence-based solutions for older adults. Dr. Smith’s translational work bridges research and practice issues across sectors.
Meredith Hanley, Program Director, Commit to Connect, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Meredith Hanley serves as a Program Director overseeing USAging’s work relation to social connection, caregiving services and supports and kinship care.
W89) Empowering Adults: Safe Haven for Survivors of Abuse, Neglect and Crime
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
This session explores the unique challenges faced by older adult victims of abuse, neglect, exploitation and crime. A panel of experts in elder care, victim advocacy and social services will highlight the prevalence of elder abuse, share data and trends, and introduce the Safe Haven model: a community-based, collaborative, noninstitutional service delivery framework currently operating in 13 Michigan counties. Attendees will learn the model’s key components, lessons from implementation and strategies for replication to meet the needs of their own communities. Through case studies and Q&A, participants will gain practical tools to strengthen safety, dignity and empowerment for older adults while fostering cross-sector collaboration to build comprehensive support networks.
Presenters:
Kathy Greenlee, Senior Director of Elder Justice Initiatives, ADvancing States, Arlington, VA
[biography]
Kathy Greenlee is a visionary thought leader, policy expert, and advocate with over 20 years of executive experience in health and human services at the international, national, and state level. She currently serves as Senior Director of Elder Justice Initiatives at ADvancing States, based in Washington, DC and Kansas City.
Nichole Baker, Chief Services Officer, WellWise Services, Jackson, MI
[biography]
Nichole Baker is the Chief Services Officer at WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging, in South Central Michigan. Nichole leads program development, advocacy, and grant-funded initiatives, with a focus on community planning and systems analysis. She’s served in a variety of roles with area nonprofits providing clinical supervision and direct community services.
Kara Lorenz-Goings, Chief Executive Officer, WellWise Services, Jackson, MI
[biography]
Kara has been with WellWise Services for more than 11 years and was named Chief Executive Officer in May 2025. Kara brings more than 20 years of experience in LongTerm Supports and Services including serving as Deputy Director at the Jackson Department on Aging and consulting for nursing facilities.
W90) Caregiver Support and Connection Program: Innovating Care Through AAA and Health Care Collaboration
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
This sessions highlights an innovative partnership between The Erie County Department for the Aging and Erie County Medical Center designed to strengthen support for family caregivers during one of the most stressful moments they face: hospitalization. By connecting directly with caregivers at the bedside, the program identifies their needs early and links them with essential community supports and services. This proactive approach helps prevent caregiver burnout, reduces avoidable hospital readmissions,and ensures patients return home to a safer, more stable environment. Attendees will learn how this collaboration bridges health care and aging services, the impact it is having on caregiver well-being, and practical steps for replicating this model to improve outcomes in their own community.
Presenters:
Kimberly Leonard, Assistant Long-Term Care Coordinator, Erie County Department for the Aging, Buffalo, NY
[biography]
As The Assistant Long-Term Care Coordinator, Kimberly’s role is to oversee and expand caregiver services and support provided by Erie County Department for the Aging and look for ways to partner with community agencies. As a caregiver herself, Kimberly understands the need for additional services and support for our caregivers.
Kathryn Sullivan, Social Worker, Erie County Medical Center Palliative Care & Supportive Medicine, Buffalo, NY
[biography]
Kate has a Master’s in Social Work from the University at Buffalo and works with the Palliative Care and Supportive Medicine team at Erie County Medical Center. Helping patients and their caregivers is very important to Kate.
Kate enjoys spending time with her husband, son and two dogs.
2:30 PM
3:30 PM
Workshops
2:30 PM
3:30 PM
Workshops
W91) ACL Discussion Session for Regions 8, 9 and 10
Focus Area: Not Applicable - General Session
Note: This session is only open to AAAs and Title VI programs.
Join your AAA/Title VI peers in your regions for an open dialogue with U.S. Administration for Community Living senior leaders. Bring your questions, concerns and successes from the AAA/Title VI perspective to share with our federal partners.
Presenters:
Adam Mosey, Special Assistant, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Adam Mosey currently serves as a Special Assistant at the Administration on Aging, one of ACL’s programmatic Centers, where he works on key policy and program issues related to the Older Americans Act. He also concurrently serves as a Sergeant First Class in the Army National Guard.
Alice Kelsey, Deputy Director, Administration on Aging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Alice Kelsey is the Deputy Director for the Administration on Aging. She has 15 years’ experience in the Aging Network and holds a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs.
Kari Benson, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Kari Benson serves as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging for the Administration on Aging. Kari has spent her entire career in the aging network and holds degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota.
W92) Medically Tailored Home-Delivered Meals: A Healthy-Aging Service
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
The Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging partnered with Age-Friendly Greater Pittsburgh, care management providers, and our home-delivered meals network to create a referral pathway connecting older adults with hypertension to medically tailored meals and supportive services. This cross-sector initiative integrates recruitment protocols across three AAA touchpoints, SeniorLine, Options Care Management, and Community-Based Services, creating multiple access points to address chronic disease management, food insecurity and social isolation. In addition to meals, participants receive nutrition education and opportunities for social engagement to improve well-being. Now in Year 3, the project has served 200 participants, with a total goal of 400. Attendees will learn about the model and our toolkit.
Presenters:
Kenya Brown, Executive Assistant, Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging, Pittsburgh, PA
[biography]
Kenya is the Executive Assistant to the Director of the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging. She holds a Master of Social Work and a Master of Business Administration. She has five years of social work experience. Kenya is dedicated to improving the quality of life for older adults.
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Director of Aging Services, Allegheny County Department of Human Services Area Agency on Aging, Pittsburgh, PA
[biography]
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Ph.D., is Director of the Allegheny County DHS Area Agency on Aging. Since 2022, she has transformed services, reaching over 39,000 people annually. With extensive research and nonprofit leadership experience, she advances community-driven advocacy, earning recognition from USAging, The John A. Hartford Foundation, and Pittsburgh Business Times.
W93) Developing and Scaling Sustainable Community-Based Dementia Programs
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
It can be a reality! Sustainability in program development is at the core of the U.S. Administration for Community Living’s Alzheimer’s Disease Programs Initiative (ADPI) grants. This panel will discuss the ways in which grantees have planned for and are sustaining their federally funded programs after the grant has ended. Discussion will include strategies implemented to sustain programs, all informed by pilot programs and the use of solid evaluation data that shows impact of the program to secure financial support beyond a federal grant period.
Presenter:
Erin Long, Aging Services Program Specialist, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Coming soon
W94) Tactfully Teaching Tech to Older Adults Through Emotional Intelligence and Psychological Practices
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Empower your community by helping older adults navigate technology with confidence! This session goes beyond basic skills—it emphasizes emotional intelligence, awareness of age-related cognitive changes and psychological factors. You’ll learn proven strategies that make tech education enjoyable and effective for both instructors and learners. Join us to discover practical tips that promote digital fairness, build confidence and create meaningful connections. Technology isn’t just about skills—it’s a powerful tool for fostering social connection and supporting healthy aging. Whether you’re a program coordinator, volunteer, educator or caregiver, you’ll leave equipped with tools to make technology learning for older adults engaging and rewarding.
Presenters:
Sherri Carson, Director of Healthy Living, Connections Area Agency on Aging, Council Bluffs, IA
[biography]
Sherri is the Director of Healthy Living at Connections AAA in Council Bluffs, IA. Sherri has been with the agency since 1993, serving in her current role since 2000.
Meg von Lossnitzer, Director of Community Programs, Mystic Valley Elder Services, Malden, MA
[biography]
Meg is a dedicated program leader and skilled mentor with over twenty years of experience in the fields of public health, wellness, and prevention. Meg is skilled and experienced in the oversight and management of complex and multilevel grant funded programs.
W95) San Diego Scam Jam: A Collaborative Model to Build Scam Smart Communities
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
The San Diego Scam Jam Tour is a dynamic, multiagency initiative designed to educate older adults about financial fraud and provide the tools needed to protect themselves from fraud. This session will highlight the collaborative efforts between the County of San Diego, Aging & Independence Services; AARP California; San Diego Elder Justice Task Force; and other local partners. The collaboration successfully hosted fraud prevention events across the San Diego region, reaching more than 1,400 older adults, caregivers and professionals. This session will explore how the initiative was developed, the strategies used to engage communities representing varied populations and the measurable impact of fraud awareness and prevention. Attendees will learn how to replicate this collaborative model to build their own scam-smart communities.
Presenters:
Jennifer Yoon, Senior Adult Protective Services Specialist, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Jennifer Yoon is a Senior Adult Protective Services Specialist at Aging & Independence Services, a department of the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency. She leads efforts to protect older adults from abuse and exploitation. Her expertise lies in identifying and preventing elder fraud and scams.
Jonathan Tague, Outreach & Education Specialist, Aging & Independence Services, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Jonathan Tague (he/him) has over 15 years of experience working with older adults and people living with dementia, including a diverse background in care management, community education, and program and volunteer administration. He has a M.S. in Dementia and Aging Studies from Texas State University.
Tiffany Zhang, Community Engagement and Outreach Manager, AARP California, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
Tiffany Zhang is a Community Engagement and Outreach Manager at AARP California. Based in San Diego, she leads multicultural engagement, volunteer programs, and community education initiatives. With a background in public health, Tiffany advances AARP’s mission to help people age with confidence and build livable communities.
W97) Black Aging and Advocacy in Action Reimagined
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Older Black Californians encounter greater barriers to aging with dignity, health and community compared to others. This panel will identify gaps in behavioral health, wellness infrastructure and caregiving support, and propose culturally responsive reforms aligned with the California Master Plan on Aging (MPA). The focus is on investing in Black-led organizations, community models and culturally rooted care to reduce health disparities and promote statewide fairness for all. The panel’s goals are to reduce gaps in health access and outcomes for older Black Californians, elevate community-led wellness and behavioral health solutions, and reimagine caregiving for aging adults. Objectives include highlighting persistent health disparities; sharing empowering practices; discussing barriers and policy shifts; and fostering dialogue among advocates, policymakers and providers to strengthen wraparound services.
Presenters:
Bryan Gaines, Co-Chair Project Assistant, Advocates for African American Elders USC Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, Irvine, CA
[biography]
Dr. Bryan F. Gaines is Co-Director of Advocates for African American Elders at UCI CEHDR, providing culturally competent health education for low-income African American seniors. He holds degrees from USC in psychology and social work, and serves on aging committees and the Los Angeles Southwest College Foundation board.
Lenore Tate, Clinical & Forensic Psychologist, Public Policy Expert in Health & Aging ,Consultant & Trainer on Trauma, Wellness and Workplace Violence, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
Lenore A. Tate, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist committed to promoting mental and behavioral health and public policy. Dr. Tate has dedicated more than 30 years to mental health and public policy specializing in geriatric psychology, neuropsychology, and trauma. She is currently a member of the California Commission
Kelly Dearman, Executive Director, San Francisco Disability and Aging Services, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Executive Director, San Francisco Department of Disability and Aging Services (DAS). Kelly leads the City’s integrated aging and disability service system, supporting independence, dignity, and community living for more than 70,000 older adults and disabled residents.
W98) Volunteers at the Core: Driving Organizational Change
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
The Span Center’s two-year journey to Service Enterprise Accreditation transformed volunteer engagement, elevating volunteers from helpers to strategic partners. This process sparked significant organizational changes, including new leadership structures and a stronger volunteer voice in decision-making. At the core, it transformed how we viewed and engaged volunteers. In this interactive workshop, we’ll share the steps we took, the measurable impact on programs and culture, and practical strategies for AAAs seeking similar change. Attendees will learn how to leverage volunteer talent to strengthen mission delivery, build organizational capacity and create sustainable engagement practices that can be applied within their own programs and communities.
Presenters:
Carol Ayars, AmeriCorps Seniors Programs Manager, Senior Connections, The Capital Area Agency on Aging, Richmond, VA
[biography]
Carol Ayars, CVA has been in the volunteer engagement field for over 25 years and is the AmeriCorps Seniors Programs Manager at The Span Center, The Capital Area Agency on Aging. She also serves on several local, state and national boards related to field of volunteerism engagement.
Shana Beverly, Volunteer Services Manager, The Span Center, The Capital Area Agency on Aging, Richmond, VA
[biography]
Shana Beverly, CVA, is the Volunteer Services Manager at The Span Center, The Capital Area Agency on Aging. She develops and implements strategies for volunteer recruitment, retention, and recognition for the Center’s 200 plus volunteers and has helped foster their continually expanding culture of volunteerism.
Heather Fortune, Vice President of Advocacy and Engagement, Senior Connections, The Capital Area Agency on Aging, Richmond, VA
[biography]
Heather Fortune is the Vice President of Advocacy and Engagement with The SPAN Center, The Capital Area Agency on Aging. She serves on several boards and advisory councils related to aging and the community. Recently, she was honored as the 2025 Goochland Chamber of Commerce Young Professional of the
W99) Stronger Together: Driving Social Connectedness Through Regional Collaboration
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Isolation impacts all ages and AgeGuide is leading the charge to increase social connections. Join us for an engaging session that showcases how AgeGuide, its regional Health Departments, the Illinois Public Health Institute, and funded providers collaborated to strengthen social connectedness across the lifespan.
Discover how this initiative launched an eight-county Social Connectedness Awareness Campaign through cross-promotion and shared resources that built healthier communities. Learn how to align Community Needs Assessments and focus groups to track impact through consistent metrics and monthly reporting.
See how this collaboration expanded to include Aging and Disability Resource Networks and Nutrition providers creating joint events and resource sharing.
Walk away with actionable strategies, campaign insights, and a roadmap to replicate this success. Attend and see collaboration in action!
Presenters:
Leslie Edstrom, Director of Planning, Grants and Program Development, AgeGuide, Lombard, IL
[biography]
Leslie Edstrom is the Director of Planning, Grants, and Program Development at AgeGuide. She leads AgeGuide's advocacy, coordination, program development, and grant administration activities. Her mission is to ensure older adults remain independent and engaged in their communities.
Marla Fronczak, CEO, AgeGuide Northeastern IL, Lombard, IL
[biography]
Marla Fronczak is the CEO of AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois. She has a Master of Science in Nonprofit Management. Marla is the President of the Illinois Association of Area Agencies on Aging (I4A) and a member of the Milken Institute Alliance to Improve Dementia Care.
W101) Building a Successful Caregiver Coalition: A Blueprint for Community Support
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
This session will provide attendees with replicable frameworks for establishing, operating and sustaining a caregiver coalition to educate the community and increase access to resources. Attendees will hear from two different AAAs that took different approaches to developing their coalitions and are at different stages of coalition progress. The Caregiver Coalition of San Diego and Milwaukee Coalition for African American Caregivers will share the structure and goals of their coalitions, comprehensive programming developed by the coalitions and key outputs and outcomes. Attendees will receive tools and tips to create goal-oriented coalitions driven by volunteer members from local agencies. Coalitions can be tailored to meet unique community needs and align with AAA goals, ultimately improving the quality of life for caregivers.
Presenters:
Kayla Steinke, Caregiver Support Coordinator, Milwaukee County Aging & Disabilities Services, Milwaukee, WI
[biography]
Kayla Steinke is a Caregiver Support Coordinator at Milwaukee County Aging & Disabilities Services. She has had a variety of experiences working in the field of aging including direct case management, in-home care, advocacy, and program management to support wellness and independence for older adults.
Matthew Parcasio, Caregiver Programs and Outreach Coordinator, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Matthew is the Caregiver Programs Coordinator and Outreach Coordinator at Aging & Independence Services, a division of the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency. Matthew is committed to advancing the Live Well San Diego vision of a region that is building better health, living safely, and thriving.
W102) Beyond the Route: Innovating Mobility for People Who Are Hard to Reach
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Transportation that truly serves everyone requires creativity, collaboration and a willingness to reach beyond traditional service models, especially for older adults and people with disabilities living in hard-to-reach communities. This session highlights the Area Agency on Aging of Western Arkansas (AAWA), which operates Western Transit System (WTS), a rural, accessible transportation service in 11 counties. For 30 years, AAAWA has helped aging Arkansans stay independent, active and connected by providing dependable, accessible transportation to nonemergency medical appointments, essential errands and community activities. Its diverse fleet includes accessible vehicles equipped with ramps and lifts along with the latest technology in restraints. Additionally, WTS drivers receive specialized training in wheelchair securement and passenger assistance to safely handle passenger needs. The session will also feature the Utah Assistive Technology Program’s Lab on Wheels, a mobile service that brings assistive technology demonstrations, device loans, repairs, caregiver coaching, and home-safety guidance directly to rural communities where transportation and service access are limited. Partnerships with AAAs, Aging and Disability Resource Centers and community organizations strengthen coordination between assistive technology services and transportation providers, helping address mobility barriers and support independence for older adults and people with disabilities. The session will open with an overview of the Accessible Transportation Resource Center and its national role as a technical assistance center, highlighting the tools and technical assistance available to help communities build more accessible, inclusive transportation systems.
Presenters:
Bora Lee, Program Director, Utah Assistive Technology Program, Logan, UT
[biography]
Will add
Kyle Stiles, Director of Transportation, Area Agency On Aging Western Of Arkansas, Fort Smith, AR
[biography]
I am a Born and Raised Arkansan that moved back to his hometown in 2024 to fulfill a purpose of serving the community. I believe that we all achieve our purpose once we work for something larger than ourselves.
David Somers, Senior Research Associate, Transportation and Mobility, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Staff
3:45 PM
4:45 PM
Workshops
3:45 PM
4:45 PM
Workshops
W103) ACL Connections and Older Americans Act Updates
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
The U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL) leadership team provides support to the national Aging Network in a variety of ways. This session will introduce ACL leadership and provide attendees with timely updates on the administration of Older Americans Act (OAA) programs and how ACL supports the Aging Network. Bring your questions about the work of ACL, the OAA or other key aging efforts.
Presenters:
Adam Mosey, Special Assistant, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Adam Mosey currently serves as a Special Assistant at the Administration on Aging, one of ACL’s programmatic Centers, where he works on key policy and program issues related to the Older Americans Act. He also concurrently serves as a Sergeant First Class in the Army National Guard.
Alice Kelsey, Deputy Director, Administration on Aging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Alice Kelsey is the Deputy Director for the Administration on Aging. She has 15 years’ experience in the Aging Network and holds a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs.
3:45 PM
4:15 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
3:45 PM
4:15 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
FT42) Caring for Caregivers: How Technology Can Ease the Burdens
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Explore how technology can support caregivers, especially older adults, who face complex responsibilities and frequent stress. Drawing on insights from the recently published Caring for Caregivers: How Technology Can Ease the Burdens report from Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) From AARP, this session will highlight findings from a 350-person survey of older adults who identify as caregivers. We will address the gaps between technology’s promise of transformation and caregivers’ real needs and spotlight opportunities for stakeholders such as AAAs to improve access, usability and training on technologies. Attendees will gain actionable ideas for how they can help improve access to information, streamline care coordination and foster supportive communities.
Presenters:
Ryan Kawamoto, West Regional Program Manager, Older Adults Technology Services From AARP, Santa Clara, CA
[biography]
Ryan, a California Bay Area native, is the West Regional Program Manager. He is the former Executive Director of Yu-Ai Kai Japanese American Community Senior Service of San Jose and the former Chair of the Aging Services Collaborative of Santa Clara County. Ryan has an undergraduate degree in political science
Roberto Velasquez, President & CEO, Southern Caregiver Resource Center, Chula Vista, CA
[biography]
Roberto Velasquez is the President & CEO for Southern Caregiver Resource Center (SCRC) and has 38+ years in health and aging services. A San Diego State graduate, he pioneered programs for Latino caregivers and leads SCRC’s operation serving over 200,000 California families. He champions evidence-based care and and collaborative community.
FT43) Join the Nationwide Network of Champions
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
This interactive session is an orientation to joining and taking advantage of Commit to Connect’s Nationwide Network of Champions (NNOC)—a national platform for leaders committed to addressing social isolation and loneliness at the local, state or national level. Speakers will share the benefits of becoming a Champion and how the NNOC provides a forum for peer-to-peer collaboration. Engage in an interactive discussion to shape future developments in this platform and leave with new tools and a network to grow your social connection efforts.
Presenters:
Ali Fehlhaber, Program Manager, engAGED: USAging’s Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults, USAging, Washington, DC
Katie Clark, Policy Analyst, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Katie is a Policy Analyst at the Administration for Community Living and leads the Commit to Connect Initiative, a cross-sector initiative promoting social engagement and connection.
FT44) State Association and State Unit on Aging Leadership for Advancement
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
New York State has received more than $200 million in additional funding from the state government for documenting and advocating for unmet needs of older adults and family caregivers. The Association on Aging in New York has a strong partnership with the New York State Office for the Aging and has developed and implemented procedures to accurately reflect the unmet needs of the community. The association has further leveraged this partnership to make the economic case for investments that reduce Medicaid costs and increase access to home and community-based services. Additionally, this partnership has supported the creation of an Independent Practice Association housed within the Association on Aging to create pathways on behalf of the AAA network for insurers to pay on behalf of beneficiaries.
Presenters:
Rebecca Preve, Executive Director, Association on Aging in New York, Albany, NY
[biography]
Becky Preve is the Executive Director for the Association on Aging in New York, a member organization representing the 59 area agencies on aging in NY. The mission of the Association is to support and enhance the capacity of New York’s local area agencies on aging and to work in
Greg Olsen, Director, New York State Office for the Aging, Albany, NY
[biography]
Greg Olsen is the Acting Director of the New York State Office for the Aging where he is responsible for the oversight and day to day operations and the administration of federal and state funded programs designed to assist the more than 4.6 million older adult residents in the state.
FT45) Volunteers at the Core: Supporting Caregivers Through Faith-Based Programs
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
The Caring Together, Living Better (CTLB) Program thrives because of its dedicated volunteers, who act as trusted voices and bring devotion, love and creativity to every community they serve. AgeOptions empowers volunteers through tailored, individualized support, resources and tools helping them to leverage their unique strengths in service of their community. Each CTLB site is shaped by volunteers who design programming tailored to the needs of African American and Latinx caregivers and older adults. Join this session to hear stories, lessons learned and case examples, and explore how culturally humble, relationship-centered strategies can strengthen partnerships and create meaningful, safe spaces for all aging communities.
Presenters:
Cristina Diaz, Manager of Community Programs, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Cristina works as AgeOptions Manager of Community Programs overseeing the Caregiver, Nutrition and Aging with Pride Programs and other special projects. Cristina holds a master's in public health (MPH).
Cynthia Ayala, Caregiver and Dementia Programs Specialist, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Cynthia is the Caregiver and Dementia Programs Specialist at AgeOptions. Cynthia leads the Caring Together, Living Better (CTLB) Program, extends support to the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Program, and supports Dementia Friendly efforts.
FT46) Reaching New Audiences: Digital Innovation in SHIP and SMP Outreach
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Discover how AgeGuide’s Senior Health Insurance Program and Senior Medicare Patrol programs are breaking new ground in outreach technology by leveraging digital tools and creative strategies to connect with hard-to-reach populations. This session will showcase the use of targeted digital ad campaigns, interactive platforms like VideoAsk and multilingual Medicare videos to deliver more personalized and accessible information. Learn how video-based resources and innovative storytelling, such as The Age Guide Podcast, are empowering communities with knowledge and advocacy. Join us to explore how these cutting-edge approaches not only enhance audience engagement but also improve access to public benefits, ensuring that those who need services most are better informed and prepared to utilize them. Let’s transform outreach into a dynamic, welcoming and impactful experience.
Presenters:
Melissa Brackmann, Communications Specialist, AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois, Lombard, IL
[biography]
Melissa Brackmann is the Communications Specialist at AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois. As a seasoned Communications professional, she specializes in implementing strategic communications strategies to enhance an organization’s outreach. Melissa has worked in the field of aging for over 6 years and the field of Communications for over 10 years with experience
Val Guzman, Benefit Access Specialist, AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois, Lombard, IL
[biography]
Val Guzman is the Benefit Access Specialist with AgeGuide Northeastern. As a SHIP Coordinator, Val has been expanding the use of digital media to increase awareness of important Medicare cost saving benefits and to better connect with underserved communities.
FT47) Leveraging Electronic Health Records to Improve Dementia Detection and Diagnosis
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Dementia-causing diseases remain widely underdiagnosed, but integrating validated cognitive screening tools into electronic health record systems can dramatically improve early detection and patient outcomes. This session highlights the County of San Diego’s Healthy Brain Initiative project, offering key steps, best practices and lessons learned from implementing dementia screening workflows across four health systems. We will also share how AAAs and social services agencies can support these efforts.
Presenters:
Carolyn Kendle, Community Health Program Specialist, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Carolyn Kendle, MPH is a Community Health Program Specialist with the County of San Diego’s Aging & Independence Services. She oversees County initiatives, programs, and grants related to older adult fall prevention and dementia, including Dementia Friends, Tai Chi, and the Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program.
Roberto Ramirez, Health Promotion Manager, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Roberto currently serves as the Health Promotion Manager at the County of San Diego, Aging & Independence Services (AIS). At AIS, Roberto oversees the planning and implementation of various health and wellness programs and initiatives which aim to help older adults live healthy, safe, and thriving lives.
FT48) Interdepartmental Collaboration for Impactful Community Planning
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
When AAAs thoughtfully and intentionally bring together their programmatic and fiscal departments for collaboration throughout the annual and multi-year planning process, it makes for more effective community plans and agency budgets. Often, programmatic and fiscal departments operate in silos, making it difficult for agencies to respond to unforeseen funding shifts, contract variances and new initiatives. But collaboratively drafted agency plans drive effective contract management, foster innovation and creativity (especially with stagnant funding) and better meet the needs of community members. This session proposes a foundational framework for programmatic and fiscal department collaboration and offers ready-to-use tools and workflows for immediate implementation.
Presenters:
Malloree Colburn, Controller, WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging, Brooklyn, MI
[biography]
Malloree Colburn serves as the Controller for WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging. Her role at the agency has grown since she joined the Agency in 2019, making Malloree an expert on all aspects of the Agency's fiscal infrastructure.
Nichole Baker, Chief Services Officer, WellWise Services, Jackson, MI
[biography]
Nichole Baker is the Chief Services Officer at WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging, in South Central Michigan. Nichole leads program development, advocacy, and grant-funded initiatives, with a focus on community planning and systems analysis. She’s served in a variety of roles with area nonprofits providing clinical supervision and direct community services.
FT49) Housing Connections: SMAA and Legal Services for Maine Elders’ Eviction Prevention Program
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Southern Maine Agency on Aging’s (SMAA) Housing Connections program helps people to stay in their homes and search for housing if they need it. We will do a deep dive into a critical piece of Housing Connections, SMAA and Legal Services for Maine Elders’ Eviction Prevention Program. Learn why SMAA initiated this pilot, how the interagency collaboration works and what its impact has been for older adults. Case scenarios and data will bring the program to life for attendees, who will be given tips and resources for replicating this program in their own communities.
Presenter:
Renee Longarini, Chief Operating Officer, Southern Maine Agency on Aging, Biddeford, ME
[biography]
Renee Longarini, Chief Operating Officer of Southern Maine Agency on Aging, leads strategy and operations across three regional centers serving older adults, adults with disabilities, and caregivers. With more than 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience, she focuses on innovative programs and systems that strengthen community-based aging services.
4:30 PM
5:00 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
4:30 PM
5:00 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
FT50) Community Care Hub Contracting: A Retrospective Look at Health Care Contracting
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Has your organization taken the leap into contracting within the medical and health insurance world? Whether you are still studying or a seasoned veteran in the contracting world, this session will explore the journey from a retrospective viewpoint and provide a roadmap of potential rewards and pitfalls. The new model of developing partnerships within the medical providers and health insurance communities to impact the whole-person outcomes is still new to many community-based organizations and community care hubs. This session will explore contracting from a 20/20 hindsight viewpoint and compare early assumptions to latter-day hard-learned experiences. Various contracting models and their different implementation impacts will be discussed. Attendees will be encouraged to share their own lessons learned.
Presenters:
Dave Crocker, Director, Community Care and Community Based Services, Southern Alabama Regional Council on Aging, Dothan, AL
[biography]
Later
Nikki Kmicinski, Executive Director, Western New York Integrated Care Collaborative, Inc., Buffalo, NY
[biography]
Executive Director Western New York integrated Care Collaborative, Nikki is leading a Community Care Hub for a regional network which includes AAAs, ILCs and CBOs committed to improving health in Western NY. Nikki obtained her Bachelor and Masters degrees at Rochester Institute of Technology and is a Registered Dietitian.
FT51) Maintaining Independence in a Shrinking World: Living Alone With Memory Loss
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
We all know that there are numerous changes that accompany aging in place that lead to stress and frustration for older adults. Imagine attempting to navigate these changes alone while also coming to terms with memory loss or a dementia diagnosis. This session will focus on an especially vulnerable population: individuals who are living alone with dementia and do NOT have an identified caregiver. The CRIS Healthy Aging Memory Support Program, funded by the U.S. Administration for Community Living, is exploring how to provide effective support and services to fill this gap. Join us to learn about our initial thoughts for working with these individuals and help us brainstorm solutions to ongoing challenges. We will review case studies of real clients we have served and engage in an open-forum discussion.
Presenters:
Samantha Rogers, CRIS Memory Support Program Specialist, CRIS Healthy Aging, Champaign, IL
[biography]
With a background in Community Health, Samantha brings knowledge and compassion to family caregivers of persons with dementia. She strives to help clients feel seen and heard, offering solutions and encouraging self-care.
Skye Satz, Memory Support Program Manager, CRIS Healthy Aging, Champaign, IL
[biography]
Skye Satz is the Memory Support Program Manager at CRIS Healthy Aging. This program supports unpaid family caregivers of persons with dementia using evidence-based interventions and offers training to community members and local professionals to understand memory loss and brain health. Skye enjoys teaching exercise for both body and brain!
FT52) Grow Your Operations and Enhance Your Impact With USAging Consultants
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
This interactive session will offer an opportunity to meet expert national consultants and learn how they support and collaborate with organizations like yours. Through brief presentations, consultants will share examples of their work and identify challenges they have helped organizations address. This session will showcase strategies they’ve used to support capacity building efforts, creating business efficiencies and preparing for new strategic partnerships. Attendees will have the opportunity to tap into expert insights by engaging in breakout discussions to ask questions and explore scenarios relevant to your work, as well as experiencing in real time how consultants strategically think through operational issues and partnership opportunities. Learn how USAging consultants can support your efforts to expand capacity, enhance operations and strengthen your organization’s ability to respond to new opportunities.
Presenters:
Maya Op de Beke, Senior Program Manager, Aging and Disability Institute, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Maya Op de Beke is the is the Program Manager for USAging’s Aging and Disability Business Institute, focused on supporting community-based organizations (CBOs) in their pursuit to strengthen partnerships with the health care system. She has a Master of Science degree in Gerontology and a Bachelor of Science in
Paul Cantrell, Director, Center of Excellence to to Align Health and Social Care, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
More than 30 years of experience in managed care and social service organizational leadership and consulting. Experience includes: State Insurance Regulator, Managed Care Corporate Director, AAA Hub Executive Director, and 10+ years USAging, SUA, state AAA association and AAA consulting.
FT53) Building Agency Visibility Through Strategic Marketing, Branding and Measurable Outreach
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
AAAs are facing rising community needs, increasing competition for attention and persistent misunderstandings and misconceptions across communities about the services they provide. This session highlights how one AAA launched a strategic marketing and branding campaign that significantly improved public awareness; strengthened Aging and Disability Resource Unit protocols and data collection; and increased engagement among older adults, caregivers, community-based organizations and stakeholders. Presenters will share how they developed a unified brand identity, modernized messaging, built a multichannel outreach strategy and used analytics to measure what worked—and what didn’t. Participants will leave with practical templates for message testing, campaign planning and evaluating return-on-outreach investments. This session is designed to help AAAs enhance their visibility, build trust and connect more effectively with residents.
Presenters:
Kimberly Johnson, Director, Area Agency on Aging, Montgomery County Government Department of Health and Human Services, Rockville, MD
[biography]
Dr. Kimberly Johnson, Ph.D., LCSW-C, leads Montgomery County’s Area Agency on Aging, overseeing programs that support older adults in aging in place. With expertise in aging services, emergency preparedness, and care management, she is also an educator and advocate committed to enhancing the lives of Maryland’s aging population.
Patrice McGhee, Chief, Aging & Disability Services, Montgomery County Government Department. of Health and Human Services, Rockville, MD
[biography]
Dr. Patrice L. McGhee is the Chief of Aging and Disability Services for Montgomery County, MD, leading programs that advance independence and equity for older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers. With 15+ years of cross-sector leadership, she drives reforms that expand access, improve outcomes, and elevate resident voice.
FT55) Bridging Care Through Culture: The CHW Approach to Supporting Caregivers of All Backgrounds
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Family caregivers are navigating increasingly complex health care and social service systems, often while balancing cultural expectations, language barriers and limited support. This session explores how community health workers (CHWs) strengthen caregiver outcomes by providing culturally grounded communication, trusted guidance and navigation support that traditional systems may overlook. Real examples will be shared of CHWs using shared language, cultural insight and community relationships to reduce caregiver stress, improve access to resources and close gaps in support. Participants will learn strategies for embedding CHWs into caregiver programs, including culturally competent messaging, language-concordant support and partnership models that reflect community values. Evidence from fieldwork and caregiver feedback demonstrates increased trust, improved program engagement and better follow-through when CHWs are integrated into support efforts.
Presenter:
Alida Coutino, Network Coordinator, Area Agency on Aging of the Capital Area, Austin, TX
[biography]
Alida Coutino is a strategic public health professional and CHW Instructor advancing aging equity across Central Texas. As Network Coordinator for the Aging Services Council and ADRC, she leads digital inclusion efforts, cross-sector partnerships, and media outreach—bridging services for older adults through culturally grounded, trust-based, and community-driven solutions.
FT56) Championing Change: Advancing Aging Advocacy Through Grass Roots Media Engagement
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Unlock the power of media to amplify your aging advocacy! Whether you serve a rural community, a bustling city or a metropolitan hub, connecting with the press can feel daunting—but this seminar will show you how to turn challenges into opportunities. Discover demonstrated strategies to build strong, lasting media partnerships that elevate your message and expand your reach. Learn how to position yourself as the go-to expert journalists want to interview when aging issues make headlines. Through interactive conversations, you’ll gain practical tips, fresh ideas and innovative approaches to engage across platforms—from local news and radio to state and national outlets. Step out inspired, confident and prepared to transform your advocacy voice into a powerful force for change.
Presenter:
Carol Brown, Program Development & Advocacy Manager, WACOG's Area Agency on Aging, Yuma, AZ
[biography]
Carol is the Program Development and Advocacy Manager for the Western Arizona Council of Governments – Area Agency on Aging Region IV. Ms. Brown serves as lead coordinator and developer of resources for the Area Agency on Aging and its programs including managing public relations and advocacy campaigns.
FT57) Modernizing Our Meal Program in Warp-Speed Time (Because We Had To!)
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
One agency unexpectedly had to transition their entire meal service program in less than four weeks. Hear about the successes and pitfalls of our journey from July 2025 to January 2026 as we completely modernized our meal program!
Presenters:
Sherri Carson, Director of Healthy Living, Connections Area Agency on Aging, Council Bluffs, IA
[biography]
Sherri is the Director of Healthy Living at Connections AAA in Council Bluffs, IA. Sherri has been with the agency since 1993, serving in her current role since 2000.
Kelly Butts-Elston, CEO, Connections Area Agency on Aging, Council Bluffs, IA
[biography]
Kelly Butts-Elston is the CEO of Connections Area Agency on Aging serving 20 counties in western and southwestern Iowa. Kelly has worked at the agency for 23 years, serving as a division director until 2013 when she became the Associate Director before assuming her current role in February of 2017.
5:15 PM
5:45 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
5:15 PM
5:45 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
FT59) Safeguarding Services, Strengthening Connections: Program Integrity for Aging and Disabled Services
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
This session explores how the San Bernardino County Department of Aging and Adult Services–Public Guardian Program Integrity Unit protects vulnerable populations while reinforcing trust in services for older adults and people with disabilities. Participants will learn best practices in fraud prevention, documentation accuracy and compliance monitoring within In-Home Supportive Services. We will highlight how proactive program oversight reduces risk; ensures fair and effective service delivery; and strengthens social connections between agencies, providers and clients. The presentation will also highlight a specific strategy in working with the county’s Revenue Recovery Division to recover overpayments and further support fiscal responsibility. Attendees will leave with practical tools to implement integrity measures into daily operations, fostering transparency and accountability.
Presenters:
Jakob McCarthy, Deputy Director, San Bernardino County, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
Jakob McCarthy joined San Bernardino County in 2015, following a decade of public relations in the private sector. During his 11 years with the Department of Aging and Adult Services-Public Guardian, Mr. McCarthy has provided oversight for the Adult Protective Services, In-Home Supportive Services, and Area Agency on Aging programs.
Laura Mercuri Lopez, District Manager, San Bernardino County, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
Laura Mercuri Lopez has 15 years of social services experience, joining the Department of Aging and Adult-Service Public Guardian in 2019. Ms. Mercuri Lopez has served as a social worker and supervisor for the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Program and is currently the Manager for the IHSS Program Integrity Unit.
FT60) Beyond Navigation: The Evolving Role of OAA Information Assistance
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Join us for a discussion of the role of information and referral as a system, service and process supporting access to information, services and supports for older adults, caregivers and people with disabilities. Hear about Aging and Disability Resource Center and No Wrong Door activities that have expanded approaches to accessing information for long-term services and supports. Learn what lies ahead for the professionalism of specialists in the information and referral/assistance field. Engage in a discussion of AI and how it is shaping approaches to serving a growing and increasingly complex audience of information seekers.
Presenter:
Bernice Hutchinson, Aging Services Program Specialist, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
PCI, Required Session
FT62) Caregiver Burnout: Triage, Prevention and Wraparound Support
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Over the last several years, providing respite has been our main strategy to support family caregivers. However, after experiencing a revolving door of crisis situations, we took action to get ahead of caregiver burnout. We applied three primary solutions: 1) launching an aging life care planning and dementia navigation program; 2) collaborating with multiple agencies, providers,and community resources to create the Elder Care Workgroup to address service gaps; 3) designing a referral process with the crisis assistance teams for after-crisis care. Now caregivers are getting connected to resources earlier and experiencing broader community support throughout multiple phases of caregiving. These strategies rely upon collaboration and creatively leveraging current resources, opening the door to duplicating these ideas and services in other rural areas facing similar challenges.
Presenter:
Carla Dyment, Director, Flathead County Agency on Aging, Kalispell, MT
[biography]
Carla Dyment grew up in Bigfork, Montana and has been the Director for Flathead County Agency on Aging in Kalispell, Montana for four years. Carla previously worked as a Pastor of Family and Student Ministries for 15 years. Carla’s degrees include an MBA, MDIV, and DMIN.
FT63) Guide Drop! A New Resource for Host Agencies of Local Ombudsman Programs
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Join us as we launch a new guide just for you! This session is your front-row seat to a new resource designed specifically for AAAs) that host local ombudsman entities. Shaped by real-world experiences, our new guide draws directly on insights from host agency leaders (e.g., AAA Directors), state ombudsmen, and local ombudsman program representatives. The guide reviews the federal requirements of the ombudsman program, especially those for host agencies and representatives, and will assist host agency leadership in understanding the uniqueness of the program. Attendees will have the opportunity to share successes and challenges among peers, discuss management scenarios and learn about a new tool that can be used right away.
Presenter:
Amity Overall-Laib, Director of the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center, The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care, Washington, DC
[biography]
Prior to her current role she was a local long-term care ombudsman in Texas. She managed a program that served long-term care residents in twelve counties and was a member of the Board of Directors for the National Association of Local Long Term Care Ombudsmen.
FT64) Supporting Caregivers Navigating Challenging Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Alzheimer’s and Associated Conditions
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS)—such as agitation, hallucinations, delusions, anxiety, sleep disturbances and personality changes—impact up to 90 percent of people living with Alzheimer’s and related cognitive decline. These symptoms are among the most difficult for caregivers to manage and often drive stress, crisis situations and avoidable transitions to higher levels of care. This session highlights Caregiver Action Network’s (CAN) national efforts to support caregivers facing NPS through practical tools, targeted education and peer-based learning. Participants will explore insights from CAN’s Navigating Alzheimer’s modules, caregiver narratives from the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Summit, and strategies rooted in real caregiver experiences. Attendees will gain replicable approaches to help families interpret symptoms, reduce distress and strengthen confidence—while improving coordination across AAAs, Aging and Disability Resource Centers, and community aging-services partners.
Presenters:
Marvell Adams Jr., Chief Executive Officer, Caregiver Action Network, Washington, DC
[biography]
Marvell Adams Jr. is the CEO of Caregiver Action Network, leading national efforts to improve life for millions of family caregivers. He founded W Lawson, advancing inclusive, supportive communities for older adults. An Eisner Prize Fellow, Marvell serves on multiple boards and lives in Baltimore with his family.
Nichole Goble, Director of Community Initiatives, Caregiver Action Network, Washington, DC
[biography]
Nichole Goble is Director of Community Initiatives at Caregiver Action Network, leading national programs, partnerships, and resources for family caregivers. With 15 years in nonprofit leadership, including roles at CAN, The Arc, and The National Alliance to Advance Adolescent Health, she champions inclusive, impactful support for caregivers nationwide.
FT65) Home Is Where I Belong: Elder Homelessness Workforce Training That Changes Practice
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Home Is Where I Belong is a new, scalable training model that equips professionals to better serve older adults experiencing homelessness through narrative, trauma-informed and anti-ageist practice. Built from oral housing histories and a national photonarrative project, the program provides practical tools that improve empathy, communication and person-centered planning. Early pilots with more than 200 providers showed meaningful changes in how staff understood how to support clients, with participants reporting improved skills. The online course and implementation toolkit enable AAAs to adopt the model with immediate applicability. Attendees will hear from a AAA with direct experience using the method and learn how it can be replicated in AAAs and partners as we work to address the rapidly growing crisis of elders experiencing homelessness.
Presenters:
Gigi Amateau, Assistant Professor and Director, Person-Centered, Trauma-Informed Care Lab, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
[biography]
Gigi Amateau serves as a VCU Gerontology Assistant Professor for the Virginia Commonwealth University Department of Gerontology. She focuses on developing person-centered, trauma-informed approaches, capacity-building within the home and community-based services network, and teaching.
Amy Strite, President/CEO, The SPAN Center, Richmond, VA
[biography]
Amy Strite, MSW, LCSW, is President & CEO of The Span Center. With 30+ years of nonprofit leadership, she advances systems-level change through person-centered, trauma-informed, and equity-driven practices. Amy is known for strategic vision, strong partnerships, and mission-focused leadership, and serves on several statewide and regional boards.
Catherine MacDonald, Director of Community Engagement and Outreach, VCU Gerontology and the Virginia Center on Aging, Richmond, VA
[biography]
Catherine MacDonald is Director of Community Engagement and Outreach and Undergraduate Program with Virginia Commonwealth University’s Dept. of Gerontology and the Virginia Center on Aging. She currently teaches a course at VCU about ageism and diversity, and conducts community projects to change the way we think about aging.
Tuesday, July 21
7:30 AM
10:00 AM
Registration and Information Desk Open
7:30 AM
8:00 AM
Morning Refreshments
8:00 AM
9:30 AM
General Sessions
8:00 AM
9:30 AM
General Sessions
GS04) AAAs and AI: Understanding the AgeTech Landscape
The AgeTech market is booming and AAAs are flooded with AI options. Join us for this informative, exploratory and honest conversation that will help you make high-stakes decisions in the AgeTech space. This session will be a no-nonsense, leadership-level conversation about what AI in aging services actually is, what it can and cannot do, and what responsible adoption looks like at a AAA. We will explore the tension between the management logic of AI that reduces staff burden and the care logic that necessitates human judgment, intuition and connection. Join us to learn more about the unintended consequences of AI and leave the session with a practical evaluation framework that will assist you in vetting new AI tools that meet your needs for data collection, accountability structures, equity and organizational fit.
10:00 AM
11:00 AM
USAging New Board of Directors Meeting
Friday, July 17
8:30 AM
12:00 PM
USAging Board of Directors Meeting
12:00 PM
5:00 PM
Registration and Information Desk Open
1:00 PM
5:00 PM
Pre-Conference Intensives
PC01) Boot Camp for New Directors
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Are you a new AAA director interested in learning more about navigating your role? This must-attend Boot Camp will give you access to veteran and newer AAA directors’ knowledge and advice! Hear about which issues you can’t afford to ignore, how to approach key relationships, where the Aging Network is headed and more. Several “rookie” directors will also share what they learned in the first few years on the job. Bring your questions and be ready to find other new directors to network with. The Boot Camp will be followed by a networking reception for attendees.
This content may also be valuable to newer senior staff at AAAs. While the focus is geared toward AAAs, Title VI directors are welcome to attend!
Presenters:
Amy Gotwals, Chief, Public Policy and External Affairs, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
In her role, Amy leads USAging's public policy, advocacy, communications, external relations and membership relations activities. Representing local aging agencies, Amy serves as the lead in outreach to Congress and the Administration to ensure that needed resources and support services are available to older Americans and their caregivers.
Rebecca Levine, Director, Membership Engagement, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Rebecca Levine joined USAging in July 2014 and currently serves as Senior Manager, Membership, and Senior Program Manager, engAGED: The National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults. Rebecca holds a Master of Social Work from George Mason University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh.
Sandy Markwood, Chief Executive Officer, USAging, Washington, DC
Dana Corwin, Director, Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services, Mayville, NY
[biography]
Dana Corwin, RN, has 35 years of geriatric nursing experience and 19 years with the Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services. Appointed Director in January 2025, she leads the agency’s mission to guide, connect and advocate for long-term supports that help older adults remain independent in the community.
Tom McConaghy, Director, Central Colorado Area Agency on Aging, Salida, CO
[biography]
Tom McConaghy is Director of the Central Colorado Area Agency on Aging serving four rural counties. His professional background includes being a former law enforcement officer, working for the local Department of Human Services with a vibrant youth service and participation on numerous boards of directors.
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Director of Aging Services, Allegheny County Department of Human Services Area Agency on Aging, Pittsburgh, PA
[biography]
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Ph.D., is Director of the Allegheny County DHS Area Agency on Aging. Since 2022, she has transformed services, reaching over 39,000 people annually. With extensive research and nonprofit leadership experience, she advances community-driven advocacy, earning recognition from USAging, The John A. Hartford Foundation, and Pittsburgh Business Times.
Timothy Womack, Aging Services Director, South Carolina Appalachian Council of Governments Area Agency on Aging, Greenville, SC
[biography]
Tim Womack is the Aging Services Director at the South Carolina Appalachian Council of Governments/Area Agency on Aging. Over the past 16 years, Tim served as president of the South Carolina Area Agencies on Aging for three terms and the president of the Southeastern Association of Area Agencies on Aging.
Laura Cepoi, Executive Director, Olympic Area Agency on Aging, Port Townsend, WA
[biography]
Laura Cepoi serves as Executive Director of the Olympic Area Agency on Aging, leading practical innovation in rural aging services across coastal Washington. Drawing on previous AAA leadership experience in urban California, Laura helps directors navigate geography, governance and scale to build responsive, sustainable aging and adult service systems.
Pam Curtis, CEO, Senior Resources of West Michigan, Muskegon, MI
[biography]
Pam Curtis is CEO of Senior Resources of West Michigan and USAging’s current Immediate Past President. Pam holds a degree in social work from Ferris State University where she was a 2019 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. She’s held a variety of positions within her agency over the past 36 years.
Duana Patton, CEO, Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc., Ontario, OH
[biography]
Duana Patton is the CEO of the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. and current President of USAging. Duana has over 35 years of experience in nonprofit and executive leadership. Duana is known for her work in board governance, customer service, housing development and strategic planning.
Marla Fronczak, CEO, AgeGuide Northeastern IL, Lombard, IL
[biography]
Marla Fronczak is the CEO of AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois. She has a Master of Science in Nonprofit Management. Marla is the President of the Illinois Association of Area Agencies on Aging (I4A) and a member of the Milken Institute Alliance to Improve Dementia Care.
Lisa Sheppard, CEO, Missoula Aging Services, Missoula, MT
[biography]
Lisa Sheppard has more than two decades of leadership experience in the aging and disability fields. Prior to becoming CEO of Missoula Aging Services in 2022, she served for nine years as the director of another AAA in Montana where she also oversaw the county’s public transportation service.
Saturday, July 18
7:30 AM
7:00 PM
Registration and Information Desk Open
8:30 AM
12:00 PM
Pre-Conference Intensives
PC02) Caregiving Summit: From Federal Initiatives to Local Innovations
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Following a networking breakfast, this pre-conference intensive features updates from ACL leadership on federal priorities and initiatives focused on the caregiving landscape, including the National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers. This session will also offer a deep dive into USAging’s latest efforts and AAA-led innovations. Through a series of expert panels and interactive discussions, participants will explore actionable strategies for enhancing caregiver outreach and navigation. The session will highlight successful models for building innovative partnerships and highlight options for how to effectively integrate volunteers to potentially broaden program impact. Whether your agency is focused on scaling an existing service or launching new supports, this intensive provides the tools, peer connections, and federal insights necessary to strengthen caregiving in your community.
Presenters:
Meredith Hanley, Program Director, Commit to Connect, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Meredith Hanley serves as a Program Director overseeing USAging’s work relation to social connection, caregiving services and supports and kinship care.
Kari Benson, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Kari Benson serves as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging for the Administration on Aging. Kari has spent her entire career in the aging network and holds degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota.
Cara Goldstein, Assistant Director, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Cara Goldstein serves as the Assistant Director of Caregiving Services and Supports for USAging. In this role, she works to strengthen the capacity of the Aging Network to develop and deliver innovative services that meet the needs of the nation’s caregivers.
Christy Boone, Director of Housing and Special Projects, Direction Home of Eastern Ohio, Youndstown, OH
[biography]
Christy Boone is the Director of Housing and Special Projects for Direction Home of Eastern Ohio.?She attended Ohio University and is a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator. Christy’s responsibilities include leading the Family Caregiver Support Program, efforts to develop affordable housing and age-friendly livable communities.
Jennifer Harbison, Caregiver Support Specialist, Colchester, VT
[biography]
Jennifer Harbison is a Caregiver Support Specialist at Age Well northwestern Vermont’s Area Agency on Aging Jennifer provides access assistance care planning support dementia education and respite funding to unpaid caregivers who are supporting someone at home Jennifer leads Powerful Tools for Caregivers courses and facilitates dementia caregiver support groups
Bryn Ceman, Caregiver Program Specialist, Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources Inc., Madison, WI
[biography]
Bryn Ceman MS is the is the Caregiver Programs Specialist at the Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources (GWAAR), supporting 70 counties and 11 tribal nations. With over 20 years of experience, she provides statewide training and technical assistance to strengthen caregiver support programs and improve cross-systems partnerships.
Laura Jane Ward-Strunin, Program Manager, USAging, Raleigh, NC
[biography]
Laura Jane joined USAging in October 2024 as a Program Manager. She holds a masters degree in gerontology from the University of North Carolina-Greensboro. Her expertise includes contract and grant management, long term care, and caregiver supports.
Zachary Trammel, Program Manager, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Zach Trammel serves as a Program Manager for Caregiver Navigation Services at USAging. In this role, Zach supports research and program initiatives to enhance navigation support for caregivers under the Older Americans Act, Titles II-E and VI-C.
Joyce Nussbaum, Program Director, Valley Program for Aging Services, Waynesboro, VA
[biography]
Joyce Nussbaum is Program Director at Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS). Based in Rockingham County, she holds a Social Sciences degree with a concentration in Gerontology and Family Studies from James Madison University. With 16 years at VPAS, Joyce has led key advancements in caregiver support and dementia education.
Cassandra Jackson, Vice President of Programs and Services, ElderSource, Jacksonville, FL
[biography]
Cassandra Jackson is a senior program leader at ElderSource, partnering with executive leadership to advance innovative aging and caregiver services. She oversees program strategy, quality, and new models of care, guided by frontline experience and her role as a family caregiver. Her work drives systems change and strengthens community impact.
Sandy Markwood, Chief Executive Officer, USAging, Washington, DC
Mary Ek, Director, Dementia Friendly America and Community Care Corps, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Mary Ek is the Program Director for Dementia Friendly America, a national initiative administered by USAging. Through her work, Mary supports dementia-friendly communities and Dementia Friends administrators by providing technical assistance, facilitating webinars and collaboration among stakeholders and managing the development and sharing of dementia-resources.
Theresa Uhrich, Chief Operating Officer, Region IV Area Agency on Aging, St. Joseph, MI
[biography]
Theresa Uhrich is Chief Operating Officer of Region IV Area Agency on Aging in southwest Michigan leading care management managed care and community-based services. She advances innovation and partnerships including the Community Care Corps volunteer program supporting caregivers and focuses on cross-sector collaboration to strengthen outreach navigation and practical support.
Crystal Polizzotti, Director of the Family Caregiver Support Program, AgeSpan, Lawrence, MA
[biography]
Crystal Polizzotti is Director of the Family Caregiver Support Program at AgeSpan. With over 15 years of experience in human services and a background in social work, she leads a team providing information, referrals and comprehensive support to family caregivers assisting older adults across different care settings.
Sara Maloney, Program Manager, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Sara Maloney is a Program Director at USAging, leading federally funded initiatives for older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers. She previously directed the $75 million Aging and Disability Vaccination Collaborative and now oversees the Caregiver Navigation Services grant and dementia respite technical assistance.
Laura Allen, Volunteer Coordinator, Elderbridge Agency on Aging, Mason City, IA
[biography]
Laura Allen, Volunteer Coordinator for Elderbridge Agency on Aging, has a passion for serving others in the community. Being an advocate for her mom to stay in her home after a brain injury is something that has really driven Laura to continue to help others stay in their homes. Laura
PC03) Rural Roots, Strong Networks: A Health Care Contracting Intensive for Rural AAAs
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Join this pre-conference intensive to gain the essential tools and insights needed to lead and grow successful networks of rural community-based organizations (CBOs). This session is designed for AAAs that serve rural areas and are interested in or are already participating in health care contracting and network development. Presenters will share the latest reports and practical approaches to health care contracting and network development in rural settings. Presenters will also share how to assess the needs of potential rural health care partners. Attendees will craft a compelling rural value proposition to attract potential payers and retain existing health care partners, as well as explore strategies for network engagement and support to foster long-term collaboration between rural CBOs.
Presenters:
Jessica Machler, Senior Program Manager, Rural Health and Social Engagement, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Jessica Machler serves as the Senior Program Manager of Rural Health and Social Engagement at USAging. In this position, she supports the implementation of USAging’s rural health initiatives to improve social connection for older adults and integrate health and social care in rural communities.
Abbe Lackmeyer, Project Manager, Scripps Gerontology Center - Miami University, Cincinnati, OH
[biography]
Abbe Lackmeyer, MGS, currently serves as a Project Associate with Scripps Gerontology Center. She has experience in both the academic and non-profit sectors related to programs and services for older adults. She currently works on a project evaluating the products, processes and outcomes of the Aging and Disability Business.
Marisa Scala-Foley, Director, Aging and Disability Business Institute, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Marisa Scala-Foley serves as the Director of the Aging and Disability Business Institute at USAging, which provides community-based organizations (CBOs) with the tools and resources to successfully adapt to a changing health care environment, enhance their organizational capacity and capitalize on emerging opportunities to diversify funding.
PC04) Connecting the Dots: Benefits Access and the Aging Network
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
This session explores how AAAs can advance their mission of helping older adults live with independence and dignity through enhanced benefits access.
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) will share resources designed to train staff, educate clients and facilitate benefits enrollment. This session will feature a live demonstration of BenefitsCheckUp® and a hands-on opportunity to practice benefit screenings with NCOA support (bring your laptop).
Presenters from Benefits Enrollment Centers and AAAs providing benefits services will share proven strategies and real-world experiences to help AAAs successfully implement and improve benefits access in their community. Finally, attendees will learn how technical assistance provided by USAging can support their AAA’s ongoing efforts to provide benefits assistance.
Presenters:
Miranda Root, Benefits Assistance Program Manager, USAging, Washington, DC
Deborah Stone-Walls, Chief, Programs and Services, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
This is the place for the bio.
Georgia Gerdes, Avisery Senior Training Specialist, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Georgia joined AgeOptions, the Agency on Aging for Cook County, IL, in 2007, developing community programs to educate beneficiaries and professionals on Medicare and health benefits. As Avisery Senior Training Specialist, she trains professionals on Medicare, Medicaid, and public benefits, helping older adults and people with disabilities access affordable coverage.
Jennifer Teague, Director, Health Coverage and Benefits, National Council on Aging, Arlington, VA
[biography]
Jen oversees the National Center for Benefits Outreach and Enrollment (NCBOE) also known as the MIPPA (Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act) Resource Center. Prior to joining NCOA, Jen worked in western North Carolina overseeing Adult Protectives Services, co-leading Age-Friendly initiatives, and managing aging services contracts and grants.
Maggie Flowers, MIPPA Program Director, Office of Healthcare Information and Counseling, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Maggie Flowers is Medicare Program Director at the Administration for Community Living, leading the MIPPA program to help older adults and people with disabilities access Medicare and low-income benefits. She has extensive experience in economic security and aging services and holds degrees from Texas A&M University and UT Austin.
Kelly Butts-Elston, CEO, Connections Area Agency on Aging, Council Bluffs, IA
[biography]
Kelly Butts-Elston is the CEO of Connections Area Agency on Aging serving 20 counties in western and southwestern Iowa. Kelly has worked at the agency for 23 years, serving as a division director until 2013 when she became the Associate Director before assuming her current role in February of 2017.
Gregory Zars, Deputy Director, Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, Waterloo, IA
[biography]
Mr. Gregory Zars has been with Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging since 2012. He oversees all Older Americans Act Programs. Mr. Zars holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Philosophy from the University of Northern Iowa, and a Master of Public Policy (MPP).
Ryan Ramsey, Associate Director, Health Coverage and Benefits, National Council on Aging, Arlington, VA
[biography]
Ryan Ramsey is the Associate Director of Health Coverage and Benefits within the Center for Economic Wellbeing. He has been with NCOA since 2024 and has over 12 years of experience working to support older adults including working for the SHIP and MIPPA programs and OAA service delivery in Tennessee.
PC05) Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities and Challenges for Information and Referral Programs
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Has your information and referral/assistance (I&R/A) program started using AI tools for daily operations? Whether your organization is discussing the ethics and implications, piloting a few AI tools within your telecoms software, or has fully implemented AI tools for day-to-day operations, this session is for you! Chatbots, sentiment analysis, custom phrase detection, personalized coaching, quality assurance assistance—hear from organizations that are using these tools. What has worked, what hasn’t and how does your organization’s experience fit into the AI conversation? Presenters will share from the national, state and AAA perspectives, discussing implications, using cases and first-hand accounts, as well as discussing what your organization needs to decipher opportunities and challenges in the world of AI in I&R.
Presenters:
Sara Tribe Clark, Director, Eldercare Locator, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Sara is the Director of the Eldercare Locator and DIAL at USAging, national call centers serving people with disabilities and older adults. Before joining USAging, she was a program manager at DC’s ADRC, and various Massachusetts AAAs, and the director of the National I&R Support Center at ADvancing States.
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Director of Aging Services, Allegheny County Department of Human Services Area Agency on Aging, Pittsburgh, PA
[biography]
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Ph.D., is Director of the Allegheny County DHS Area Agency on Aging. Since 2022, she has transformed services, reaching over 39,000 people annually. With extensive research and nonprofit leadership experience, she advances community-driven advocacy, earning recognition from USAging, The John A. Hartford Foundation, and Pittsburgh Business Times.
Nanette Relave, Senior Director, National I&R Support Center, ADvancing States, Arlington, VA
11:30 AM
1:00 PM
Aging Innovations & Achievement Awards Luncheon (by invitation only)
12:30 PM
2:30 PM
Innovations in Caregiving Services & Supports Pilot Site Grantee Meeting and Luncheon (by invitation only)
1:15 PM
2:15 PM
Roundtables
RT01) More Than a Roof: Connecting Housing and Transportation to Support Aging Place
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Aging in place requires more than a roof; it requires the ability to get where you need to go. This roundtable explores the disconnect between affordable housing—from single-family homes to unsubsidized rentals—and reliable transportation options, especially for older adults who no longer drive. Too often, the most affordable housing is in the least-connected places, including suburban neighborhoods, small towns and rural areas with limited or no mobility options. In this peer-learning session, participants will share local strategies, innovative ideas and challenges as the population of older adults and people with mobility limitations grows. We’ll also gather input on how USAging can support your work. Join us for a solution-focused dialogue to spark ideas and strengthen the national network around housing and mobility.
Presenters:
Molly French, Director of Housing and Services, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
For USAging, Molly advances housing stability by promoting cross-sector partnerships between the aging and disability networks and the health and housing sectors. Across her career, Molly has 20 years of experience in improving the health and well-being of older adults and populations that have been underserved.
David Somers, Senior Research Associate, Transportation and Mobility, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Staff
1:15 PM
2:15 PM
Workshops
W01) Sharing the Work for Shared Populations: Success With Partnerships on Homelessness
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Some challenges are too big to handle alone, so forming partnerships with other organizations with aligned goals can position partnering organizations in becoming a proactive force for change. Workshop participants will learn about two Florida AAAs, Alliance for Aging (the AAA of Miami-Dade) and the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas, that formed cross-sector partnerships in the homeless response network to address older adults’ homelessness. The AAAs will discuss successes, challenges and the different routes their partnerships took to impact the lives of those in their communities. During Q&A, participants will have a chance to explore replicability in their communities through identifying possible connection points and methods of partnership. A handout will provide helpful resources to form cross-sector partnerships.
Presenters:
Ann Marie Winter, Executive Director, Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas, Inc. PSA 5, St. Petersburg, FL
[biography]
Ann Marie leads the Pasco-Pinellas (AAAPP) and develops & nurtures partnerships to improve the lives of seniors & persons with disabilities and serves as the agency’s representative to its state & federal partners. She has 25 years of experience working with complex domestic & multi-national social service and humanitarian organizations.
Max B. Rothman
Molly French, Director of Housing and Services, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
For USAging, Molly advances housing stability by promoting cross-sector partnerships between the aging and disability networks and the health and housing sectors. Across her career, Molly has 20 years of experience in improving the health and well-being of older adults and populations that have been underserved.
W02) Falls Prevention Coalitions: Enhancing Capacity to Address Older Adult Falls
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Preventing falls among older adults requires strong cross-sector community partnerships. The Iowa Falls Prevention Coalition (IFPC) offers a practical model for how a statewide coalition can strengthen community-based organizations’ capacity to address falls. This session, led by the National Council on Aging, the Iowa Community HUB, and the Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, highlights the establishment of IFPC as a coordinated ecosystem that improves referrals, expands evidence-based programs, and enhances awareness. Presenters will share replicable examples of how streamlined pathways, shared resources, and cross-sector collaboration have increased falls prevention capacity and impact across Iowa. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies for leveraging coalition involvement to strengthen community–clinical linkages, support organizational goals, and advance their region’s falls prevention efforts.
Presenters:
Gregory Zars, Deputy Director, Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, Waterloo, IA
[biography]
Mr. Gregory Zars has been with Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging since 2012. He oversees all Older Americans Act Programs. Mr. Zars holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Philosophy from the University of Northern Iowa, and a Master of Public Policy (MPP).
Rachelle Scott Oakley, Director of Operations, Iowa Community HUB, Des Moines, IA
Victoria Ring, Program Specialist, National Council on Aging, Philadelphia, PA
[biography]
Victoria is a dedicated social worker with a strong background in healthcare, case management, and program delivery, committed to improving quality of life for older adults. In her current role as Program Specialist at the National Council on Aging, Victoria strengthen falls prevention initiatives nationwide.
W03) Group Plans—Untapped Opportunity for Community Care Hubs
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Learn about a new business opportunity from two community care hubs who share their paths to contracting with group plans, including employer-sponsored health insurance and Medicare Advantage group plans. AgeOptions' Illinois Pathways to Health has obtained and grown its Medicare group contract and CATCH is in the beginning stages of working with a group plan. Learn what a group plan is, how it is different from Medicare Advantage and strategies to winning a contract with a group plan.
Presenters:
Janice Sparks, CATCH Executive Director, CATCH Greater Houston Community Care Hub, Houston, TX
[biography]
Dr. Sparks is an accomplished healthcare executive and gerontology expert with over 15 years of integrated care leadership, specializing in healthcare innovation, cross-sector partnerships, and large-scale program development to build sustainable systems that improve health and social outcomes for diverse communities.
Robert Mapes, Vice President of Healthcare Integration and Innovation, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Robert Mapes, MSW, is the Vice President of Healthcare Integration and Innovation at AgeOptions, the AAA of suburban Cook County, IL. He leads the Illinois Pathways to Health Community Care Hub, Medicare and Medicaid training and Development and Communications teams.
W04) Smoke, Sparks and Service: LA County’s Aging Network in Wildfire Response
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
When the Eaton and Palisades Fires struck Los Angeles County in January 2025, the Aging and Disabilities Department’s AAA mobilized rapidly to safeguard older adults and individuals with disabilities. Working with our LA County Emerging Aging and Disability Resource Connection partners and local providers, the AAA identified affected clients, minimized service disruptions, and supported displaced residents in burn areas. In coordination with the County’s Emergency Operations Center, the AAA ensured service continuity, facilitated resource distribution, and advanced recovery efforts. The department also contributed to legislative efforts supporting AB 1069 to strengthen emergency response systems for vulnerable populations. This session highlights lessons learned, effective cross-agency collaboration, and strategies to enhance community resilience and protect high-risk residents during disasters.
Presenters:
Andre Anthony, Human Services Administrator, Los Angeles County Aging and Disabilities Department, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Dedicated Human Services Administrator optimizing older adult programs in Los Angeles County. I specialize in program implementation, cross-agency collaboration, and enhancing service delivery for vulnerable populations. Committed to fostering inclusive environments, I combine data-driven leadership with deep empathy to drive sustainable social impact and organizational excellence.
Anthony Leoni, Human Services Administrator II, Los Angeles County Aging and Disabilities Department, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Anthony Leoni is a Human Services Administrator with the Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department, where he supports aging services programs and policies that serve older adults and people with disabilities across one of the nation’s largest counties. His work focuses on program administration, health and human services initiatives, and contract management, with experience developing innovative program responses during emergencies.
Karissa Reynoso, Administrative Manager,  Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Karissa Reynoso serves as an Administrative Manager with the Los Angeles County Department of Aging & Disabilities. She oversees data analytics and reporting initiatives that support programs serving older adults throughout one of the largest aging networks in the nation. Her work focuses on improving data quality, enhancing reporting systems, and using program data to inform decisions and improve services.
W05) Elevating Managers: Two Proven Models for Building Competence and Confidence
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Learn how to build a highly effective in-house skill-building training for management using two successful, contrasting models from the Aging Network. This session features a co-presentation by Bay Aging and Lewis-Mason-Thurston AAA (LMTAAA) with comparison of our management training curricula. Bay Aging will detail its customized six- session skill-building framework consisting of in-person sessions, online training, case study and role-playing for increased competence and confidence. LMTAAA will showcase a consultant model, which incorporates co-mentoring, refining high-impact leadership practices and strengthening strategic thinking. These programs increase management’s ability to execute operational functions in their department and division. Attendees will gain a practical blueprint, compare the structural trade-offs of both programs, and review tangible results to help launch or optimize your own management development initiatives.
Presenters:
Kyle Sanchez, Planning Director, Lewis - Mason - Thurston Area Agency on Aging, Olympia, WA
[biography]
Kyle has a master’s in public administration with a focus on nonprofit management from the University of North Florida. In 2023 he joined Lewis-Mason-Thurston Area Agency on Aging as ADRC Supervisor and currently serves as Planning Director. He started his career in aging at ElderSource in 2020.
MaDena DuChemin, Director, Human Resources, Bay Aging, Urbanna, VA
[biography]
B.S. in Business Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University and over 30 years’ experience. She is dual-certified in human resources. She believes everyone should “bring their A game” to work. Bring all your knowledge, skills, abilities, and experiences with you to be better today than yesterday.
Stephanie Hudgins, Director, Administration & Operations, Bay Aging, Urbanna, VA
[biography]
Director of Administration and Operations with 8 years of dedicated service to the aging community. Skilled in strategic planning, program development, and human resources. Passionate about improving the quality of life for older adults through efficient operations and innovative programs.
W06) Innovative Programs for Victims of Late-Life Domestic Violence
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
This session will demonstrate that Domestic Violence Does Not Respect Age (DOVES) by exploring the impact of late-life domestic violence. The Area Agency on Aging, Region One, in Phoenix, AZ, will highlight its DOVES program, an award winning, innovative and comprehensive program for older victims that offers transitional housing, community mobile advocacy, support groups, lay legal services, mental health support and emergency hotel stays. Attendees will learn strategies to help older victims on their path to safety and self-sufficiency.
Presenters:
Mary Lynn Kasunic, President & CEO, Area Agency on Aging, Region One, Phoenix, AZ
[biography]
Mary Lynn Kasunic has been the President & CEO of the Area Agency on Aging, Region One since 1990. Under her leadership, the Agency provides over 50 programs and services to more than 122,000 Maricopa County residents each year.
Cyndi Patterson, Director of DOVES, Area Agency on Aging, Region One, Phoenix, AZ
[biography]
Cyndi Patterson is a graduate of the Behavioral Health and Science Program at the University of Arizona. Cyndi has worked in the Social Service Arena for more than 30 years. She is currently the Director of the DOVES Domestic Violence Program at the Area Agency on Aging Region One.
W07) Living Well With “Buddy AL”: Supporting San Diegans With Dementia
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Living well with dementia is possible, and when individuals, families and communities work together, lives can be transformed. This session highlights how the County of San Diego, Aging & Independence Services, is working to improve quality of life for people living with dementia and their care partners in the San Diego region through programming, education and convening community partners. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from a local couple that is navigating a dementia diagnosis (“Buddy AL”), from the perspectives of both the person living with dementia and her care partner. Together, they will share an inspirational vision and share lessons learned to navigate the challenges associated with living with dementia.
Presenters:
Carolyn Kendle, Community Health Program Specialist, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Carolyn Kendle, MPH is a Community Health Program Specialist with the County of San Diego’s Aging & Independence Services. She oversees County initiatives, programs, and grants related to older adult fall prevention and dementia, including Dementia Friends, Tai Chi, and the Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program.
Larry Wagner, Founder, Alzheimer's Thriver, CA
[biography]
Larry Wagner is the husband and care partner of Janna Wagner. They founded the Wagner's School of Music and Alzheimer’s Thriver.
Janna Wagner, Co-Founder, Alzheimer's Thriver, CA
[biography]
Janna Wagner is a mom to multiples, professional musician, retired high school math teacher and woman of faith. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Flute Performance, and a Master's in Special Education. Together with her husband, Larry, they founded the Wagner's School of Music and Alzheimer’s Thriver.
W08) Reframing Communications About Senior Centers: Lessons Learned From Pennsylvania
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Through a groundbreaking partnership between the Pennsylvania Department of Aging and the National Center to Reframe Aging (NCRA), together we are developing innovative communication strategies to position Pennsylvania’s 450+ senior centers as vital community hubs. Building on the NCRA's evidence-based work, this partnership is testing targeted messages to improve public understanding of senior centers. This session will review the three phases of this project and provide insight into implementing multisector plans, bringing partners at all levels to the table, including AAAs, and the importance of reframing aging strategies to inspire support for similar initiatives in other jurisdictions.
Presenters:
Jason Kavulich, Secretary of Aging, Pennsylvania Department of Aging, Harrisburg, PA
[biography]
In 2023, Jason Kavulich was nominated by Governor Josh Shapiro to serve as Secretary of Aging for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, where one in three residents will be age 60+ by 2030. Secretary Kavulich is leading and advocating for an aging network of quality, sustainable programs that support Pennsylvania’s growing
Rebecca May-Cole, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Association of Area Agencies on Aging, Harrisburg, PA
[biography]
Rebecca May-Cole is an experienced public policy and administration executive with extensive experience working with community-based human services organizations to serve older adults and people with disabilities.
Patricia D'Antonio, Project Director, Vice President, Policy and Professional Affairs, The National Center to Reframe Aging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Patricia "Trish" D'Antonio, BSPharm, MS, MBA, BCGP, is GSA’s Vice President of Policy and Professional Affairs and the Project Director for the National Center to Reframing Aging. D'Antonio received her Master of Science in health finance and Master in Business Administration from Temple University. She is a board-certified geriatric pharmacist.
W10) Translating the Respite for All Faith-Based Model Into a Successful Secular Program
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
We will explore how the award-winning Respite for All (RFA) model—originally rooted in a faith-based setting—can be effectively adapted for use in public or civic community-based environments. RFA uses a person-centered, strength-based approach to provide meaningful engagement for people living with dementia, vital respite for care partners, and rewarding experiences for volunteers. RFA offers a highly sustainable, innovative model of dementia care that fosters creativity, autonomy, cognitive resilience and a strong sense of belonging. R Place is a standout example of how the RFA all-faith-based model can be successfully adapted for secular organizations. We will present qualitative research evaluating the experiences of people living with dementia, family caregivers and volunteers participating in the R Place–RFA program.
Presenters:
Daphne Johnston, Founder and CEO, Respite for All Foundation, Montgomery, AL
[biography]
Daphne Johnston, Executive Director and co-founder of the Respite for All Foundation, is a national advocate for volunteer-driven dementia care. After launching a pioneering respite ministry in 2012, she has helped replicate the sustainable model nationwide to 65 communities in places of worship and senior centers.
Alison Smith, Social Engagement Coordinator, R Place Director, Orange County Department on Aging, Chapel Hill, NC
[biography]
Alison Smith is the Director of R Place at the Orange County Department on Aging. Alison is a certified dementia practitioner (CDP) and collaborates closely with a multidisciplinary team of geriatric professionals to deliver dementia education, training, support, and social engagement opportunities for older adults in Orange County, NC.
Eleanor Hummel, Research Assistant, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
[biography]
Eleanor (Ellie) graduated from UNC with a bachelor’s degree in health policy and management and is currently working as a research assistant. Ellie was invited to present an abstract on her honors thesis, Understanding the Respite for All model, at the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting.
W11) Coordinating OAA Titles III/VI to Enhance Supports to Tribal Elders
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
The OAA requires that states and AAAs coordinate their Title III planning, programs and services with Tribes and their Title VI planning, programs and services. The opportunities to improve outreach and service delivery to Native Elders through this coordination are plentiful; best practice examples will be highlighted.
Presenter:
Jasmine Aplin, Aging Services Program Special, Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Jasmine Aplin has nearly a decade of federal experience, including over three years supporting Title VI programs at ACL. She has led stakeholder engagement efforts and Tribal site visits and previously served at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. She holds a JD and an MPH.
W12) Making Aging Services Truly Accessible: Addressing Deaf and Hard of Hearing Needs
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
When someone reaches out for help, that initial outreach is the first, and most critical, touchpoint for trust between aging services organizations and the communities they serve. Yet millions of older adults who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing face barriers with traditional communication channels, creating gaps in equal access and engagement. This workshop explores these challenges, highlighting where current systems fall short and where improvements are needed. Learn how organizations are reimagining customer experience through accessibility-first communication design, and how assistive technologies and comprehensive practices can ensure universal access so that no one is left out or overlooked.
Presenters:
Irisa MacAulay, Business Development Associate, CSD Access
[biography]
Irisa brings over 5 years of experience in international development, focusing on disability-inclusive solutions and strategic partnerships. Passionate about accessibility driving innovation, she champions "nothing without us." As Business Development Associate at CSD Access, Irisa cultivates partnerships and expands organizations/companies reach to advance communication access for the Deaf community.
Cameron Papazis, Business Development Manager, Communication Service for the Deaf
[biography]
Cam’s career began as an interpreter, where she saw the communication barriers Deaf individuals experience daily, including those faced by her family and friends. With a desire to make a greater impact, she joined CSD, focusing on advocacy and helping organizations strengthen communication access for Deaf consumers.
W13) Achieving Success in Social Connection Contracting
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
The John A. Hartford Foundation (JAHF) 2025 Business Innovation Award honors innovative and transformative social connection initiatives by community-based organizations that contract with health care entities, with the goal of replicating these successful partnerships across the country. The 2025 winners include United Disabilities Services, Elder Services of the Worcester Area and Senior Connection. A panel facilitated by JAHF will discuss partnerships and contracting models in social connection, along with creative strategies for achieving meaningful outcomes for older adults, people with disabilities and their family caregivers. These national award recipients will share examples and case studies, engage the audience in discussions and participate in Q&A.
Presenters:
Kathie Garbe, Senior Program Manager, Aging and Disability Business Institute, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Senior Program Manager, Aging and Disability Business Institute, Dr. Garbe is the Editor of the BI Update and contributes to and manages projects at USAging and the Business Institute. Kathie holds a BS in Health and Physical Education, MS in Health Education and Ph.D. in Health Studies.
Moses Dixon, President and CEO, Senior Connection, Inc., Worcester, MA
[biography]
Dr. Moses S. Dixon, PhD, is President and CEO of Senior Connection, Inc. and a leading practitioner in Global Health and Social Medicine with a comprehensive background in the non-profit and governmental sectors locally and nationally.
Nancy Wexler, Program Officer, The John A. Hartford Foundation, New York, NY
[biography]
Dr. Nancy Wexler is a program officer at The John A. Hartford Foundation. She has more than 16 years of experience in developing and managing integrated care delivery and population health models aimed at improving the quality, value, and experience of care.
2:30 PM
3:30 PM
Workshops
W17) On Your Mark, Get Set, Go! Operationalizing Health Care Contracts for Success
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Come to this session to learn about health plan and health care organization requirements during the onboarding process to ensure data security and operational compliance and quality oversight. This session will discuss the myriad activities and types of document submission requirements expected from AAAs, community care hubs and other community-based organizations after signing a contract and before beginning operations. The workshop will feature and attendees will receive access to a new brief and a workbook designed to help your organization prepare for these health care requirements. These tools can help your team go from signing the contract to serving clients and achieving the contract's goals as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Presenters:
Ljudmila Burchfield, Senior Vice President, Compliance, Legal Affairs, Data Protection and Privacy, Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities, Uniontown, OH
[biography]
Mrs. Burchfield has over 20 years of healthcare experience. She has served in clinical and operational roles in acute and post-acute care settings. Her experiences also include establishing and managing compliance programs as well as serving as legal counsel.
Mark Humowiecki, General Counsel & Senior Director, National Center for Complex Health and Social Needs, Camden Coalition, Camden, NJ
[biography]
Mark Humowiecki is an attorney with nearly two decades of experience as an executive leader in state government and CBOs. He is the founding senior director of the Camden Coalition’s National Center for Complex Health and Social Needs initiative that seeks to build the field of complex care through convening,
Paul Cantrell, Director, Center of Excellence to to Align Health and Social Care, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
More than 30 years of experience in managed care and social service organizational leadership and consulting. Experience includes: State Insurance Regulator, Managed Care Corporate Director, AAA Hub Executive Director, and 10+ years USAging, SUA, state AAA association and AAA consulting.
W18) Center for Dementia Respite Innovation: Insights, Impact and Rural Spotlight
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
The Alzheimer’s Association Center for Dementia Respite Innovation (CDRI), funded by the Administration for Community Living, funds innovative projects that expand and improve respite care for people living with dementia and their caregivers. Over five years, CDRI will award $20 million in competitive grants to providers nationwide, advancing person-centered care through innovation, collaboration, accessibility, affordability and sustainability. This session will highlight CDRI’s scope, funded projects, evaluation data and lessons learned. The session will also feature a spotlight from Aging and In-Home Services of Northeast Indiana (AIHS), a AAA that was a Year 2 CDRI grant award recipient. Attendees will hear from AIHS staff about how they implemented a dementia-specific respite service delivery model in collaboration with community partners and found a sustainable, scalable solution for respite in their rural community through CDRI.
Presenters:
Isabella Marini, Senior Associate Director, Center for Dementia Respite Innovation, Alzheimer's Association, Chicago, IL
[biography]
Isabella Marini is the Associate Director of the Center for Dementia Respite Innovation at the Alzheimer’s Association. Isabella holds a bachelor’s degree in nonprofit administration from Cleveland State University and is currently pursuing a dual master’s degree in business administration and healthcare administration from Indiana Wesleyan University.
Erin Long, Aging Services Program Specialist, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Coming soon
Beth Evans, President & CEO, Aging & In-Home Services of Northeast Indiana, Fort Wayne, IN
[biography]
Beth Evans, MHA, President & CEO, Aging & In-Home Services of Northeast Indiana. Beth has built a comprehensive skillset working in various roles agency-wide to support strategic growth, access and implementation of home and community-based services and supports. Her current focus is on underserved populations and developing new revenue streams.
W19) From Silos to Solutions: Housing Partnerships for Aging Well
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Across the country, agencies serving unhoused older adults, individuals with disabilities and individuals with behavioral health needs often operate in silos—leading to gaps, duplication of services and missed opportunities to access pathways to comprehensive behavioral health services along with safe and supportive housing. This session highlights how San Bernardino County’s Departments of Aging and Adult Services–Public Guardian, Behavioral Health, and Community Development and Housing formed a groundbreaking partnership to co-design and deliver housing, health and recovery supports at the Pacific Village Campus. Together, these agencies created an integrated continuum of interim and permanent supportive housing, case management, behavioral health treatment and recuperative care. Attendees will learn practical strategies to replicate cross-system collaboration; braid funding; and design more accessible, livable communities with onsite behavioral health programming.
Presenters:
Amber Carpenter, Deputy Director, San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
Amber Carpenter, LCSW, is Deputy Director for Substance Use Disorder and Recovery Services at San Bernardino County Behavioral Health. A behavioral health leader, she specializes in prevention, quality assurance, and recovery services. She has led major initiatives including the development of the Screening, Assessment and Referral Center and ARISE programs.
Jennifer Pohlman, Special Projects Manager, San Bernardino County Department of Aging and Adult Services - Public Guardian, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
Jennifer Pohlman is a seasoned Program Manager with extensive experience in aging services, grant administration, and large-scale program development. She has secured over $50M in funding, led major public health initiatives, and drives strategic, compliant, and community-focused solutions that strengthen support for older adults and vulnerable populations.
Rob Gillam, Acting Director, San Bernardino County Community Development and Housing Department, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
Rob Gilliam is Acting Director of Community Development and Housing for San Bernardino County, with 28+ years of experience leading public construction and capital programs. He specializes in scaling initiatives that support essential community services and serves on the CMAA Southern California Board, advocating for innovation in construction management.
W20) Support to Sustainability: Strategies for Expanding Your Caregiver Program
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Short description: Bay Aging—one of only five AAAs in the nation selected to provide Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) to family caregivers—demonstrates how innovative approaches can transform support systems. Learn how one of America’s oldest counties expanded its family caregiver support program by 460 percent in three years through creative outreach, flexible service models and strong community partnerships. This session highlights how counselors with personal caregiving experience used a boots-on-the-ground strategy to engage caregivers, including those who may not recognize themselves in that role. Participants will explore practical techniques such as micro-sessions, in-home support, adaptable communication method, and targeted collaborations that reduce isolation and strengthen connection. Attendees will gain insight into monitoring growth, adapting during challenging circumstances and building sustainable solutions that continue to elevate family caregiver support across the county.
Presenters:
Kelsie Houston, Caregiver Support Options Counselor, Bay Aging, Urbanna, VA
[biography]
Kelsie has worked with older adults for 16 years and volunteered with the Alzheimer’s Association for 12 years. Kelsie is the primary caregiver for her uncle who was diagnosed at age 57 and mother diagnosed at 54. Her passion behind her work comes from personal experiences and making a difference.
Mary Arthur, Lead Options Counselor, Caregiver Support, Bay Aging, Urbanna, VA
[biography]
Mary Arthur has worked in the senior service industry for 21 years. Mary trained and became a Consultant and Trainer for Teepa Snow’s organization, The Positive Approach to Care. She is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Alzheimer's Association Support Group Facilitator, Advocate, and Community Educator.
W21) Futureproofing Your Workforce: Strategies to Address Shortages and Build Capacity
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Are you experiencing challenges in finding and onboarding the right talent? Are you tired of vital agency knowledge residing with only a few individuals? Do you worry about staff retention, succession planning and how your organization will look in 10 years? In this workshop, you will learn how to recruit and build capacity and reimagine current practices through technology, helping you increase your organization’s bench strength and leadership skills to ensure its longevity. You will learn how to assess your organizational strengths, challenges and opportunities; how to develop strategies to build community partnerships; and how to increase your capacity through learning, technology and other approaches.
Presenters:
Jacqueline Hutsell, Chief Human Resources and Learning Officer, Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio, Blue Ash, OH
[biography]
With 30+ years’ experience in Human Resources and Training Development and a master’s degree from Xavier University, Jacqueline is certified as a Professional in Human Resources and as a Human Capital Strategist. An author, she holds a Diversity and Inclusion Certificate from Cornell University and is an SAOL Certified Consultant.
Suzanne Burke, Chief Executive Officer, Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio, Blue Ash, OH
[biography]
Suzanne Burke is Chief Executive Officer of Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio. She has served in this position since 2005. Suzanne has a master’s degree in Business Administration (Marketing) from Xavier University and a bachelor’s degree in Marketing with a minor in Gerontology from Miami University.
W23) The Power of Pilina: Volunteers and AAAs Restoring Lives and Transforming Services
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Safe, stable homes and strong social connections are essential to aging in place—especially in communities recovering from disaster. This session explores how Maui County partners are expanding safety, independence, and resilience for kūpuna (elders) through coordinated home repairs and volunteer-driven support. Habitat for Humanity’s A Brush With Kindness program provides critical repairs and accessibility modifications across Maui, Moloka‘i, and Lāna‘i. Complementing this work, Nā Hoaloha’s volunteer network offers friendly visits, reassurance calls, and in‑home assistance that reduce isolation and extend the reach of the Maui County Office on Aging. Together, these models demonstrate how AAAs can leverage cross-sector partnerships, community volunteers, and disaster-response lessons to help older adults remain safe, connected, and supported in their communities.
Presenters:
Rowena Dagdag-Andaya, Maui County Office on Aging, Wailuku, HI
[biography]
Rowena Dagdag-Andaya is the County Executive for the Maui County Office on Aging. She previously served as the Director and Deputy Director of Public Works for 11 years. Before joining the County of Maui, Rowena was a senior planner in an urban planning and governmental affairs firm and an educator.
Judy Guajardo, Volunteer Coordinator, Na Hoaloha, Wailuku, HI
[biography]
Judy Guajardo serves as the Volunteer Coordinator for Na Hoaloha, where she plays a vital role in connecting compassionate community members with kupuna in need of support. With a strong background in volunteer management and community engagement, Judy oversees recruitment, training, and placement of volunteers.
W24) Reaching the Unreached: Scalable Strategies for Social Connection and Healthy Aging
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Across the country, older adults face increasing social isolation, mobility limitations and barriers to meaningful engagement. This session will showcase four innovative, comprehensive and highly replicable programs from Howard County’s (MD) Office on Aging and Independence that effectively promote social connection, healthy aging and a renewed sense of purpose. Participants will learn how the award-winning Grand Day Out intergenerational program, the empowering Women and Weights strength-training series, the high-impact Virtual 50+ Exercise Package and the energizing Speed Friending model each reach older adults who are often overlooked. Presenters will share outcome data, design tools and actionable strategies for removing barriers such as cost, transportation and confidence. Attendees will leave with adaptable program templates that strengthen community connection and elevate aging services in any setting.
Presenters:
Matthew Madera, 50+ Centers Division Manager, Howard County Office on Aging, Columbia, MD
[biography]
Matthew has been with Howard County Government for over 23 years. In June 2022, he joined the Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) as the 50+ Centers Division Manager, where he oversees the operations and programming of their six 50+ Centers. OAI serves as Howard County’s Area Agency on Aging.
Sherri Lively, 50+ Center Fitness Specialist
W25) Chapter 2—Celebrating 51 Years: Reflections, Advocacy and the Future of Aging
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
The session will reflect on the 51-year history of AAAs, highlighting accomplishments, challenges and the vital role they play in shaping the aging services landscape from local and national perspectives. The three tenured panelists, who have a combined 150 years of Aging Network and advocacy experience at AAAs and at the national level, will engage in a lively discussion about lessons learned over the last 50 years; highlight the importance of advocacy in the current environment; present a forward-looking perspective on challenges and opportunities for aging services, focusing on the next phase of advocacy; and engage participants in discussions about the next steps for sustaining and improving programs for older Americans.
Presenters:
Bill Benson, President, International Association for Indigenous Aging, Silver Spring, MD
[biography]
Bill Benson is President of the IA2 and has worked in aging and health for over four decades. Bill has held senior leadership positions from the state to federal level and is a national advocate on elder justice and brain health.
Diane Slezak, President and CEO, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Diane Slezak is President and CEO of AgeOptions and the President of Illinois Association of AAA’s. She serves as a USAging Alternate Board member. She is known for her advocacy to establish programs to serve elders including recently, obtaining state funding to support caregivers.
Mary Lynn Kasunic, President & CEO, Area Agency on Aging, Region One, Phoenix, AZ
[biography]
Mary Lynn Kasunic has been the President & CEO of the Area Agency on Aging, Region One since 1990. Under her leadership, the Agency provides over 50 programs and services to more than 122,000 Maricopa County residents each year.
W27) Model Program Meets Critical Needs of Vulnerable Adults
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Learn how Minnesota’s regional AAAs, serving rural and urban communities, partnered with county Adult Protective Services (APS) and the Minnesota Department of Human Services to provide wraparound support to vulnerable adults who had experienced abuse, financial exploitation or neglect. Each APS client was assigned a case manager at the AAA and a budget of up to $2,500 to help stabilize their lives. This 18-month pilot program replicated an initiative first developed in Missouri. Minnesota’s AAAs worked with counties and state staff to modify the service delivery model and tailored the Cumulus technology platform to support a custom response. Eighty-five percent of county APS programs reported that clients gained access to services they would not have otherwise received.
Presenters:
Dawn Simonson, President and CEO, Trellis, Arden Hills, MN
[biography]
Dawn Simonson is the President and CEO of Trellis. Dawn champions organizational vision and provides strategic leadership resulting in services and programs that benefit older adults and their families in the Twin Cities region and throughout Minnesota. Dawn holds deep experience in aging services development, advocacy, collaboration and innovation.
Heather Pender, Director, Dancing Sky Area Agency on Aging, Warren, MN
[biography]
Heather Pender has worked for the Dancing Sky Area Agency on Aging for 11 years, serving 21 counties in northwestern Minnesota. Heather’s passion is supporting older adults in rural Minnesota. She has a background in Gerontology and Community Health and is currently pursuing a master’s in Advocacy and Political Leadership.
Rebecca Sash, Director, Arrowhead Area Agency on Aging, Duluth, MN
[biography]
Rebecca is the Director of the Arrowhead Area Agency on Aging (AAAA), which serves the seven counties of northeastern Minnesota. With a deep passion for addressing the diverse needs of the aging population, she is dedicated to building strategic partnerships that improve the lives of older adults in the region.
W28) Bridging the Gap in Serious Illness Care: A Replicable Model for AAAs
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Despite the support of AAAs, people living with serious illness, such as cancer or dementia, often live with undertreated symptoms and receive health care that conflicts with their values. Advance care planning (ACP) and palliative care (PC) address these issues. This session introduces a culturally responsive, community-driven model for uniting health care providers, AAAs, community organizations and communities with limited resources to raise awareness about ACP and PC. Attendees will hear from leaders who created and scaled this model and participate in small group discussions to reflect on their communities’ needs and opportunities. Presenters will share lessons learned from coalition activities, including culturally tailored outreach and education. Participants will leave with practical steps for developing coalitions to support older adults and people living with serious illness.
Presenters:
Kelly Dearman, Executive Director, San Francisco Disability and Aging Services, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Executive Director, San Francisco Department of Disability and Aging Services (DAS). Kelly leads the City’s integrated aging and disability service system, supporting independence, dignity, and community living for more than 70,000 older adults and disabled residents.
Grant Smith, Medical Director, Palliative Care Community Partnerships Team, Stanford School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Grant Smith, MD is a palliative care physician and Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at the Stanford School of Medicine. He received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School and completed his residency in internal medicine and fellowship in hospice and palliative medicine at the University of California, San Francisco.
Loren Pogir, Executive Director, San Francisco Palliative Care Work Group, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Loren Pogir is Executive Director of the San Francisco Palliative Care Work Group. She leads cross-sector efforts to expand access to serious illness and end of life care and is recognized for building partnerships, guiding strategy, and supporting organizations in improving care for older adults and families.
W29) Creating Engaging Environments for Socialization
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Area Agency on Aging 3 (AAA3) in Lima, OH, will explore how three unique social programs were created to address the critical need for community and connection among older adults. By varying the opportunities available in their seven-county service area, AAA3 works to reach isolated, food-insecure and at-risk individuals within the rural landscape. Learn how AAA3 leverages available funding; creates sustainable, effective and fun programming; and extends the initiatives throughout the community.
Presenters:
Anna Hairston, Awakenings Care Coordinator, Area Agency on Aging 3, Lima, OH
[biography]
Anna Hairston has a master's in clinical social work with a concentration in Gerontology and has been an advocate for older adult victims of crime for 6.5 years within AAA3's Awakenings Victim Outreach program. She has had the pleasure to speak at national conferences on her work with older adults.
Dre White, Population Health Director, Area Agency on Aging 3, Lima, OH
[biography]
Dre oversees programming focused on assisting those served live active, healthy lives to maintain independence and continue to contribute to society. Population Health programs include Nutrition, Health Education, Care Coordination, and vaccine efforts. Dre has been with AAA3 since January 2019.
W30) ACL Discussion Session for Regions I, 2, 3 and 5
Note: This session is only open to AAAs and Title VI programs.
Join your AAA/Title VI peers in your regions for an open dialogue with U.S. Administration for Community Living senior leaders. Bring your questions, concerns and successes from the AAA/Title VI perspective to share with our federal partners
Presenters:
Adam Mosey, Special Assistant, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Adam Mosey currently serves as a Special Assistant at the Administration on Aging, one of ACL’s programmatic Centers, where he works on key policy and program issues related to the Older Americans Act. He also concurrently serves as a Sergeant First Class in the Army National Guard.
Alice Kelsey, Deputy Director, Administration on Aging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Alice Kelsey is the Deputy Director for the Administration on Aging. She has 15 years’ experience in the Aging Network and holds a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs.
Kari Benson, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Kari Benson serves as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging for the Administration on Aging. Kari has spent her entire career in the aging network and holds degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota.
W31) A Unique Model to Improve Care Transitions: FC-CE
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Kentucky’s Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program established statewide FlourishCare Centers of Excellence (FC-CEs) to strengthen how care is delivered to older adults and improve care transitions. These centers unite universities, AAAs, health care providers and community organizations to ensure professionals are equipped with specialized, age-friendly expertise. Led by AAAs and supported by a multidisciplinary steering committee, FC-CEs coordinate services across hospitals, primary care, long-term care and community supports to promote dignity, independence and well-being. The initiative improves access to personalized, age- and dementia-friendly care and creates smoother transitions across care settings. This session will highlight key successes, including workforce development innovations, effective partnership models and strategies for replication. FC-CEs are setting a new standard for high-quality, coordinated care for Kentucky’s aging population.
Presenters:
Barbara Gordon, Director of Community Engagement, University of Louisviile Trager Institute, Louisville, KY
[biography]
Barbara Gordon is currently Director of Community Engagement at the University of Louisville Trager Institute/Optimal Aging Clinic and teaches at the UofL Kent School of SW. Ms. Gordon’s professional career spans four+ decades, including her work at KIPDA as the Director of Social Services, the AAA serving 7 counties.
Jessica Elkin, Director of Social Services, Kentuckiana Regional Planning and Development Agency (KIPDA) Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living, Louisville, KY
[biography]
Jessica is the Director of the KIPDA Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living. She has worked in the field of social and human services for more than 20 years and has worked at the AAAIL for more than 10 years.
Pam Yankeelov, Director of Research, University of Louisville Trager Institute Optimal Aging Clinic, Louisville, KY
[biography]
Dr. Pam Yankeelov is the Director of Research at the University of Trager Institute Optimal Aging Clinic. She is Professor & Distinguished University Teacher Kent School of Social Work, University of Louisville. Ms. Yankeelov has several years of experience engaging in research and evaluation that is translatable in communities.
3:45 PM
5:30 PM
General Sessions
GS01) Caregivers as the Foundation of Health and Social Care
Sponsored by Mom's Meals
Millions of family caregivers are the invisible backbone of our health and social care system, but often at the cost of their own financial, physical and emotional health. Richard Lui, an award-winning news anchor, board director and business founder, is a long-time caregiver and knows this all too well. From directing two films on mental health and caregiving, to his innovative work with the CARE Genome project and the Caregiving Moonshot initiative, Lui comes to the conclusion that health and social care systems must be designed around caregivers. This is a solvable challenge, requiring innovation, investment, intentional design—and the involvement of the Aging Network!
Sunday, July 19
6:30 AM
7:30 AM
21st Annual Early Bird Walk
You’re invited to kick off your Conference morning with a refreshing 2.2-mile roundtrip walk along San Diego’s beautiful waterfront! Join us as we explore highlights, including Seaport Village’s open-air shops and eateries, the scenic paths of Tuna Harbor Park, the iconic 25-foot Embracing Peace Statue and the historic USS Midway Museum. This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow attendees, enjoy some fresh air and experience a few of the city’s most memorable landmarks before the day’s sessions begin. Let’s get moving together!
7:30 AM
5:00 PM
Registration and Information Desk Open
7:30 AM
8:30 AM
Morning Refreshments in the Tradeshow
8:30 AM
10:00 AM
General Sessions
GS02) Excellence in Aging and Community Living: A Federal Perspective
How is the federal government supporting your efforts to serve older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers? Mary Lazare, the top Trump Administration official at the U.S. Administration for Community Living, will share the agency’s priorities: caregiving, connecting people to services, whole-person health, employment and protecting rights and preventing abuse.
10:00 AM
10:30 AM
Networking Break in the Tradeshow
10:30 AM
11:30 AM
Roundtables
RT02) Connecting Care: Co-Designing Smarter Systems for Rural Older Adults and Caregivers
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Rural AAAs are navigating workforce shortages, facing increased service demands and managing evolving expectations for service delivery and reporting. Join this engaging discussion to explore how technology can be leveraged to balance workforce capacity while remaining responsive to the unique realities of rural communities. Grounded in human-centered and accessible design principles, we will focus on practical, doable approaches to technology implementation that support older adults and caregivers in managing their health and well-being. Participants are invited to share experiences, challenges and ideas to strengthen digital access, technology adoption, literacy and trust in rural areas. Together, we will identify barriers to adoption, generate innovative solutions and prioritize technology needs that can inform broader national strategies for strengthening the Aging Network.
Presenters:
Jessica Machler, Senior Program Manager, Rural Health and Social Engagement, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Jessica Machler serves as the Senior Program Manager of Rural Health and Social Engagement at USAging. In this position, she supports the implementation of USAging’s rural health initiatives to improve social connection for older adults and integrate health and social care in rural communities.
Sara Maloney, Program Manager, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Sara Maloney is a Program Director at USAging, leading federally funded initiatives for older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers. She previously directed the $75 million Aging and Disability Vaccination Collaborative and now oversees the Caregiver Navigation Services grant and dementia respite technical assistance.
10:30 AM
11:30 AM
Workshops
W32) Live From DC: A Federal Aging Policy Update
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Advocacy is a critical part of our shared mission to support older adults and family caregivers. To support Aging Network advocates, USAging's policy staff will expand upon our
2026 Policy Priorities
and provide an in-depth, real-time update about breaking aging and health care policy issues that will affect your clients and communities. Get the latest updates on movements in Congress and the Administration, the Older Americans Act, appropriations, Medicaid HCBS, caregiver policies, key advocacy messages and what you can do now to advance better federal aging policy! This session is appropriate for all levels of policy knowledge.
Presenters:
Amy Gotwals, Chief, Public Policy and External Affairs, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
In her role, Amy leads USAging's public policy, advocacy, communications, external relations and membership relations activities. Representing local aging agencies, Amy serves as the lead in outreach to Congress and the Administration to ensure that needed resources and support services are available to older Americans and their caregivers.
Olivia Umoren Ezeuko, Director, Public Policy and Advocacy, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
In her role, Olivia directs the association’s legislative affairs and advocacy efforts to advance federal policies that address the needs of an aging America, plays a vital role in the development of USAging’s policy positions and priorities, and represents USAging in meetings with congressional staff and administration officials.
W33) Aging Services Providers Responding to the Unexpected Lessons From Two Community Crises
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
As building infrastructure ages and extreme weather events continue, the crisis response system must be prepared to serve people of all ages who need immediate—and sometimes longer term—support, including older adults. This session will share experiences from four partners whose work focuses on serving older adults in St. Louis, MO, and have been a part of several recent crisis response events, including: 1) an apartment building evacuation that led to 160 residents being immediately and permanently displaced; and 2) a tornado that impacted thousands of households, many of whom were already struggling with basic needs and housing insecurity. Lessons from response efforts for both of these events will be shared, with a particular focus on skills and knowledge, supplie, and other resources that have been most helpful.
Presenters:
Stephanie Herbers, Program Manager, St. Louis City Senior Fund, St. Louis, MO
[biography]
Stephanie Herbers is a program manager with the St. Louis City Senior Fund, a fund whose revenue comes from a portion of City of St. Louis property taxes. Senior Fund supports local organizations that focus on ensuring older adults have access to services and other resources they need such as
Samantha Ferguson Knight, Director of Senior Programming, LifeWise StL, St. Louis, MO
[biography]
Samantha Ferguson Knight is the Director of Senior Programming at LifeWise StL. She oversees programs and services for older adults, including the AmeriCorps Senior Companion Program and the Senior Resiliency Fund. She co-founded the Senior Support Team as a result of the Tornado.
Anneliese Stoever, Director, St. Louis Area Agency on Aging, St Louis, MO
[biography]
Anneliese Stoever, MSW is the Director of the St Louis Area Agency on Aging and supervises staff, develops programs, writes grants, monitors services, and leads several community project initiatives. Ms. Stoever has a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Kansas and a Masters in Social Work.
W34) Scaling Falls Prevention Across the Nation
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
While falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries for older Americans, they are also preventable. This session will detail the U.S. Administration for Community Living’s focus on reducing falls by scaling an individualized, multi-factorial approach as critical components in achieving the public-private vision in the National Falls Prevention Action Plan. It will highlight a comprehensive strategy, including evidence-based programs, nutrition, multi-factorial falls prevention innovations and new research.
Presenters:
Kelly Cronin, Deputy Administrator of the Center for Innovation and Partnership, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Kelly Cronin is Deputy Administrator of the Center for Innovation and Partnership at the Administration for Community Living, leading programs and initiatives that serve older adults and people with disabilities. She is a liaison to the Partnership to Align Social Care and its Coordinating Committee.
Leigh Ann Eagle, Chief Operations Officer, Maryland Living Well Center of Excellence–MAC, Inc., Salisbury, MD
[biography]
Leigh Ann Eagle is the Chief Operating Officer of the Living Well Center of Excellence (LWCE) at MAC, Inc., an area agency on aging that oversees Maryland’s implementation of Healthy Aging Evidence Based Programs. Ms. Eagle is responsible for all aspects of program management for LWCE.
W36) Community Care Corps: Volunteerism as a Bridge to Support
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
The National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers recommends a robust system of family caregiver supports leveraging the strengths of community-based organizations and volunteers to ensure community living is a reality for all. Community Care Corps, a national program funded by the U.S. Administration for Community Living, supports innovative programs providing nonmedical volunteer assistance to family caregivers, older adults and persons with disabilities to maintain their independence at home. This session highlights three different grantee programs focused on transportation, respite and social connection. Explore how these programs uplift volunteers, care recipients and family caregivers; build trust in communities with limited resources; and foster dignity, accessibility and mutual growth.
Presenters:
Christian Flores, Program Manager, USAging, Washington, DC
Sara Paige, Project Manager, Oasis Institute, St. Louis, MO
[biography]
Sara is the Project Manager for Community Care Corps and has been with Oasis for eight years. Prior, Sara was a Project Coordinator focusing on falls prevention programs in the St. Louis area and across Missouri. Sara has 30+ years of experience as an OT in numerous areas of care.
W38) AAA and SUA Collaboration to Improve Outcomes for Older Adults
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
The State Unit on Aging/AAA foundation is rooted in the Older Americans Act regulations and requirements; however, true success comes from communication, collaboration and aligning mission, vision and priorities. Leaders from Georgia’s Aging Network will share tips and activities that it embeds in the development process of its state plan on aging and area plan on aging, as well as ongoing communication strategies that have helped to strengthen the Aging Network across Georgia.
Presenters:
Becky Kurtz, Managing Director, Aging & Independence Services and Director, Area Agency on Aging, Atlanta Regional Commission, Atlanta, GA
[biography]
Becky Kurtz, JD, leads service delivery and prepares for the future of the rapidly aging metro Atlanta region, as the director of the area agency on aging within the Atlanta Regional Commission. Each year, tens of thousands of people receive services through ARC’s Empowerline, a trusted source for connecting resources.
MaryLea Boatwright Quinn, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Division of Aging Services, Georgia Department of Human Services, Atlanta, GA
[biography]
MaryLea is a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience serving older adults in direct practice and macro practice across many home & community based settings. She currently leads Georgia's state unit on aging as the Assistant Deputy Commissioner of the Division of Aging Services.
Melissa Armstrong, CEO, Legacy Link Area Agency on Aging, Oakwood, GA
[biography]
Melissa Armstrong is the CEO of Legacy Link, a nonprofit Area Agency on Aging. Melissa oversees comprehensive care for thousands of clients within her region. Her extensive expertise is complemented by a Master of Social Work and graduate certificates in Nonprofit Management and Gerontology from the University of Georgia.
W39) From 911 to Advocacy: A Community Partnership Strengthening Elder Justice in Long-Term Care
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Howard County’s Ombudsman Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Outreach Initiative is a nationally recognized model for advancing advocacy and elder justice by transforming first responders into partners in identifying, reporting and preventing abuse or neglect in long-term-care (LTC) settings. Launched in 2025, the initiative trained 82 EMS personnel to recognize red flags, understand key regulatory differences across LTC environments and report concerns accurately through proper channels. Early outcomes include increased abuse reporting, reductions in unnecessary 911 calls and stronger cross-agency collaboration that enhances resident safety and reduces system strain. This session will demonstrate how strategic partnerships between Ombudsman programs, EMS and regulatory entities can strengthen local elder justice systems and build a more coordinated community safety net. Attendees will leave with practical tools and guidance to replicate.
Presenter:
Katy Lee, Ombudsman Program Manager, Office on Aging & Independence, Columbia, MD
[biography]
Katy champions long-term care residents in Howard County, leading initiatives that earned a national recognition award from NACo. She trained fire/rescue professionals to identify and report abuse, strengthened safeguards for vulnerable populations, and continues to advance resident rights through impactful advocacy, systemic improvements, and community education.
W41) Securing Opioid Settlement Funds: Strategies to Support Kinship and Grandfamilies
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
The Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio, Inc. (AOoA), Kinship Navigator Program partnered with Lucas County Children Services (LCCS) to secure opioid settlement funds through the OneOhio Recovery Foundation. This two-year grant (2025–2026) supports the expansion of the LCCS Family Search & Engagement and START Programs, as well as additional services through the AOoA Kinship Navigator Program for families affected by opioid misuse. The partnership enables the Kinship Navigator team to provide the evidence-based Guiding Good Choices® workshop; publish
Empowering Kinship Families: Resources for Opioid Recovery & Prevention;
and launch a new podcast series,
Roots of Resilience: Empowering Kinship Families Amid Opioid Recovery.
Attendees will gain insight into obtaining opioid settlement funds and strategies to strengthen kinship and grandfamilies.
Presenters:
Arcelia Armstrong, Director Caregiver Support and Kinship Navigator Programs, Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio, Inc., Toledo, OH
[biography]
Arcelia Armstrong licensed social worker with over 25 years clinical experience. At the Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio, she is Director of Caregiver Support and Kinship Navigator Programs. She has a B.S. in Social Work from Tuskegee University and Certificate in Executive Leadership from Center for Nonprofit Resources.
Melissa McCartt, Supervisor of Family Search & Engagement, Lucas County Children Services, Toledo, OH
[biography]
Melissa McCartt, MSW, LSW, is Supervisor of Family Search and Engagement at Lucas County Children Services. With 20 years in child welfare, she leads Kinnect to Family efforts, is EMDR-trained, and serves on the OhioKAN Advisory Council, advocating for meaningful family connections to support child well-being.
Marsha Rose, Kinship Navigator Program Supervisor, Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio, Inc., Toledo, OH
[biography]
Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in Ohio and Michigan and graduate of the University of Toledo. Over 25 years of experience in areas including Developmental Disabilities, Older Adults, Mental Health, Substance Use Disorders, Case Management, Specialized Information and Referral Services, Medicaid Waiver Healthcare Compliance and Oversight, and Medical Practice Management.
W42) Improving Brain Health in American Indian and Alaska Native Communities
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
In this session, the International Association for Indigenous Aging (IA2) will provide instruction on using culturally adapted resources to promote brain health in American Indian and Alaska Native communities while highlighting the connection between cognitive wellness and elder justice. Participants will learn how these resources are developed; best practices for implementing them in Tribal communities; and how honoring the history, rights, cultures, sovereignty and inherent value of American Indian and Alaska Native peoples supports both brain health and the safety, dignity and protection of elders. Addressing both brain health and elder justice improves the lives of Tribal elders, their families and the overall health of the communities in which they live.
Presenter:
Megan Dicken, Public Health and Aging Associate, International Association for Indigenous Aging, Atlanta, GA
[biography]
Megan Dicken is the Public Health and Aging Associate at the International Association for Indigenous Aging and an enrolled member of the United Houma Nation of Louisiana. Having cared for grandparents living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, Megan has personal insights into the prevention and treatment of ADRD.
W43) Multi-Sector Plans: From Idea to Implementation to Impact
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
California is at the midpoint of implementing its 10-year blueprint for an age- and ability-friendly state known as the Master Plan for Aging. As the Plan evolves, and state and local leadership transitions, California is evaluating its success to date with an eye toward sustainability. Hear from experts on what is essential—in any Administration—to a comprehensive aging and disability plan.
Presenters:
Lori Peterson, Strategy, Cross-Sector Partnership Development, Facilitation, Collaborative Consulting, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Lori Peterson has 25 years of experience in the healthcare industry and a background in psychology and organizational development, Lori’s expertise ranges from business development to strategic partnerships, cross-sector collaborative development to multi-stakeholder facilitation, new service design to change activation and implementation.
Sarah Steenhausen, Deputy Director-Policy, Research, and Equity, California Department of Aging, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
Sarah serves as Deputy Director of the Division of Policy, Research & Engagement. She collaborates with state departments & stakeholders in developing policy and research impacting older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers to advance system change and realize the goals of California’s Master Plan for Aging.
Susan DeMarois, Director, California Department of Aging, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
Susan DeMarois, Director the California Department of Aging (CDA), oversees a network of 33 AAAs, 11 Caregiver Resource Centers, nearly 350 Medicaid HCBS programs, and the LTC Ombudsman program and its 8,500+ licensed facilities. CDA also has primary responsibility for implementing Governor Gavin Newsom's Master Plan for Aging.
W45) Aging With Disability: Building Respectful, Welcoming and Accessible Communities
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Across the United States, older adults are increasingly aging with disabilities or acquiring them as they age, yet many aging and disability systems continue to operate in silos. This session explores how San Francisco is modeling a disability-forward approach that can inform national practice. Presenters will highlight the Disability Cultural Center, the Age and Disability Affordable Housing Implementation Plan, Age & Disability Friendly SF, and new approaches to designing accessible public spaces, illustrated through major capital investments. The session will examine ableism, belonging and what it takes for communities to embrace disability as a natural part of the aging journey. Attendees will gain practical strategies they can adapt to ensure that AAA and Title VI programs across the country are respectful, welcoming and accessible.
Presenters:
Christina Mills, Executive Director, California Association of Area Agencies on Aging, Benicia, CA
Eli Gelardin, Director, San Francisco Office on Disability and Accessibility (formerly the Mayor's Office on Disability), San Francisco, CA
Kelly Dearman, Executive Director, San Francisco Disability and Aging Services, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Executive Director, San Francisco Department of Disability and Aging Services (DAS). Kelly leads the City’s integrated aging and disability service system, supporting independence, dignity, and community living for more than 70,000 older adults and disabled residents.
W46) HealthRHYTHMS Group Empowerment Drumming for Social Connection and Health
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
HealthRHYTHMS is an evidence-based recreational music-making wellness program that involves group empowerment drumming. The program brings people together for fun and enjoyment. Peer-reviewed published studies have demonstrated that the program reduces depression, anxiety, tension, improves communication, builds camaraderie and reduces stress. Information will also be provided about opportunities to become a trained facilitator and for data collection.
Presenters:
Anne Wildman, Associate Director-Aging and Disability Services, Northern Kentucky Area Development District, Florence, OH
[biography]
Anne Wildman, LSW is Associate Director-Aging and Disability Services at Northern Kentucky Area Development District. She has a demonstrated history of working in the government administration industry. She is skilled nonprofit organizations, government, program evaluation, case management, and team building. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work.
Arlene de Silva, CEO, Cincinnati Music & Wellness Coalition, Cincinnati, OH
[biography]
Arlene de Silva is the Founder and CEO of Cincinnati Music & Wellness Coalition (CMWC), the nation's first community-wide recreational music making coalition. Prior to founding CMWC, she worked for the Area Agency on Aging in Cincinnati serving as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer.
W47) Investing in Aging: Strategies, Partnerships and Opportunities
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
It is often noted that roughly 2 percent of philanthropic funding in the United States is directed toward efforts to improve the lives of older adults, though a reliable source for this figure remains difficult to confirm. Grantmakers In Aging, a community of funders mobilizing money and ideas for a better later life for all, believes all funders can maximize their impact by considering investments across the lifespan. This session will provide an overview of the aging philanthropy landscape, highlighting key trends and funding priorities. A panel of funders will discuss their current funding strategies, including partnerships with AAAs and other community-based organizations. We will conclude with a forward-looking conversation on strategies to attract more funders to aging services and strengthen cross-sector collaboration for greater impact.
Presenter:
Emily Hinsey, Chief Program Officer, Grantmakers In Aging, White Plains, NY
[biography]
Emily serves as the Chief Program Officer for Grantmakers In Aging (GIA), a network of
funders mobilizing money and ideas to strengthen policies, programs, and resources for all
of us as we age.
W48) Aligning Ohio’s AAA Network for Integrated Care: Early Lessons and Collaboration
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Ohio is undertaking a major transformation of integrated care for individuals eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, moving to a statewide, phased rollout of a Fully Integrated Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (FIDE SNP) model in 2026. AAAs drew on more than a decade of experience in Ohio’s CMS Duals Financial Alignment Demonstration to prepare for this transition. Through a coordinated effort involving AAA directors, association leadership, workgroups and health plan partners, the network developed shared approaches, clarified roles, and strengthened relationships ahead of implementation. This session will highlight early lessons, challenges and opportunities from this collaborative preparation process and offer practical strategies that AAAs can apply when navigating large-scale integrated care changes in their own states.
Presenters:
Angela Weaver, Director of Regulatory Affairs, Ohio Association of Health Plans, Columbus, OH
[biography]
Angela joined OAHP in 2013 after serving as the Legislative Liaison for the Ohio Department of Medicaid and the Governor’s Office of Health Transformation. She served in various positions in the Ohio Senate for almost five years. Angela received her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science degree from Denison University.
Beth Kowalczyk, Chief Policy Officer, Ohio Association of Area Agencies on Aging, Columbus, OH
[biography]
Chief Policy Officer - Ohio Association of Area Agencies on Aging (o4a) and member of City Council in Worthington, Ohio. Bachelor of Arts, Kent State University. Juris Doctorate, New York University School of Law. Admitted to Ohio Bar in 1993.
Suzanne Burke, Chief Executive Officer, Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio, Blue Ash, OH
[biography]
Suzanne Burke is Chief Executive Officer of Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio. She has served in this position since 2005. Suzanne has a master’s degree in Business Administration (Marketing) from Xavier University and a bachelor’s degree in Marketing with a minor in Gerontology from Miami University.
11:45 AM
1:00 PM
Networking Lunch in the Tradeshow
1:00 PM
2:00 PM
Workshops
W50) Building the Texas Hub Collaborative to Advance Social-Health Integration
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Texas Healthy at Home and Community Assistance and Transition Care of Houston will share how two community care hubs (CCHs) joined forces to create the Texas Hub Collaborative (THC), a statewide effort designed to strengthen social-health integration and expand coordinated services for older adults and people with disabilities. Using the six nationally recognized CCH domains, THC developed a shared, advanced hub model in partnership with more than 20 Texas AAAs. In addition to the hub perspective, the Harris County AAA director will share how the process unfolded from the AAA standpoint. Attendees will gain tangible tools and replicable strategies to create and enhance partnerships and coordination strategies. This interactive workshop will help participants apply lessons learned to their local context.
Presenters:
Christina Bartha, Chief Executive Officer, Texas Healthy at Home, North Richland Hills, TX
[biography]
Christina Bartha, CEO of Texas Healthy at Home, leads statewide efforts to strengthen community health and aging services. With expertise in partnership and coalition building, she co-leads aging initiatives and advances integrated care systems across Texas. She holds a master’s in gerontology and is a certified yoga and meditation teacher.
Janice Sparks, CATCH Executive Director, CATCH Greater Houston Community Care Hub, Houston, TX
[biography]
Dr. Sparks is an accomplished healthcare executive and gerontology expert with over 15 years of integrated care leadership, specializing in healthcare innovation, cross-sector partnerships, and large-scale program development to build sustainable systems that improve health and social outcomes for diverse communities.
Paula Johnson, Bureau Chief, Harris County Area Agency on Aging/Houston Health Department, Houston, TX
[biography]
Paula Johnson is the Bureau Chief for the Harris County Area Agency on Aging (HCAAA), an agency imbedded within the Houston Health Department. The HCAAA's programs are tailored to meet the social, nutritional, educational, and logistical needs of all Harris County residents aged 60 and above.
W51) Puzzle Pieces and Pathways: Making Sense of Caregiver Navigation
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Join USAging and partners for an energizing session exploring approaches to enhance the value and impact of your Title III E caregiver navigation services! Now in its second year, the Caregiver Navigation Services project is boosting the Aging Network’s capacity to connect caregivers with the right resources at the right time. Explore the core components of effective navigation models, learn what’s driving successful AAA partnerships and gain early insights from the field. The team will also introduce practical, outcome-focused tools you can use to demonstrate impact and elevate your program’s story. Whether you're refining an existing model or building one from the ground up, this session will equip you with strategies to enhance support for caregivers in your community.
Presenters:
Cheryl Clark, Director, Caregiver Support Program, Philadelphia Corporation for Aging, Philadelphia, PA
[biography]
Cheryl Clark-Woods, M.S.W. has more than 35 years of experience working with seniors, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers in the Philadelphia community. She is dedicated to bringing awareness and supporting the well-being of caregivers by connecting them to services, supports, and resources to enrich the caregiving experience.
Kate Singer, Senior Research Associate, Scripps Gerontology Center, Miami University, Oxford, OH
[biography]
Kate Singer, PhD, MA is a Senior Research Associate at Scripps Gerontology Center at Miami University. She works on a variety of projects with many centered around evaluating care experiences Outside of this work her research interests include examining wellbeing outcomes for family caregivers and people living alone with dementia.
Christina Edwardson, Family Caregiver Specialist, Area Agency on Aging of the Coastal Bend, Corpus Christi, TX
[biography]
A passionate caregiver advocate with 13+ years of experience in education, support services, and community outreach. Known for expertise and genuine compassion, Christina is a Texas A&M–Corpus Christi graduate, wife, and proud mom of three boys—committed to empowering families through knowledge and care.
W52) Advocacy in Action: Proven Strategies and Tools to Influence Policymakers and Advance Aging Services
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Looking for ways to improve the efficacy of your agency’s advocacy? Two AAAs will share their time-tested strategies and success stories of proactively building strong relationships with elected officials and staff, crafting advocacy messages that work, using data and stories, and tapping the AAA advisory council to harness the grassroots power in the community and more. Coordinated, persistent advocacy can shape policy, protect vulnerable populations and expand resources for older adults—join this workshop to refresh your advocacy toolbox and get some inspiration on what’s possible!
Presenters:
Christina Marneris, Community Services Director, Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities of Southwest Washington, Vancouver, WA
[biography]
Christina is a seasoned Program Management professional with a passion for driving meaningful impact—both within organizations and across the communities they serve. Known for aligning mission-driven goals with operational excellence, She takes pride in transforming vision into reality through successful program execution.
Amanda Sears, Chief Community Impact Officer, The Senior Alliance, Dearborn, MI
[biography]
Amanda Sears is Director of Planning and Projects at The Senior Alliance. With over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Amanda has a passion for leading initiatives, building community coalitions, and developing programs that expand access to high quality services for older adults and caregivers.
Jason Maciejewski, Chief Executive Officer, The Senior Alliance, Dearborn, MI
[biography]
Jason Maciejewski, M.P.A., is Chief Executive Officer of The Senior Alliance since 2021, previously serving as the agency’s Deputy Director and Chief Advocacy & Planning Officer. He also has thirteen years as a Government Relations Manager and legislative staffer. Jason serves as a Washtenaw County Commissioner, first elected in 2018.
W53) Supporting Families With Unique Needs Through End-of-Life Care Planning
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
This session explores Pima Council on Aging's work providing tailored advance care planning assistance for older adults with different cultural perspectives and varying cognitive decision-making abilities. Discover how bilingual services protect care recipients’ dignity while empowering informal caregivers through cultural and linguistic acccessibility. Discuss capacity and its limitations for people living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias and their informal caregivers through sensitive approaches that honor varied family values, traditions and needs. Attendees will discover innovative strategies for normalizing cross-cultural end-of-life conversations, identify unique family caregiving dynamics, and how to adapt sensitive and responsive care plans. Learn how to integrate client-centered end-of-life planning and informed consent to empower and honor all older adults and create more cooperative, compassionate and connected caregiving experiences.
Presenters:
Deb Seng, Resources and Supports Director, Pima Council on Aging, Tucson, AZ
[biography]
Deb Seng serves as Pima Council on Aging’s Resources and Supports Director, and has worked with PCOA since 2019. Deb innovates programming to meet client needs and ensure excellent service delivery with a diverse 25-year history of caring for people.
Harbhajan Khalsa, Health and Wellness Director, PCOA, Tucson, AZ
[biography]
Harbhajan Khalsa serves as the Pima Council on Aging’s Director for Health and Wellness and has seven years of experience at PCOA. She started her career in behavioral health then transitioned to serving older adults at PCOA in 2018.
Lisa Reams, Vice President, Programs & Services, Pima Council on Aging, Tucson, AZ
[biography]
Lisa Reams has served as the Vice President of Programs & Services for Pima Council on Aging, the Area Agency on Aging in Tucson, AZ, since 2017. She has successfully started and led community-based programming for over 30 years as a volunteer, mediator, program manager, and executive leader.
W54) ACL Discussion Session for Regions 4, 6 and 7
Note: This session is only open to AAAs and Title VI programs.
Join your AAA/Title VI peers in your regions for an open dialogue with U.S. Administration for Community Living senior leaders. Bring your questions, concerns and successes from the AAA/Title VI perspective to share with our federal partners.
Presenters:
Adam Mosey, Special Assistant, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Adam Mosey currently serves as a Special Assistant at the Administration on Aging, one of ACL’s programmatic Centers, where he works on key policy and program issues related to the Older Americans Act. He also concurrently serves as a Sergeant First Class in the Army National Guard.
Alice Kelsey, Deputy Director, Administration on Aging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Alice Kelsey is the Deputy Director for the Administration on Aging. She has 15 years’ experience in the Aging Network and holds a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs.
Kari Benson, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Kari Benson serves as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging for the Administration on Aging. Kari has spent her entire career in the aging network and holds degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota.
W55) Building Trust Through Connection: Outreach for Aging Populations
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Older adults are one of the fastest growing and most unique populations in the United States, yet many continue to feel overlooked, isolated or mistrustful of service systems. This workshop introduces a practical, evidence-based model for strengthening engagement with older adults through trust-building, culturally responsive outreach and age-friendly marketing. Using real case studies, visuals and data from outreach efforts, participants will explore how trauma-informed communication, intentional partnerships and thoughtful design can transform outreach from a visibility effort into a meaningful connection strategy. Attendees will learn the P.L.A.N. Outreach Framework—Preparation, Location, Audience and Needs—as introduced in Building Trust Through Connection, and understand how this model increases participation, improves service uptake and reduces mistrust across all aging communities. Participants will leave with ready-to-use tools.
Presenter:
Jennifer Scott, Director, Area Agency on Aging Capital Area, Austin, TX
W56) Learn About Dementia Friends USA—and Become a Dementia Friend!
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
More than 7 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, and most remain at home with support from a care partner. People with dementia often need simple, everyday help to stay engaged in their communities. Dementia Friends empowers individuals to recognize, respond to, and support those living with dementia by increasing understanding and encouraging small, meaningful actions. Dementia Friends USA is a movement changing how people think, act, and talk about dementia. This session will cover the basics of dementia, communication and engagement tips; the five key messages of Dementia Friends; and how to bring the program to your community.
Presenters:
Jennifer Hammer, Assistant Director, Dementia Friendly America, USAging, Washington, DC
Mary Ek, Director, Dementia Friendly America and Community Care Corps, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Mary Ek is the Program Director for Dementia Friendly America, a national initiative administered by USAging. Through her work, Mary supports dementia-friendly communities and Dementia Friends administrators by providing technical assistance, facilitating webinars and collaboration among stakeholders and managing the development and sharing of dementia-resources.
W57) Scaling Community-Clinical Integration Through Community Care Hubs
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
This session will discuss timely and significant opportunities to scale evidence-based prevention and whole-person health services through strengthened community-clinical integration. Community care hubs (CCHs) offer a proven infrastructure for improving outcomes and reducing institutional care by connecting health care entities with networks of local community-based organizations such as AAAs, Centers for Independent Living and other specialty community health providers. The US Administration for Community Living will present why scaling community-clinical integration through CCHs is a high priority and highlight federal investments to support this work. Two advanced CCHs will discuss partnerships with health care partners, collaboration models, populations served, impact achieved and the business case.
Presenters:
Janice Sparks, CATCH Executive Director, CATCH Greater Houston Community Care Hub, Houston, TX
[biography]
Dr. Sparks is an accomplished healthcare executive and gerontology expert with over 15 years of integrated care leadership, specializing in healthcare innovation, cross-sector partnerships, and large-scale program development to build sustainable systems that improve health and social outcomes for diverse communities.
Kathy Vesley, President & CEO, Bay Aging, Urbanna, VA
[biography]
Kathy Vesley is the President and CEO of Bay Aging, a nonprofit Area Agency on Aging (AAA), and VAAACares®, Virginia’s Community Care Hub. VAAACares® is a nationally recognized successful hub that contracts with multiple health plans, health systems, the VA, and partners with a variety of CBOs to provide
Will Bleser, Innovation and Strategy Lead, Whole-Person Health, Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Will leads ACL’s strategy to scale innovative whole-person health and evidence-based prevention programs and infrastructure. Will holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Health Policy and Administration and Demography from Pennsylvania State University and a Master of Science in Public Health from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
W58) Self-Directed Transportation—Complete Planning and Implementation to Fill Rural Transportation Gaps
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Area Agency on Aging of North Idaho saw a need to provide more effective transportation to rural areas. Using the same basic format utilized for other self-directed programs the AAA designed a program that provides seniors with transportation to medical appointments, shopping and social events. Those providing service are selected by the client and stay with the client throughout the outing. This session will include the process of petitioning private funding, defining the service provider as an independent contractor, tax implications and the importance of a liability statement to protect the State Unit on Aging, AAA and client.
Presenters:
Janet Miller, Program Specialist, Idaho Commission on Aging, Boise, ID
[biography]
Janet Miller is a Program Specialist with the Idaho Commission on Aging where she oversees six statewide programs. Prior to serving the seniors of Idaho she spent twenty years in marketing for healthcare and non-profit organizations. Janet completed her Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing at Boise State
Pamela Pearson, Senior Program Coordinator, Area Agency on Aging of North Idaho, Coeur d'Alene, ID
[biography]
Pam Pearson has been a passionate Idaho public servant for 25 years, managing a variety of social and economic programs.  10 years of live-in caregiver experience, and navigating a vast, fragmented care system continues to fuel her desire to implement effective, innovative and easily accessible services for Idaho seniors.
W59) Life Is a Highway: Linking Mobility to Meaningful Connection
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Transportation is a lifeline to community, independence, and purpose. This session will explore how access to reliable, person-centered transportation reduces social isolation and promotes engagement among older adults. Staff from USAging’s social connections and Transportation and Mobility programs will share recent research and national initiatives linking transportation to social connection. A local AAA will offer a community perspective, highlighting innovative strategies that use transportation to help older adults stay active and involved. Participants will gain practical insights and replicable ideas for integrating transportation into efforts that strengthen social connectedness and improve well-being.
Presenters:
Meredith Hanley, Program Director, Commit to Connect, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Meredith Hanley serves as a Program Director overseeing USAging’s work relation to social connection, caregiving services and supports and kinship care.
Lina Nasr, Older Adult Nutrition and Community Improvement Specialist, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Lina holds a Public Health Master’s degree and has worked in the field of health behavior and education for over 20 years. She has been with the County of San Diego since 2013, and currently provides Community Engagement sessions that empower low-income participants to make sustainable improvements in their community.
David Somers, Senior Research Associate, Transportation and Mobility, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Staff
W61) Boots on the Ground: Advancing Veteran-Directed Care Through Collaboration and Innovation
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical insights from two successful Veteran-Directed Care (VDC) programs in Wisconsin and Illinois! Our presenters will share proven strategies for delivering VDC services, both directly and through the Hub-and-Spoke model, along with best practices and lessons learned that attendees can apply to their own programs. After these short presentations, an interactive discussion will be held for attendees to ask questions, exchange ideas and share experiences. This is a chance to connect with peers, discover innovative approaches and strengthen impact for veterans and their families. Join us and be part of a collaborative conversation that will help shape the future of VDC programs!
Presenters:
Lucinda Hurt, Manager of Access Services and Community Programs, AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois, Lombard, IL
[biography]
Lucinda Hurt is the Manager of Access Services and Community Programs at AgeGuide, Northeastern Illinois. Lucinda has over 25 years of experience working in the aging network both in long term care and community-based services. While at AgeGuide, Lucinda’s focus includes supporting network wide program delivery and quality improvement.
Lisa Drouin, VA Programs Manager, Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources, Madison, WI
[biography]
Lisa Drouin is currently the VA Programs Manager for Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources. During her 16 years in this position, Lisa has established VDC programs with multiple VAs. Lisa has a Bachelor of Psychology and Master of Social Work from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
W62) Bridging Aging and Disability Networks: California’s Experience
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are living longer and most are living with aging caregivers. While individuals with IDD have similar aging-related needs, they also have some unique support needs that require cross-sector innovation and capacity building to improve system navigation and access to services. As part of Master Plan on Aging, California is strengthening state and local partnerships to bridge supports across aging and disability service systems. Learn about how California is leveraging the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities Bridging Aging and Disability Network initiative and the Direct Care Workforce Strategies Center State Advancement Lab to plan for improved service coordination and develop training focused on the needs and resources available to aging individuals with IDD.
Presenters:
Anson Houghton, Program Administrator, Area 4 Agency on Aging, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
• Anson Houghton has over 25 years of experience working with older adults and people with disabilities. Working with the Agency on Aging Area 4 (AAA4), Anson oversees their case management team, five Aging and Disability Resource Connections and develops programming outside of the agency’s traditional Older American Act funding.
Alison Giannini, Aging Services Branch Manager, Department of Developmental Services, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
Alison Giannini serves as the Aging Services Branch Manager of the Statewide Clinical Services Division at the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). She works to inform and actionize policies and coordinate DDS’ efforts to elevate and support the needs of older adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Ana Acton, Assistant Deputy Director, California Department of Aging, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
Ana Acton serves as the Assistant Deputy Director of the Division of Policy, Research, and Engagement at the California Department of Aging. In this role, she collaborates with state departments and stakeholders to advance the Master Plan for Aging and policy impacting older adults, people with disabilities caregivers.
W63) Future-Ready AAAs: Scenario Planning Tools to Strengthen Strategy and Resilience
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Scenario planning helps build organizational capacity to face uncertainty by exploring multiple plausible futures, supporting proactive planning rather than reactive responses. This interactive session introduces a practical scenario planning framework, including four classic scenario types: growth, collapse, constraint and transformation. Participants will apply the method to their context, identify early indicators (signals) that suggest a scenario may be unfolding and outline strategic responses that strengthen readiness. Through examples grounded in aging services, participants will learn how scenario planning strengthens decision-making and generates new ideas. Attendees will leave with tools they can immediately use to guide strategy in their agencies and communities.
Presenters:
Lori Peterson, Strategy, Cross-Sector Partnership Development, Facilitation, Collaborative Consulting, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Lori Peterson has 25 years of experience in the healthcare industry and a background in psychology and organizational development, Lori’s expertise ranges from business development to strategic partnerships, cross-sector collaborative development to multi-stakeholder facilitation, new service design to change activation and implementation.
Miranda Kunkel, Consultant, Collaborative Consulting, Cincinnati, OH
[biography]
Miranda Kunkel is a consultant at Collaborative Consulting where she specializes in mixed-methods research, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement. She is passionate about improving programs and services for older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers. Miranda holds a Master's in Social Work and PhD in Social Gerontology.
W64) The Aging Network's Support of Kinship Families: No-Cost Tips for Starting or Enhancing Services
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Nationwide, grandparents, other relatives and close family friends raise more than 2.5 million children whose biological parents are unable to do so for various reasons. While research shows that both kin caregivers and the children they raise benefit from being in “kinship families,” studies also indicate that these families are disproportionately impacted by financial instability, disability and trauma and that the well-being of all family members improves when they receive appropriate services. This workshop will highlight recent research on how AAAs and Title VI programs currently support kinship families and offer guidance on starting new kinship services or enhancing existing ones. Attendees also will hear how the no-cost technical assistance that one AAA received from the Grandfamilies & Kinship Support Network helped them grow their kinship services.
Presenters:
Ana Beltran, Director, Generations United, Washington, DC
[biography]
Ana Beltran is an attorney and director of the Grandfamilies & Kinship Support Network: A National Technical Assistance Center at Generations United. For over twenty years, Beltran has worked on the array of issues impacting grandfamilies, providing technical assistance and training to state agencies, legislatures, nonprofit organizations, and legal providers.
Lina Nasr, Older Adult Nutrition and Community Improvement Specialist, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Lina holds a Public Health Master’s degree and has worked in the field of health behavior and education for over 20 years. She has been with the County of San Diego since 2013, and currently provides Community Engagement sessions that empower low-income participants to make sustainable improvements in their community.
Leland Kiang, Program Manager, Grandfamilies and Kinship Support Network: A National Technical Assistance Center, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Leland Kiang manages USAging’s role in the Grandfamilies and Kinship Support Network: A National Technical Assistance Center, which is funded by the Administration for Community Living and led by Generations United, to increase the capacity of states, territories, tribes and community-based organizations (CBOs) to support kinship/grandfamilies.
W65) Smart Home Accessibility Solutions for Falls Prevention and Aging in Place
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
How can we leverage technology to make homes safer and more accessible? Innovative smart home devices and other assistive technologies (AT) expand ways to make homes accessible, prevent falls, and support aging in place. In this workshop facilitated by the U.S. Administration for Community Living's Housing and Services Resource Center (HSRC), WellWise Services AAA shares how their successful AT program helps older adults and family caregivers access and integrate AT into their homes. The Utah AT Program highlights strategies on how AAAs can partner with state AT programs to help clients adopt AT. In a facilitated discussion, attendees will share their AAAs’ strategies and partnerships and suggest practical steps to enhance AT utilization. HSRC will also identify key resources for attendees about AT to promote housing stability and aging in place.
Presenters:
Bora Lee, Program Director, Utah Assistive Technology Program, Logan, UT
[biography]
Will add
Katie Clark, Policy Analyst, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Katie is a Policy Analyst at the Administration for Community Living and leads the Commit to Connect Initiative, a cross-sector initiative promoting social engagement and connection.
Nichole Baker, Chief Services Officer, WellWise Services, Jackson, MI
[biography]
Nichole Baker is the Chief Services Officer at WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging, in South Central Michigan. Nichole leads program development, advocacy, and grant-funded initiatives, with a focus on community planning and systems analysis. She’s served in a variety of roles with area nonprofits providing clinical supervision and direct community services.
2:00 PM
3:00 PM
Networking Break in the Tradeshow
3:00 PM
4:00 PM
Roundtables
RT03) Advocating in Complicated Times
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Join USAging’s policy team and your peers for a conversation about how to protect your strong and appropriate advocacy role under the Older Americans Act, despite a highly charged political climate. Bring your examples of successful advocacy techniques, messaging and campaigns!
Presenters:
Amy Gotwals, Chief, Public Policy and External Affairs, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
In her role, Amy leads USAging's public policy, advocacy, communications, external relations and membership relations activities. Representing local aging agencies, Amy serves as the lead in outreach to Congress and the Administration to ensure that needed resources and support services are available to older Americans and their caregivers.
Olivia Umoren Ezeuko, Director, Public Policy and Advocacy, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
In her role, Olivia directs the association’s legislative affairs and advocacy efforts to advance federal policies that address the needs of an aging America, plays a vital role in the development of USAging’s policy positions and priorities, and represents USAging in meetings with congressional staff and administration officials.
3:00 PM
3:30 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
FT01) Fostering Independence Through Innovative Transportation Programming
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Access to transportation remains a significant challenge for older adults and individuals with disabilities across Ohio. The Area Agency on Aging 3 addresses this need through its Find A Ride program, which leverages grant funding from the Ohio Department of Transportation Office of Transit, Senior and Community Services and local match dollars to provide both medical and nonmedical transportation. Find A Ride supports older adults and individuals with disabilities living in rural communities by offering no-cost transportation when no other options are available. This vital service helps ensure that community members can access appointments, essential services and daily activities safely and reliably.
Presenter:
Stefanie Motter, Mobility Manager, Area Agency on Aging 3, Lima, OH
[biography]
Stefanie Motter has been the mobility manager for AAA3 since July of 2021. As mobility manager, she assists older individuals and those with disabilities, in a primarily rural region, understand and gain access to their transportation options. Additionally, she supervises the Find A Ride and PASSPORT transportation programs at AAA3.
FT03) Future Fraud—Health Care Scams Related to New Technology
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
In this session, representatives from the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) will discuss health care fraud related to new technology. The adoption of AI and advances in medical care have led to complex scams. The presentation will include examples of high-tech care now being provided in hospice and home health and will include emerging trends, such as new skin substitutes and virtual care. Remote monitoring will be discussed, including AI-based observation used in lieu of health care personnel. New medical identity theft strategies will be presented, including a detailed look at social engineering and the use of AI by criminals. The presentation will also include new products and processes created by the SMP for community partners, aging network professionals and the public.
Presenters:
Jennifer Trussell, Fraud Prevention Consultant, Senior Medicare Patrol Resource Center, Knoxville, TN
[biography]
Jennifer Trussell retired from a 35-year career with HHS-OIG as the Special Agent in Charge of the Investigations Branch and Senior Advisor. She began her law enforcement career in 1989 with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. Jennifer has a master’s degree in policy from Georgetown University.
Rebecca Kinney, Director, Office of Healthcare Information and Counseling, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
As ACL’s OHIC Director, Rebecca manages the administration of the Medicare focused programs and activities managed by ACL including the SHIP, SMP, and MIPPA programs. In this role, she provides oversight and direction to the OHIC team, state grantees, contractors and national centers established to support the OHIC grantees.
FT04) The Wandering Toolkit: Creating a Tribal Safety Net to Address Wandering Persons
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
This workshop will introduce a new community resource that helps families and tribal communities respond when an elder with memory loss or dementia goes missing. The Wandering Toolkit was created with input from Indigenous caregivers, health workers, law enforcement and first responders to provide practical steps for keeping elders safe while respecting cultural values. It offers simple tools and guides to help families and communities plan ahead and support each other if a wandering incident occurs. Through a combination of sharing information, storytelling, question and answer, and interactive dialogue, participants will learn how the toolkit was developed and strategies to adapt and use it in their own communities.
Presenters:
Megan Dicken, Public Health and Aging Associate, International Association for Indigenous Aging, Atlanta, GA
[biography]
Megan Dicken is the Public Health and Aging Associate at the International Association for Indigenous Aging and an enrolled member of the United Houma Nation of Louisiana. Having cared for grandparents living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, Megan has personal insights into the prevention and treatment of ADRD.
Philip Warnock, Executive Director, Oregon Association of Area Agencies on Aging and Disabilities, Salem, OR
FT05) Enhancing Innovative Caregiver Services and Supports With Limited Available Resources
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Across the country, organizations are finding creative ways to support family caregivers, but growing these efforts can be challenging, especially with limited funding. This Fast-Track Session will showcase inventive, budget-friendly models to expand caregiving initiatives. Through interactive discussion and practical examples, attendees will gain insights into successful program adaptations, tools for sustainable growth and actionable ideas to help innovate programs under financial constraints. Whether you’re launching a new program or enhancing an existing one, this session offers fresh perspectives and proven approaches to do more with less.
Presenters:
Christina Irving, Client Services Director, Family Caregiver Alliance, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Christina Irving is a licensed clinical social worker and the Client Services Director at Family Caregiver Alliance. She oversees the staff of the Bay Area Caregiver Resource Center who provide direct services to family caregivers, including assessment, counseling, education, and support. She has been with FCA for over 18 years.
Clairedine Matouba, Senior Program Manager, Innovations in Family Caregiver Services and Supports Initiative, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Clairedine Matouba joined USAging in July 2023 and serves as Senior Program Manager for the Innovations in Family Caregiver Services and Supports Initiative. She leads efforts to design, implement, and evaluate strategies that advance innovative caregiver services and strengthen supports across the Aging Network.
FT06) AAA Today: Presenting Your Area Plan in Engaging Ways
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Are you looking for a way to present your AAA's Area Plan in an engaging way? Hear about a talk-show format that has proven successful for the Marin County, CA, AAA. Attendees will learn how to develop and promote this type of forum, which meets Older Americans Act, State Units on Aging and public opening meeting laws and involves AAA advisory committees. Presenters will also share a screening of a talk show in which the host asks about AAA programs and plans. Scripts and suggested questions will be made available.
Presenters:
Amy Dietz, Senior Program Coordinator, Marin County AAA, San Rafael, CA
Camille Jolly, Area Agency on Aging Program Manager, Aging and Adult Services, County of Marin, San Rafael, CA
[biography]
Camille started her career as a social worker in Australia before landing in CA in 2005. Camille worked as a eligibility worker and supervisor before moving to Aging& Adult Services in 2014, where she worked as a supervisor, most recently moving to the AAA as a Program Manger in 2024.
FT07) Easily Create a Demographic Profile of Older Adults in Your Legislators Districts
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Are you looking to up your advocacy game? Imagine walking into a meeting with a legislator, equipped with visuals that illustrate the realities of adults ages 60+ in their specific district, including poverty rates, isolation, limited English proficiency, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program usage and more. Using common programs, we will walk you through how to easily collect and create visuals of this information effectively. Detailed demographic information, which is easily adaptable to all State and Federal legislative districts in AgeOptions’ service area, helps transform meetings with legislators by providing a natural springboard for conversation that highlights priority populations for AAAs and a key voting block for legislators.
Presenters:
Emma Kidder, Manager - Advocacy and Public Policy, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Emma Kidder, LCSW, MPH is a Manager of Advocacy and Public Policy. She holds a Master of Public Health and a Master in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Emma is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
Peter Byer, Planning and Advocacy Specialist, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
I am the Planning and Advocacy Specialist for AgeOptions, the Area Agency on Aging for suburban Cook County, IL. I am a licensed social worker with broad-based experience in research, public health, immigration, domestic violence and older adult services.
FT08) Wiser Choices for Healthy Aging: Adapting SNAP-Ed to Older Adults’ Needs
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
The Los Angeles County Aging and Disabilities Department administers the CalFresh Healthy Living (CFHL) Program for adults ages 60 and older, providing nutrition education and obesity-prevention services. Historically, CFHL offered the same evidence-based nutrition curriculum at all congregate meal sites, which delivered useful general information but did not fully address the different nutrition needs of each community. The new Wiser Dining pilot program, launched by the California Department of Aging, shifted to a client-centered approach by helping meal sites improve their policies, systems and environments to promote healthier experiences. Instead of a standardized curriculum, Wiser Dining creates site-specific plans based on participants’ priorities, ensuring each community receives tailored support to make healthy, informed choices.
Presenters:
Hripsime Mermeryan, Human Services Administrator I, Los Angeles County, Aging and Disabilities Department, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Hripsime Mermeryan is an Administrator with the Los Angeles County Area Agency on Aging since November 2025. Prior to joining the Elderly Nutrition Program, she served as Program Analyst overseeing Supportive Services, Linkages, and Legal Assistance programs. She also possesses 12 years of experience with the Program and Contracts Divisions.
Sheri Stanton, Community Services Analyst, County of Los Angeles Area Agency on Aging, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Sheri Stanton has been an Analyst with the County of Los Angeles Area Agency on Aging for the past 6 years. She works with Older Adult SNAP-Ed and Nutrition programs.
FT09) Equipping Facilitators for Behavioral Health Realities in EVB Chronic Disease Programs
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
You know your programs work—but many older adults don't enroll or disengage early because behavioral health needs go unsupported. You want to create a welcoming environment and boost attendance but aren't sure how to respond when concerns arise.
You're not alone—60% of chronic disease program facilitators have little to no behavioral health training, and 76% lack engagement strategies. Unsurprisingly, 98% want additional resources.
LECOM Health BRIDGES for Older Adults, an ACL-funded initiative, can help. In this session, we'll share national research findings and introduce BRIDGES—free trainings, toolkits, and resources that equip you to Recognize, Respond to, and Refer older adults with behavioral health concerns. We'll also share low-cost, ready-to-use outreach tools to increase chronic disease class attendance.
Presenters:
Danielle Hansen, Regional President of LECOM Health, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM), Erie, PA
[biography]
Dr. Hansen is a specialist in internal medicine and geriatrics with the LECOM Institute for Successful Living and Medical Associates of Erie, VP of Acute Care, Behavioral Health, and Quality at Millcreek Community Hospital, Medical Director for Medical Associates of Erie, and Clinical Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine at LECOM.
Meghan Kinter, Chief Strategic Growth Officer, LECOM Behavioral Health, Erie, PA
[biography]
Dr. Meghan Kinter is Chief Strategic Growth Officer at LECOM Behavioral Health and Project Manager for LECOM Health BRIDGES for Older Adults. With two decades of experience in strategy, marketing, and organizational leadership, she has led regional and national initiatives across cause-based, academic, and healthcare settings.
FT11) Meeting the Needs of People with IDD and Dementia: Strategies for Professionals
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Advances in medicine and technology are extending the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), but their longer lifespan also increases their risk of developing dementia. Some specific IDD also increase a person’s likelihood of developing dementia. Dementia presents differently in individuals with IDD, and the needs of people with IDD and dementia often call for unique skillsets among health care professionals and primary support providers. In this session, we will discuss various methods to identify and provide services to people with IDD who have dementia or are at risk of developing it. We will also present a selection of tools that professionals can share with families or other caregivers who work with these individuals.
Presenters:
Erin Long, Aging Services Program Specialist, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Coming soon
Katelyn Marschall, Research Public Health Analyst, RTI International, NY
[biography]
Katelyn Marschall is a research public health analyst at RTI International. Before joining RTI, she worked for the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. Ms. Marschall has expertise in the aging and disability space, with a focus on dementia, elder justice, and adult protective services in both government and community settings.
FT12) Pop-Up: It's Not a Jack-in-the-Box
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Across rural America, traditional senior centers are rapidly declining, leaving many older adults in small towns—some with populations under 500—with limited resources and isolated. Our agency took a bold step: we let go of the brick-and-mortar model and partnered with local organizations to bring Healthy Aging Pop-Up Meal Sites directly into these communities. Each site offers nutritious meals, health education, outreach and opportunities for social connection, all while maximizing limited Older Americans Act funding through creative local partnerships. The results are compelling—attendance and participant contributions are strong, and satisfaction levels continue to rise. This session will share the process, lessons learned and practical tools to help agencies replicate this model. Attendees will leave with strategies to identify community partners, launch cost-effective pop-up sites and expand access to healthy aging.
Presenters:
Anna Williams, Nutrition Team Lead Meals, Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, Inc, Waterloo, IA
[biography]
Anna Williams is the Meals Lead at NEI3A. She graduated from University of Iowa with a degree in Health and Human Physiology. She has over six years of experience in health, exercise and nutrition. She enjoys implementing innovative meal programs and strategies to help older adults access better nutrition.
Janet Buls, Director of Nutrition Services, Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, Inc., Waterloo, IA
[biography]
Janet Buls, Nutrition Director at Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, has over 25 years of experience in the aging network. With a degree in Family Services, she’s passionate about creating innovative programs and ensuring older adults have access to nutritious meals, always asking, "Why not?" to drive change.
FT13) Integrating Caregivers Into the Age-Friendly Ecosystem
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
How do we ensure that caregivers are seen and heard and no longer the “invisible backbone” of our long-term-care system? Solutions should not happen in silos! Join us for an interactive and imperative conversation guided by representatives from the Aging Network, health care and a social care service provider/family caregiver to strategize on innovative ways to partner to address gaps in family caregiver access and support. Presenters will share how cross-collaboration between AAAs and both health and social care within health care systems have promoted integration of caregivers into the age-friendly ecosystem, along with case studies to activate the discussion through breakout sessions. Breakout groups will be asked to consider their recommendations for collaboration to enhance caregiver integration and support.
Presenters:
Diane Slezak, President and CEO, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Diane Slezak is President and CEO of AgeOptions and the President of Illinois Association of AAA’s. She serves as a USAging Alternate Board member. She is known for her advocacy to establish programs to serve elders including recently, obtaining state funding to support caregivers.
Diane Mariani, Program Manager, Social Work and Community Health, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
[biography]
Diane Mariani is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a specialization in Gerontology (LCSW) and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). In her current role as Program Manager for the department of Social Work and Community Health at Rush, she oversees the Rush Caring for Caregivers program funded by
FT14) Compliance That Protects: Why Small Agencies Can’t Afford to Skip It
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
In today’s regulatory environment, even small agencies face increasing expectations to operate with transparency, accountability and integrity. This training session explains why a well-structured compliance program is not just a legal safeguard, but a strategic advantage. Designed specifically for small agencies with limited resources, the session will demonstrate practical, scalable steps for implementing or strengthening a compliance program without overwhelming staff or budgets. The session will highlight how consistent policies, clear reporting channels and staff training protect the agency’s reputation while promoting ethical decision-making at every level. Attendees will leave understanding how a strong compliance foundation supports long-term stability, enhances service quality and empowers the agency to grow confidently and responsibly.
Presenter:
Mary Steele, Vice President of Compliance and Oversight, Area Agency on Aging 3, Lima, OH
[biography]
Mary Steele, SWA - VP of Compliance and Oversight for Area Agency on Aging 3 - Ohio. In addition to her role as Compliance Officer, she oversees Staff Development, Provider Oversight, Procurement and Contracting. Mary has worked at AAA3 since 2007 within both Older Americans Act and Medicaid waiver programs.
3:45 PM
4:15 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
FT15) Transit 101: An Age-Friendly Approach to Increase Confidence, Access and Independence
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Transit 101 is an innovative, highly interactive program designed by the Howard County Office on Aging and Independence in Maryland to increase older adults’ awareness and confidence when using public transportation. After community listening sessions revealed widespread misconceptions, Transit 101 was created to close knowledge gaps and reduce the hesitancy of riding the bus. The program combines brief presentations; partner resource tables; and a hands-on “Meet the Bus” experience that allows participants to meet drivers, explore different bus options and practice boarding. Attendees reported increased confidence, enjoyment and a new understanding of how free rides for individuals ages 60 and older can support their independence. Participants will learn how to translate the program's lessons into their own community context.
Presenter:
Morgan Spliedt, Livable Communities Program Manager, Age-Friendly Howard County, Columbia, MD
[biography]
Morgan is the Livable Communities Program Manager at the Howard County Office on Aging and Independence, where she leads age-friendly initiatives to enhance accessibility and livability for residents and visitors. She earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Gerontology from Bowling Green State University and University of Maryland Baltimore County, respectively.
FT16) Where, Oh Where, Did the Funding Go? Funding Your Caregiver Journey
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
This session serves as a practical guide to securing financial support for family caregiver programs through grants, benefits and community resources. We’ll explore creative strategies for accessing funding to sustain and enhance caregiver services. With limited program budgets, participants will also discover how leveraging other AAA services can benefit caregivers and improve overall service delivery.
Presenters:
Cindy Kincaid, Aging Program Manager, Centalina Regional COuncil, Charlotte, NC
Kelsey Lieungh, Aging Program Coordinator, Centralina Area Agency on Aging, Charlotte, NC
[biography]
Kelsey Lieungh works as the Aging Program Coordinator for Centralian's Family Caregiver Support Program providing information, assistance and direct support including respite and supplemental services to caregivers to reduce caregiver burden. Kelsey is the co-chair of the Dementia Friendly Charlotte Mecklenburg Initiative, which aims to improve community awareness around dementia.
FT17) From Research to Reality: Co-Designing a Low-Vision Brand for Aging Adults
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Older adults with emerging vision loss often don’t seek help—because they don’t see vision services as “for them.” Braille Institute partnered with Vital Research to understand why. Through a statewide needs assessment, we learned how identity, language and stigma prevent people from engaging. This session shares how those findings led to a new low-vision brand, redesigned offerings, intake pathways and service experience—resulting in earlier engagement, stronger caregiver involvement and measurable impact in support and services. Attendees will leave with research insights, messaging strategies and service design practices they can use to reach older adults sooner in their own communities.
Presenters:
Allison Burdett, Chief Program Officer, Braille Institute of America, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Allison Burdett is Chief Program Officer at Braille Institute. With more than 15 years of leadership in nonprofit disability services, she leads program expansion and oversees development and delivery of services that support people experiencing vision loss, advancing new approaches to outreach and access for older adults
Sandy Shin, Vice President, Marketing & Communications, Braille Institute of America, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Sandy Shin is a strategic marketing leader focused on elevating customer engagement and experience across all touchpoints. With a passion for storytelling and amplifying diverse voices, she currently serves as Vice President of Marketing & Communications for Braille Institute, driving impact for more than 15,000 people navigating vision loss.
FT18) Empowering Aging With Dignity: Transforming Dementia Care in Indiana
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
As the aging population continues to grow, the need for compassionate, person-centered care has never been greater. REAL Services, the AAA serving Northern Indiana, has been at the forefront of this movement for more than half a century—empowering older adults, caregivers and families to live with dignity, purpose and connection. This presentation will explore how REAL Services leverages community partnerships, innovative care models and global inspiration to revolutionize dementia care. We will showcase Alzheimer’s and Dementia Services of Northern Indiana (ALZNI) and the development of Milton Village, the transformative collaboration with De Hogeweyk, the pioneering dementia village in the Netherlands. Participants will understand how these initiatives create a continuum of care that uplifts and redefines what aging support looks like in American communities.
Presenter:
Angelica Baginske, Director of Alzheimer's and Dementia Services of Northern Indiana, REAL Services, Inc., South Bend, IN
[biography]
A Registered Nurse, Angel brings years 20 years experience including Director of Nursing in the long-term care industry in both Indiana and Michigan. She is a Qualified Memory Care Provider and Dementia Champion. She is the design and consulting expert behind the revolutionary new Milton Village in South Bend
FT19) Beyond the Brochure: Modern Communication Strategies That Build Partnerships and Community Support
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Many AAAs deliver exceptional services but struggle to clearly communicate their value to partners, funders and the broader community. This session shares a practical, field-tested approach to strengthening external communications and relationship development that helped our agency expand visibility, deepen trust and open new partnership and funding opportunities. Attendees will learn how to craft clear messaging, build strategic community relationships and position their agency as an essential, credible resource. We’ll walk through specific tools, communication strategies and outreach habits that proved most effective, and what we learned along the way. Participants will leave with ready-to-use templates and a repeatable framework they can apply immediately to strengthen their agency’s presence, partnerships and long-term impact.
Presenter:
Randi Keesee, Vice President of Development, Peninsula Agency on Aging, Newport News, VA
[biography]
Randi Keesee, Vice President of Development for Peninsula Agency on Aging, is an advocate for aging issues and champion for ensuring people have the best supports to age well in their communities. Randi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with an emphasis on Marketing from College of Saint Mary’s.
FT20) Collaborative Partnerships for Homesharing: Bridging Affordable Housing, Care Supports and Fairness
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
What makes homesharing appealing to homeowners and home seekers? What are the benefits and challenges of homesharing for providers, homeowners and home seekers? How can AAAs use homesharing to address older adult housing needs? This presentation will share how homeshare programs help to address rising housing instability and care needs among older adults by matching and providing ongoing support to home providers with home seekers. Homesharing programs also can provide an innovative way to build social connections among older adults from various backgrounds and across generations. This presentation will also share qualitative findings from a study and partnership among California State University, Chico; California State University, Sacramento; UC Berkeley; and several homeshare organizations throughout California (including Front Porch).
Presenters:
Jenay Cottrell, Director of Aging & Adult Services, County of Marin, Department of Health and Human Services, San Rafael, CA
[biography]
With more than 15 years of experience working in services for older adults, Jenay Cottrel is the Director of Aging & Adult Services in Marin County, California. She entered the aging network after holding management positions in the private and nonprofit sectors and being her father’s caregiver.
Luke Barnesmoore, Director of Strategy, Front Porch, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Luke serves as the Director of Strategy for Home Match. Luke is a member of the Marin County Homeless Policy Steering Committee where he represents the prevention sector and acts as co-Chair of the HPSC’s Older Adult Committee, a community representative on the Marin County Commission on Aging’s Legislative Advocacy
FT22) Los Angeles County's Center of Excellence: An Elder Abuse Forensic Center Model
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
On August 22, 2023, the Los Angeles County Adult Protective Services Elder Abuse Forensic Center, or Center of Excellence, was established as a vital resource for addressing elder abuse cases. This initiative unites professionals from various fields dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of vulnerable older adults and individuals with disabilities. During the session, we will provide an overview of the center's purpose and key functions, including specialized services such as forensic analysis, legal advocacy and therapeutic support. The center aims to enhance safety and quality of life for at-risk populations while promoting community education and prevention strategies.
Presenter:
Ralph Pascual, Human Services Administrator, Los Angeles County, Los Angeles, CA
[biography]
Ralph Pascual has dedicated 25 years to serving Los Angeles County, beginning his career as a field social worker in Adult Protective Services (APS). He currently coordinates the APS Center of Excellence, the LA County Elder Abuse Forensic Center.

In addition to his work with APS, Ralph is an adjunct faculty
FT23) Road to Stability: A Home-Based Primary Care Program That Delivers
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
The Detroit Area Agency on Aging (DAAA) launched the Senior Solution Home-Based Primary Care initiative to bring medical care into the homes of older adults living in area with limited medical resources. By deploying an interdisciplinary team, DAAA addressed barriers such as a lack of primary care, difficulty traveling to appointments and reliance on emergency services. The program made a meaningful difference by stabilizing chronic conditions, reducing hospital visits, improving quality of life and easing caregiver burden through education and ongoing support. This presentation will show how home-based primary care can close health gaps, highlight evidence from community surveys and the
Dying Before Their Time
study, and demonstrate how partnerships and social drivers of health positively impact outcomes. Attendees will learn practical strategies for delivering fair and community-centered care.
Presenters:
Katherine Turrisi, Director, Community Integrated Services, Detroit Area Agency on Aging, Detroit, MI
[biography]
Kathy Turrisi has 45 years of nursing experience, including over 42 years in hospitals in Charleston, South Carolina, and Detroit, Michigan. For the last three years, she has worked at the Detroit Area Agency on Aging, where she launched the home-based primary care program.
Charlene Windham, Nurse Practitioner, Home-Based Primary Care Program, Detroit Area Agency on Aging, Detroit, MI
[biography]
Charlene Walton Windham, a Georgia native living in Michigan, is a seasoned Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience. Dedicated to community health and lifelong learning, she holds multiple nursing degrees and mentors emerging nurses. She is an active member of the Mary Mahoney Professional Nurses organization.
FT24) Unlocking Independence With Assistive Technology
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Every state and territory has a powerful assistive technology (AT) resource, a hidden gem for people with disabilities of all ages, including those aging into disability and those who don’t yet consider themselves disabled: the AT Act Programs. If you support adults who say, “I want to stay in my home, stay connected, keep working or keep doing what I love,” this session is for you. We’ll demystify AT and show how AT Act Programs allow people to try before they buy through device demonstrations and short-term loans, and acquire devices through reuse and alternative financing. Through real stories, attendees will leave with concrete, easy ways to connect the people they serve with their state’s AT Act Program.
Following a brief primer on technology and AT Act services, including device loans, demonstrations, and funding, we will transition into a collaborative, scenario-based dialogue. Together, we’ll brainstorm solutions for real-world aging challenges using the latest in remote monitoring and smart tech. Bring your expertise as we map out how to connect people with life-changing technology.
Presenter:
Jeannie Krull, Executive Director, ATAP-Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs, Washington, DC
[biography]
Jeannie Krull, MS/CCC-SLP, ATP, CAPS, is the Executive Director of ATAP, the National Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs. Ms. Krull is an ASHA certified speech/language pathologist, a RESNA certified Assistive Technology Professional (ATP), and a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) who has worked with people all ages and disabilities since 1991.
Jeannie spent the first part of her career working for a private practice as a speech pathologist serving all ages, in all settings. From 2000 to 2025, she worked for the North Dakota Assistive Technology Act program. In addition, she is a 2019 Bush Foundation Fellow, past Chair of the Board of ATAP, and an ATIA Strand Advisor for the Aging and AT Strand. She is also an Advisory Board Member for TechSage RERC, the American Institutes for Research® for IDD Virtual Research, and US Aging’s Commit to Connect and Eldercare Locator.
FT25) Creating Social Connection and Healthy Aging Through PACE-Led Community Engagement
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Discover how Gary and Mary West PACE uses community-based engagement, supportive housing partnerships and evidence-informed wellness programming to strengthen healthy aging and social connection for low-income older adults. This session highlights proven strategies—therapeutic recreation, fall-prevention activities, caregiver outreach, behavioral health touchpoints and story-driven initiatives like Life Story Books—that have improved safety, engagement and quality of life. Attendees will learn how West PACE’s relationship-first model reduces isolation; expands access for seniors in affordable housing communities; and increases participation in wellness, nutrition and physical activity programs. Participants will leave with practical tools they can apply immediately, including rapid-cycle engagement events, cross-sector collaboration approaches, culturally responsive outreach, and ways to use social connection as a core health intervention that supports independence and aging in place.
Presenter:
Mary Jurgensen, Community Engagement and Outreach Director, Gary and Mary West PACE, San Marcos, CA
[biography]
Mary Jurgensen serves as the Director of Community Engagement and Enrollment at Gary and Mary West PACE, where she leads strategic outreach and enrollment initiatives to connect low-income seniors with comprehensive, person-centered care. With over 85 years of experience in nonprofit healthcare sales, marketing, strategic planning, and public engagement, Mary
FT26) Access Points for Aging: A Rural Innovation Making Services Easier to Reach
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
In Aroostook County—Maine’s vast, rural and aging region—the Aroostook Agency on Aging launched Access Points for Aging to address a clear challenge: older adults needed easier access to services closer to home. We built a countywide strategy by mapping service gaps, listening to residents and partnering with trusted community hubs. With federal seed funding, we equipped libraries, town offices, fire departments and community centers as welcoming, technology-enabled navigation sites staffed by trained personnel and local champions. Today, more than 20 Access Points have connected hundreds of older adults and family caregivers with education, resources and social supports. Our next phase expands digital tools, deepens partnerships and builds long-term sustainability. Participants will leave inspired—and ready to replicate this model in their own communities.
Presenters:
Chris Beaulieu, Director of Programs & Services, Aroostook Agency on Aging, Presque Isle, ME
[biography]
Chris is an accomplished leader with over 25 years of experience in program management and strategic oversight in the nonprofit and public sectors. As Director at the Aroostook Agency on Aging, Chris oversees services, ensures compliance, leads staff, and drives innovative initiatives to enhance and expand Agency programs.
Joy Barresi Saucier, Executive Director, Aroostook Agency on Aging, Presque Isle, ME
[biography]
Joy Barresi Saucier, MHA, RN, FACHE, is Executive Director of the Aroostook Agency on Aging and a Health and Aging Policy Fellow. She serves as USAging Region 1 Board Alternate and is Past President of AgeWise Maine, advancing policies and programs that support older adults in the most rural communities.
FT27) Bringing Dementia Services to Local Malls via CBO Partnerships: A Community Innovation
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Innovations in dementia community building: working with community-based organizations (CBOs) to bring services to the local shopping mall. Attend this session to learn how our AAA worked with our partner CBO to revolutionize the way our community accesses dementia support services. Amy’s Place is operated by Dementia Support NW, a partnering nonprofit agency, and provides services in collaboration with Northwest Regional Council. This community hub aims to reduce barriers to care by providing services in a local shopping mall. These include free short-term drop-in respite, support groups, art and cultural events and much more. Attend this session to learn how a AAA/CBO partnership can lead to offering dementia services in local shopping malls..
Presenters:
Bethany Chamberlin, Planner and Dementia Support Program Coordinator, Northwest Regional Council, Bellingham, WA
[biography]
Bethany Chamberlin, PhD, is the Planner and Dementia Support Program Coordinator at the
Northwest Regional Council. Her work focuses on community health and wellness, particularly supporting those living with dementia. She has worked in various roles and enjoys bringing new programs to the community through a translational research lens.
Heather Carter, Operations Manager, Dementia Support Northwest, Bellingham, WA
[biography]
Heather is Operations Manager for DSNW and joined the team to help bring the vision of Amy’s Place to life. She brings decades of experience in nonprofit work in program delivery, fundraising, budget management and administration. She’s committed to reducing stigma and expanding dementia friendly spaces in our community.
FT28) Medicare Fraud Prevention Outreach and Updates From SMP
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) empowers Medicare beneficiaries to prevent, detect and report Medicare fraud, errors and abuse through outreach, counseling and education. The SMPs’ unique position within communities allows them to quickly identify new fraud trends and issues that can then be shared with fraud investigators and the public, many times before those trends are identifiable in the billing data. This session will focus on sharing new fraud trends identified by the SMPs and updates on the innovative communication channels and outreach work the program does to get the word out.
Presenters:
Maggie Flowers, MIPPA Program Director, Office of Healthcare Information and Counseling, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Maggie Flowers is Medicare Program Director at the Administration for Community Living, leading the MIPPA program to help older adults and people with disabilities access Medicare and low-income benefits. She has extensive experience in economic security and aging services and holds degrees from Texas A&M University and UT Austin.
Rebecca Kinney, Director, Office of Healthcare Information and Counseling, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
As ACL’s OHIC Director, Rebecca manages the administration of the Medicare focused programs and activities managed by ACL including the SHIP, SMP, and MIPPA programs. In this role, she provides oversight and direction to the OHIC team, state grantees, contractors and national centers established to support the OHIC grantees.
4:30 PM
5:00 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
FT29) Community Health Workers: Opportunity and Sustainability in the Aging Network
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Many older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers struggle to find the information they need to make informed choices about long-term services and supports (LTSS) options. The Cal Community Connect program seeks to streamline access to services by employing community health workers (CHWs) as No Wrong Door navigators across social and health care systems. This public-private partnership engages AAAs with health plans to leverage Medi-Cal and Medicare to support older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers to access the services they need while developing a sustainable business model that can be replicated throughout the state. Participating AAAs will share strategies and tips about how they replicated this approach in their networks.
Presenters:
Anson Houghton, Program Administrator, Area 4 Agency on Aging, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
• Anson Houghton has over 25 years of experience working with older adults and people with disabilities. Working with the Agency on Aging Area 4 (AAA4), Anson oversees their case management team, five Aging and Disability Resource Connections and develops programming outside of the agency’s traditional Older American Act funding.
Sarah Steenhausen, Deputy Director-Policy, Research, and Equity, California Department of Aging, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
Sarah serves as Deputy Director of the Division of Policy, Research & Engagement. She collaborates with state departments & stakeholders in developing policy and research impacting older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers to advance system change and realize the goals of California’s Master Plan for Aging.
FT30) Caregivers in Crisis: Recognizing and Supporting Overwhelmed Caregivers
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Caregiver strain is both widespread and under recognized. In a recent study, 47 percent of caregivers reported increases in anxiety, depression or other mental health challenges in the past year. Yet many family members do not identify as caregivers, leaving them unaware of the services, supports and interventions available to help before a situation becomes unmanageable. A series of tragic local caregiver–care receiver murder–suicides prompted the creation of the Emergency Caregiver and Older Adult Mental Health Task Force. Convened by Peninsula Agency on Aging, the task force brings together more than 75 professionals and community members committed to addressing this urgent public health issue. Together, they are developing media and print awareness campaigns, a 24/7 easy-to-access resource hub and rapid access to counseling for family caregivers experiencing
Presenters:
Randi Keesee, Vice President of Development, Peninsula Agency on Aging, Newport News, VA
[biography]
Randi Keesee, Vice President of Development for Peninsula Agency on Aging, is an advocate for aging issues and champion for ensuring people have the best supports to age well in their communities. Randi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with an emphasis on Marketing from College of Saint Mary’s.
Toni Johnson, Director of Care Coordination, Peninsula Agency on Aging, Newport News, VA
[biography]
Toni is the Director of Care Coordination at Peninsula Agency on Aging in Newport News, VA. With over 15 years of experience in mental health and human services, she is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in solution-focused therapy. She enjoys spending time with family, cooking, and traveling.
FT31) Caregiving Haven: Transforming Access to Caregiver Resources, Tools and Guidance
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Caregiving Haven is a free, one-stop digital hub that empowers family and informal caregivers with practical tools and meaningful support. This session reviews how The Senior Alliance used one-time funding to build a robust, long-lasting platform filled with caregiver resources and tools. We will highlight how a customizable care binder, caregiver guides, self-assessments and video trainings help caregivers stay organized, reduce stress and connect with the right services at the right time. We’ll also share data on Caregiving Haven engagement. Attendees will leave with templates, engagement strategies and a replicable framework for creating or enhancing a caregiver resource portal in their own organizations or communities.
Presenter:
Amanda Sears, Chief Community Impact Officer, The Senior Alliance, Dearborn, MI
[biography]
Amanda Sears is Director of Planning and Projects at The Senior Alliance. With over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Amanda has a passion for leading initiatives, building community coalitions, and developing programs that expand access to high quality services for older adults and caregivers.
FT32) Building Stronger Support Systems Together: Family Caregiver Specialists and Benefits Counselors Assemble
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
As chronic diseases progress, caregivers face growing challenges that require coordinated support. Our program meets these needs through collaboration between family caregiver specialists and benefits counselors. Caregiver specialists serve as the first point of contact, offering emotional, practical and resource guidance. To ensure families receive comprehensive assistance, we connect them with benefits counselors for expert help with Medicare and other benefits. This partnership goes beyond referrals—our teams jointly train and certify in advance directives, empowering families to make informed decisions about future care. By integrating education, planning and advocacy, we strengthen service delivery, reduce caregiver stress and improve quality of life for families in our service area. Our goal: to equip caregivers with the tools, knowledge and confidence to navigate care successfully.
Presenters:
Christina Edwardson, Family Caregiver Specialist, Area Agency on Aging of the Coastal Bend, Corpus Christi, TX
[biography]
A passionate caregiver advocate with 13+ years of experience in education, support services, and community outreach. Known for expertise and genuine compassion, Christina is a Texas A&M–Corpus Christi graduate, wife, and proud mom of three boys—committed to empowering families through knowledge and care.
Shanice Moya, Lead Benefits Counselor, Area Agency on Aging of the Coastal Bend, Corpus Christi, TX
[biography]
Lead Benefits Counselor at CBAAA, Shanice oversees the Consumer Care team and supports staff in achieving goals. With six years of experience across multiple roles, she is passionate about helping individuals and caregivers understand Medicare, Social Security, state benefits, and future planning.
FT33) Beyond Borders: How a AAA Delivers Innovative Veteran-Directed Care Across States
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Learn how a AAA spoke model transforms Veteran-Directed Care by expanding reach, reducing administrative barriers and strengthening collaboration to ensure high-quality, person-centered services for veterans throughout multiple states.
Presenter:
Stephanie Parker, Director Of Veteran Services, Peninsula Agency on Aging, Newport News, VA
[biography]
Stephanie started with PAA 4 years ago as an Options Counselor in the VDC program. Since then she has earned several promotions the latest being Vice President of Veteran Services.
FT34) Make Your AAA the BEST Place to Work!
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
What does it take to make your AAA the best place to work? Is it possible to foster an engaged and motivated workplace without an on-site gym, expensive gifts or frequent off-site bonding events—even in a hybrid work environment? Discover valuable ideas and tips from a AAA that won a regional contest for being the best mid-sized employer!
Presenter:
Lynn Kimball, Executive Director, Aging and Long-Term Care of Eastern Washington, Spokane, WA
[biography]
Lynn Kimball is the Executive Director of Aging and Long-Term Care of Eastern Washington (ALTCEW), which serves five counties in Northeastern Washington. Lynn currently serves as the first Vice President on the USAging Board, representing Region X, and as the legislative chair for W4A in Washington State.
FT35) Beyond Books: Libraries as Powerful Partners in Supporting Older Adults
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Libraries are more than just books! They can connect older adults experiencing social isolation, teach technology skills, host support groups, provide a community space for presentations and outreach and much more. This session, presented by a former librarian, explores practical, innovative ways AAAs can partner with libraries to promote healthy aging, support the needs of caregivers and connect local networks of aging service providers to new audiences. Whether your agency is just beginning to explore partnerships with public libraries or looking for new ways to collaborate, this session will provide inspiration for leveraging library spaces and technology and generating joint programming ideas.
Presenters:
Donna Feddern, Chief of Programs and Services, Lewis-Mason-Thurston Area Agency on Aging, Olympia, WA
[biography]
Donna Feddern is the Chief of Programs and Services at the Lewis Mason Thurston Area Agency on Aging in Washington where she oversees the Medicaid Case Management, Family Caregiver Support, ADRC, and Health Home programs. She is also a former librarian with over 20 years experience working in public libraries.
Valerie Aubertin, Community Supports Director, Lewis-Mason-Thurston Area Agency on Aging, Olympia, WA
[biography]
Valerie Aubertin is the Community Supports Director at Lewis Mason Thurston Area Agency on Aging in Olympia, Washington. She has many years of experience working in the aging industry, including case management, contracts, and department leadership.
FT37) From Barriers to Breakthroughs: Advancing Healthy Living for Rural Older Adults
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
In remote communities like Campo in San Diego County, older adults want to eat well and stay active, but they face many barriers, including few local stores with reliable produce, long travel distances, limited transit and unsafe walking conditions. These challenges also make it difficult for providers to offer consistent programs when turnout is low. This session will demonstrate how trust building, partnerships and resident involvement can turn these obstacles into opportunities. A simple nutrition class sparked deeper engagement, leading to a garden club, the development of a community garden and creative solutions such as live streaming a County-led exercise class at a central site. Attendees will leave with practical, low-cost strategies to engage rural older adults and build sustainable programs grounded in community voice and real-life challenges.
Presenters:
Lina Nasr, Older Adult Nutrition and Community Improvement Specialist, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Lina holds a Public Health Master’s degree and has worked in the field of health behavior and education for over 20 years. She has been with the County of San Diego since 2013, and currently provides Community Engagement sessions that empower low-income participants to make sustainable improvements in their community.
Roberto Ramirez, Health Promotion Manager, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Roberto currently serves as the Health Promotion Manager at the County of San Diego, Aging & Independence Services (AIS). At AIS, Roberto oversees the planning and implementation of various health and wellness programs and initiatives which aim to help older adults live healthy, safe, and thriving lives.
FT38) Adapting the 4Ms Framework for American Indian and Alaska Native Elders
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
This session presents an adaptation of the 4Ms—a framework to guide care of older adults whenever they come into contact with your health system’s care and services—that is more relatable and relevant to American Indian and Alaska Native communities. The intention is to incorporate the 4Ms into existing care to organize the efficient delivery of effective care. The International Association for Indigenous Aging and the Yale Medical School Connecticut Older Adult Collaboration for Health Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program team adapted the language and visual imagery of the 4Ms, resulting in a tool that reflects the individual 4M components and incorporates cultural elements. This adaptation is designed to improve communication between Tribal elders and medical care teams, building trust in care.
Presenters:
Bill Benson, President, International Association for Indigenous Aging, Silver Spring, MD
[biography]
Bill Benson is President of the IA2 and has worked in aging and health for over four decades. Bill has held senior leadership positions from the state to federal level and is a national advocate on elder justice and brain health.
Megan Dicken, Public Health and Aging Associate, International Association for Indigenous Aging, Atlanta, GA
[biography]
Megan Dicken is the Public Health and Aging Associate at the International Association for Indigenous Aging and an enrolled member of the United Houma Nation of Louisiana. Having cared for grandparents living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, Megan has personal insights into the prevention and treatment of ADRD.
FT39) Using the Village Model to Reach Older Adults in Communities With Limited Resources
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Baltimore County’s AAA leveraged the Village model to expand services to communities with limited resources, including immigrant, hard-to-reach and low-income older adults. This session will detail how the county used targeted grants, community partnerships, culturally responsive outreach and flexible program design to support the launch and growth of community-led Villages. Participants will learn how the AAA identified gaps in traditional service delivery, built trust with grassroots organizations and created a scalable framework that local AAAs can replicate. The presentation will highlight outcomes, lessons learned and practical tools for engaging unique communities, implementing Village partnerships and aligning the model with barrier-free and age-friendly goals. Attendees will leave with clear strategies to adapt the Village approach in their counties to strengthen access, connection and support for older adults.
Presenter:
Eram Abbasi, Chief of Community Services, Baltimore County Department of Aging, Towson, MD
[biography]
Eram Abbasi serves as Chief of Community Services at the Baltimore County Department of Aging, supporting Age-Friendly initiatives, the Villages of Baltimore County, dementia-friendly efforts, caregivers support, and volunteer programs. She focuses on building equitable, community-driven models that expand access to services for underserved older adults countywide.
FT41) Statewide Advocacy: Don’t Blow Out the Candles on the Older Americans Act
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
This interactive session explores how strategic communication and advocacy can work together to influence policymakers and strengthen support for aging services by increasing visibility of Older Americans Act (OAA) programs. Presenters from two different AAAs will share how Illinois’ AAAs coordinated a statewide OAA Day of Advocacy using targeted messaging, unified calls to action and coordinated legislative outreach. Participants will learn how to create a cohesive marketing campaign; practice techniques for crafting clear, compelling communication messages; and build relationships with lawmakers, including bringing legislators to funded partner sites to show how OAA dollars translate into real impact. Attendees will leave with practical tools to elevate their organization’s advocacy efforts and inspire legislative champions for older adults.
Presenters:
Delaney Patrick, Advocacy and Planning Specialist, AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois, Lombard, IL
Emma Kidder, Manager - Advocacy and Public Policy, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Emma Kidder, LCSW, MPH is a Manager of Advocacy and Public Policy. She holds a Master of Public Health and a Master in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Emma is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
Monday, July 20
7:00 AM
5:30 PM
Registration and Information Desk Open
8:00 AM
8:30 AM
Morning Refreshments, Discovery Showcase and Poster Sessions
8:30 AM
10:00 AM
General Sessions
GS03) Food Is Medicine: The Aging Network, Nutrition and Health
Since the advent of the Older Americans Act (OAA), AAAs and Title VI programs have been at the forefront of nutrition for older adults. The meals, groceries, nutrition counseling and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program application assistance that AAAs, Title VI programs and other OAA providers have funded and provided for decades are cornerstones of healthy aging. With the health care world recognizing the importance of meals and nutrition as part of whole-person health, new opportunities are opening up for the Aging Network to provide medically tailored meals, access to nutrition and more. Come to this session to learn about the Food Is Medicine movement, how it is changing our view of health and how all AAAs can get involved.
Presenters:
Cathryn Couch, Founder and CEO, Ceres Community Project, Santa Rosa, CA
[biography]
Cathryn Couch is founder and CEO of Ceres Community Project, a 100% organic food is medicine organization providing 245,000 medically tailored meals annually. Ceres’ model includes a Youth Development Program serving hundreds of teens. Ceres has scaled their integrated community health model to more than a dozen communities across the US, Denmark and New Zealand.
Rani Snyder, President, The John A. Hartford Foundation, New York, NY
[biography]
Rani E. Snyder, MPA, is President of The John A. Hartford Foundation, a national philanthropy dedicated to improving care for older adults by creating health systems that are age-friendly, supporting family caregivers, and improving serious illness and end-of-life care.
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Director of Aging Services, Allegheny County Department of Human Services Area Agency on Aging, Pittsburgh, PA
[biography]
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Ph.D., is Director of the Allegheny County DHS Area Agency on Aging. Since 2022, she has transformed services, reaching over 39,000 people annually. With extensive research and nonprofit leadership experience, she advances community-driven advocacy, earning recognition from USAging, The John A. Hartford Foundation, and Pittsburgh Business Times.
10:00 AM
11:45 AM
Discovery Showcases Open
10:00 AM
10:45 AM
Poster Session
Alzheimer’s Disease and Non-Alzheimer’s Dementia Prevalence and Forecasting in San Diego County
Presenter:
Darian Grisso, County of San Diego
Beyond Older Americans Act Dollars: New Data on How AAAs Fund Core Services
Presenter:
Traci Wilson, USAging
Bringing Dementia Resources to Rural and Tribal Communities in Washington State
Presenter:
Bri Buchanan, Olympic Area Agency on Aging
Building a Medical Chaperone Program
Presenter:
Julie Buck, Passages
Building Family Caregiver Resilience: A Community-Based Approach to Navigating Ambiguous Loss
Presenter:
Angela Bender, Duet: Partners In Health & Aging
Caregiver Supports in New MexiCare Program Reduces Nursing Facility and ER Visits
Presenter:
Angelina Flores-Montoya, New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department
Characteristics of Dementia-Capable Organizations in the United States’ Aging Network
Presenter:
Heather Menne, Miami University
Choice, Control and Care: Transforming Veterans Services
Presenter:
Robbie Boyd, Local Office on Aging
Creating and Advancing Caregiving Research and Evidence (CARE) Network Caregiving Research Agenda
Presenter:
Kim Whitmore, Marquette University
Demystifying Long-Term Care
Presenter:
Kyle Sanchez, Lewis-Mason-Thurston Area Agency on Aging
Empowering Korean-American Seniors and Caregivers Through Culturally Tailored “Well-Aging” Education
Presenter:
Lynne Conger, Somang Society
Family Caregivers Are in Everybody's Business: How AAA Joined the Group Chat
Presenter:
Donna Benton, USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
Family Support for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Presenter:
Abigail Schindler, Institute on Disability and Human Development
Feeling Fit Club: An Evidence-Based Program for Improving Fitness and Cultivating Connection
Presenter:
Skyler Moore, County of San Diego, Aging & Independence Service
Food, Health and Connection: A Multifaceted Intervention for Rural Oklahoma Seniors
Presenter:
Emily Heath, Community Market of Pottawatomie County
From Ideas to Impact: How Agencies Build a Culture of Innovation
Presenter:
Jonathan Haag, CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions
From Risk to Resilience: Embedding Fall Prevention in Case Management
Presenter: Skyler Moore, County of San Diego, Aging & Independence Services
Guidelines and Strategies to Implement an Accessible Garden for People With Dementia
Presenter:
Melody Halzel, Center on Aging, University of Hawai'i at Manoa
Healing at Home: AdventHealth and Senior Resource Alliance Hospital Readmission Prevention Program
Presenter:
Connor Jones, The Area Agency on Aging of Central Florida dbc Senior Resource Alliance
Improving Access to Health Care—A 60-Day Chaperone Transportation Model
Presenter:
Sathya Rajan, Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital
Insight to Impact: Unifying AAA Branding and Messaging
Presenter:
Pamela Elfenbein, University of North Georga
Integrating a Blue Zone Environment: How to Increase Age Expectancy in Communities
Presenter:
April Friant, Salem County Office on Aging
JAWS: Building Intergenerational Long-Term Care through Community Partnerships
Presenter:
Jody Barker, Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging
Key Insights From the National Survey of Older Americans Act Participants
Presenter:
Mary Kate Brown, U.S. Administration for Community Living
Miles That Matter: Volunteer Drivers Delivering Care, Companionship and Important Medical Access
Presenter:
Laura Allen, Elderbridge Agency on Aging
Modernizing Health and Social Care Partnerships Through Community Care Hub Data Exchange
Presenter:
Rachelle Scott Oakley, Iowa Community HUB
Needs Assessment Findings: Delivering Integrated Nutrition, Engagement and Resilience
Presenter:
Catherine MacDonald, VCU Gerontology and the Virginia Center on Aging
Policy in Practice: Implementing a Values-Based Food Purchasing Framework in San Diego
Presenter:
Skyler Moore, County of San Diego, Aging & Independence Services
Stronger Together: Building Social Connection to Boost Senior Disaster Resilience
Presenter:
Sarah Rosenbaum, Seniors in Service of Tampa Bay, Inc.
Super Seniors: Bridging Generations Through Athletics
Presenter:
Tyronda Whitaker, Upper Coastal Plain Council of Governments
Take Action—Collaboration Is Key to Age-Friendly Initiatives
Presenter:
Sara McDonald, Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging
The Basics of Social Security and Making the Most of Your Benefit
Presenter:
Lara Hinz, Women's Institute for a Secure Retirement (WISER)
The Dementia Friendly America Movement—An Opportunity for EVERYONE to Engage
Presenter:
Jennifer Hammer, USAging
The Path Forward: AAA-Health Care Contracting Trends
Presenter:
Marisa Scala-Foley, USAging
Training Dementia “Gatekeepers” to Recognize and Refer Within the Korean-American Community
Presenter:
Lynne Conger, Somang Society
Utilizing Automation to Increase Care Communication During Key Consumer Events
Presenter:
Clare Cruz, Allegheny County Department of Human Services
Village Movement, 25 Years of Community Strength
Presenter:
Barbara Sullivan, Village to Village Network
Wits Workout Improves Social Engagement and Creates Community
Presenter:
Laura Payne, UIUC
WRAAA Nails It! A Home Modification, Fall-Prevention Initiative
Presenter:
Georgina Blake, Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging
10:30 AM
12:30 PM
Mobile Workshops
MW01) Tour a Nationally Recognized Senior Wellness Center, Explore Replicating Our Transformative Model
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Pre-registration required.
Serving Seniors is a San Diego–based nonprofit helping older adults experiencing poverty live healthy, fulfilling lives. Founded in 1970, the organization supports low-income and unhoused seniors through a comprehensive model that includes nutritious meals, affordable housing, health and social services and enrichment activities. The flagship Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center provides daily meals and integrated resources—health clinicians, case managers, housing assistance, activities, lifelong learning, technology access and more than 25 onsite service partners that includes a dental center. Last year, Serving Seniors provided more than 1.5 million meals and coordinated services for 13,265 older adults. During this workshop, you will tour the facilities, see activities happening in real time and gain insights on how to replicate this in your community.
Presenter:
Melinda Forstey, President/CEO, Serving Seniors, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Melinda Forstey, President & CEO of Serving Seniors, leads one of San Diego’s foremost nonprofits for older adults, guiding its person-centered model of meals, housing, supportive services, and efforts addressing senior homelessness. She also holds regional and statewide leadership roles and contributes to aging policy nationally.
10:45 AM
11:45 AM
Roundtables
RT04) Preparing for and Responding to Local Disasters: Peer Learning Roundtable
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Many communities are experiencing more frequent or severe local emergencies and changing disaster patterns, which can have a disproportionate impact on older adults. Sixty-five percent of AAAs report that a community within their service areas has experienced a significant emergency or disaster within the past five years (2025 AAA National Survey). This roundtable discussion provides an opportunity to learn from one another's experiences of emergency planning and response. We'll discuss practical approaches to disaster planning, response coordination, service continuity and supporting older adults during emergencies. Come ready to share with and learn from colleagues across the Aging Network about what works, what doesn't and how we can strengthen our collective capacity to serve older adults in times of crisis.
Presenter:
Deborah Stone-Walls, Chief, Programs and Services, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
This is the place for the bio.
10:45 AM
11:45 AM
Workshops
W68) Achieving Innovative and Scalable Models in Family Caregiving
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Nine states are currently breaking new ground to innovate and create replicable models that bolster their Family Caregiver Support Programs while building new alignment among their state agencies to make family caregiving a priority. With U.S. Administration for Community Living funding, these nine states are serving as incubators for approaches grounded in the National Strategy to Support Family Caregiving. Learn about unique state efforts to increase awareness; advance partnerships; strengthen services and supports; ensure financial and workplace security; and expand data, research and evidence-based practices to support family caregivers. Gather tools, strategies and templates for your state’s efforts.
Presenters:
Bernice Hutchinson, Aging Services Program Specialist, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
PCI, Required Session
Nikaela Fredrick, Aging Services Program Specialist, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Nikaela Frederick, MPH, is an Aging Services Program Specialist at ACL, overseeing grants and contracts under Title III-E of the Older Americans Act. She has over a decade of experience across the Aging Network at the local, regional, and state levels, including roles in wellness programming, information and referral, and
W69) Age Wise Program: A Modeled Approach in Behavioral Health
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
This session highlights the successful replication of San Bernardino County’s Age Wise Program, a nontraditional behavioral health model serving high-risk, older adults living in communities with limited resources. Through a No Wrong Door approach, Age Wise ensures seamless access to services, regardless of entry point. Presenters will share insights from technical assistance efforts, including training, consultation and implementation support. Attendees will learn how to adapt the model to meet local needs, with data-driven outcomes demonstrating improved housing stability, access to care and client well-being. This session offers practical strategies for organizations seeking to enhance behavioral health services for aging populations.
Presenters:
Karen Wilson, Mental Health Program Manager II, County of San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
Dr. Karen Sadewater Wilson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Mental Health Program Manager II for San Bernardino County’s Age Wise Program. A graduate of the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, she brings a passion for community service and enjoys travel, concerts, new restaurants, and football.
Denisse Guieb Ruiz, Program Specialist I, San Bernardino County - Age Wise, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
Denisse Guieb Ruiz is a Program Specialist I with the County of San Bernardino Department of Aging and Adult Services – Public Guardian, Age Wise Program. She received a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Location Analytics from Redlands University. She has over 15 years of experience in public service.
April Johnson, Mental Health Clinic Supervisor, San Bernardino County - Age Wise, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
r. April Johnson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Doctor of Social Work, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), and Air Force veteran who provides a holistic, evidence-based approach to mental health, addressing biopsychosocial and spiritual dimensions. She is the current Mental Health Clinic Supervisor for Age Wise. Dr. Johnson is dedicated to guiding individuals through life’s challenges, fostering healing, wellness, and resilience for improved daily functioning.
W71) Building Connections, Creating Community!
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
For 17 years, several AAAs in Missouri and SAGE have worked together to create welcoming, affirming services for older adults—efforts that led to the development of the SAGE National Resource Center-–Friendly Aging Network Toolkit. Funded by the U.S Administration for Community Living and piloted across six states, this toolkit provides a practical, adaptable roadmap for building accessible networks that combat isolation and strengthen community connections. This session is more critical than ever: a recent SAGE survey revealed that 50 percent of respondents reported feeling isolated, left out or lacking companionship. Join us to explore the toolkit and gain actionable strategies for creating local networks that foster belonging and deliver affirming, community-tailored services.
Presenters:
Christine Hustedde, COO, Aging Ahead, Manchester, MO
[biography]
Christine joined Aging Ahead in 2018 as the Chief Operating Officer. Christine has an MSW, is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and has served in nonprofit management for 20+ years. In her spare time, Christine volunteers with a local feline rescue and tries to remember the rules of pickleball.
Anneliese Stoever, Director, St. Louis Area Agency on Aging, St Louis, MO
[biography]
Anneliese Stoever, MSW is the Director of the St Louis Area Agency on Aging and supervises staff, develops programs, writes grants, monitors services, and leads several community project initiatives. Ms. Stoever has a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Kansas and a Masters in Social Work.
Sherrill Wayland, Senior Director of Special Initiatives, SAGE, St Louis, MO
[biography]
Sherrill Wayland is the Senior Director of Special Initiatives and Partnerships at SAGE, leading the National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging.
W72) The Impact Equation: KPIs + Motivation = Transformation
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
Discover how implementing a comprehensive Key Performance Indicator (KPI) system can revolutionize service quality and staff engagement in AAAs. This interactive session highlights a proven framework linking client satisfaction metrics to performance-based compensation, creating measurable improvements in service delivery. Learn how one AAA transformed organizational culture by establishing transparent KPIs tied to client satisfaction surveys and other KPIs, resulting in enhanced accountability and team member motivation. Participants will explore practical strategies for selecting meaningful metrics, implementing client feedback systems, designing fair performance incentive programs and overcoming resistance to change. Leave with actionable tools to measure what matters, celebrate excellence and create a data-driven culture that elevates both staff performance and client outcomes while maintaining ethical standards and team cohesion.
Presenters:
Becky Newman, Chief Financial Officer, Direction Home Akron Canton AAA & Disabilities, Uniontown, Ohio, OH
[biography]
Becky Newman, CFO at Direction Home Akron Canton since 2016, brings over a decade of health care advisory experience. She oversees fiscal strategy, IT, and security. Becky earned an MBA in Health Care Administration from the University of Akron and a BS in Business Finance.
Christopher Fagerstrom, Senior Vice President, Home & Community Based Services, Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities, Uniontown, OH
[biography]
Chris Fagerstrom has been with Direction Home Akron Canton for the past 24+ years. Chris is a Licensed Social Worker with a Master's degree in Organizational Leadership. Chris works diligently to maximize the health outcomes of members served, while keeping program costs low and client satisfaction high.
Heesoo Kim, PHD, Managing Director, Hana Research Group, Norristown, PA
[biography]
Heesoo Kim, head of Hana Research Group, brings 20+ years of expertise in healthcare data, informatics, and research, with leadership roles across government, health insurance, and pharma. An Ohio State University graduate, he specialized in public policy, economics, and resource management.
W73) Braiding Funds and Building Capacity: Funding Transportation for Older Adults
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Title III B and Title VI funds under the Older Americans Act are vital, but they’re not the only sources available to sustain transportation for older adults and people with disabilities. This session explores how communities can leverage the
Federal Funds Braiding Guide
and other key tools to identify, combine and coordinate multiple funding streams to support accessible transportation. Presenters will share practical strategies for aligning resources across federal, state and local programs, along with examples of successful fund-braiding initiatives. Participants will gain actionable insights to strengthen financial sustainability and build capacity to meet varied mobility needs.
Presenters:
David Somers, Senior Research Associate, Transportation and Mobility, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Staff
Jennifer Hallum, CEO, Area Agency on Aging of Western Arkansas, Fort Smith, AR
[biography]
Jennifer Hallum is experienced in rural mobility and community transportation with a decade of leadership as CEO of the Area Agency on Aging of Western Arkansas She has a BBA in accounting and more than 20 years of private?sector experience that includes compliance, data analytics, training and leadership.
Bill Wagner, Director, Coordinating Council on Access and Mobility Technical Assistance Center, Coordinating Council on Access and Mobility Technical Assistance Center, Washington, DC
[biography]
Bill Wagner is the Director of the Coordinating Council on Access and Mobility Technical Assistance Center at the Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA). He has over 25 years of experience in transportation, human services and healthcare.
W74) Healing at Home: AdventHealth and Senior Resource Alliance Hospital Readmission Prevention Program
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
AdventHealth and Senior Resource Alliance (the Area Agency on Aging in Central Florida) have launched The Hospital Readmission Prevention Program, an evidence-based initiative designed to reduce avoidable hospital readmissions among older adults. Focused on patients ages 65+ who were recently discharged with heart failure, the program provides personalized follow-up care, in-home and virtual visits, and seamless connection to community resources. Community health workers play a pivotal role in care coordination; helping patients understand discharge instructions; manage chronic conditions; and access support for housing, food and transportation. Early outcomes show improved continuity of care and stronger patient empowerment. Attendees will learn how this innovative model prevents 30-day readmissions, fosters collaboration across health and aging networks, and offers practical strategies to replicate in their own communities.
Presenters:
Karla Radka, CEO, Senior Resource Alliance, Orlando, FL
[biography]
Karla Radka, CEO of Senior Resource Alliance, has over 25 years of experience in social impact and organizational growth. She has held senior roles at nonprofits like Goodwill Industries, co-founded Hope Now International, and received numerous accolades.
Kelli Burba, Executive Director of Nursing Care Transitions, AdventHealth, Orlando, FL
[biography]
Healthcare leader with 35+ years of experience in nursing and care management. Executive Director of Nursing Care Transitions, published author, and national speaker. Passionate about improving patient transitions, age-friendly initiatives, and community health. Active board member and advocate for seniors, substance use recovery, and housing solutions.
W75) Interdependent Outreach: Storytelling as Strategy for Effective Community Engagement
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
With restricted budgets and limited staff, organizations can feel overwhelmed in providing relevant programming to meet the needs in their community. This session will explore how professionals representing different organizations have centered storytelling via film and The Mama Joe Project as an effective tool to: 1) raise awareness around Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias; 2) leverage information and resources in support of caregivers, including social networking and self-care; and 3) bring together churches, researchers, nonprofits and health care organizations for community engagement. Attendees will learn basics of how The Mama Joe Project was successfully implemented in each location and hear examples of how organizations with different interests can partner in ways that are creative, budget efficient and impactful to the communities they serve.
Presenters:
Meegie Jordan, Associate State Director for Community Outreach, AARP Mississippi, Brandon, MS
[biography]
Associate State Director for Community Outreach at AARP Mississippi, Meegie Jordan is dedicated to identifying community needs and implementing programs, policies, and projects that enhance the lives of older Americans and people of all ages. Her work focuses on strengthening relationships with key stakeholders that foster engagement for all Mississippians.
Herb Caldwell, Project Lead/Coordinator of Outreach, The Mama Joe Project, Caseyville, IL
[biography]
Herb Caldwell is an educator and creative based near St. Louis, MO. He is also lead for The Mama Joe Project, an initiative that centers storytelling via film with evidence-based guidance to support caregivers, promote healthy aging, and improve outcomes for families navigating Alzheimer’s and related dementia.
Sherry Wu, City of Seattle Aging & Disability Services, Area Agency on Aging for Seattle/King County, Seattle, WA
[biography]
Sherry Wu is a Senior Planner with the City of Seattle Aging and Disability Services, the Area Agency on Aging for Seattle/King County. She leads community-centered, equity-focused investment processes, program planning, and evaluation for the Family Caregiver Support Program, dementia and brain health initiatives, and coordinated efforts to address homelessness.
W76) Chance for Life: Re-integrating Older Returning Citizens to AAA Communities
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
This interactive session will introduce prospective attendees to an effective and innovative case coordination model that has been proven successful in engaging incarcerated and returning citizens ages 60+ in being integrated into their families and/or communities after years away from home. Attendees will learn how AAAs and other organizations can embrace older returning citizens to assist them to re-build their lives through prison and out-of-prison interactions, thoughtful assessments, individualized service planning and connection to evidence-based behavioral health training. Additionally, approaches used to link participants to benefits and entitlements, job placement, housing, transportation, family mediation, legal assistance, health care and other services will be shared through poignant stories and real-life cases.
Presenters:
Ronald Taylor, President and CEO, Detroit Area Agency on Aging, Detroit, MI
[biography]
Ronald Taylor, President & CEO of Detroit Area Agency on Aging, leads efforts to serve 45,000 seniors annually, championing innovation, equity, and care for aging adults. His 30-year career spans all levels, earning him awards and board positions dedicated to improving the lives of seniors and reducing disparities.
Thomas Adams, President, Chance for Life, Detroit, MI
[biography]
Thomas J. Adams, a Detroit native and Tuskegee graduate, is President of both TJA Staffing and the Chance for Life program. With decades of executive and community leadership, he has advanced major civic and nonprofit initiatives, earning recognition for impactful service and lasting contributions throughout Detroit.
W77) Skipping Meals, Stacking Risks: Food Insecurity, Chronic Conditions and Quality of Life
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
In 2022, 7 million older adults in America were food insecure, and older adults are more likely to be food insecure if they have a disability or chronic health condition. Food insecurity can exacerbate existing chronic health conditions, lead to the development of new health issues and negatively affect mental health. Using data from National Core Indicators—Aging and Disabilities® (NCI-AD) Adult Consumer Survey, we will explore the relationship between those who report that they have to skip meals due to financial concerns and the effect that has on quality-of-life outcomes, such as access to their community and other unmet needs. We will also share examples of efforts to address barriers to food security and increase benefits access and enrollment.
Presenters:
Rosa Plasencia, Director National Core Indicators-Aging and Disabilities, ADvancing States, Arlington, VA
[biography]
Rosa Plasencia is the Director of NCI-AD at ADvancing States and also participates in work related to long term services and supports policy, equity initiatives, and No Wrong Door/ADRC. Prior to this role she worked in state government, as a Title III-B legal services provider, and with healthcare focused nonprofits.
Stephanie Giordano, Co-Director, National Core Indicators, Human Services Research Institute, Cambridge, MA
[biography]
Stephanie co-directs the National Core Indicators project. Her work is driven by a passion for bettering the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families. Stephanie’s areas of expertise lie in survey implementation methodology and techniques (including population-specific techniques), surveyor training, quality assurance, stakeholder engagement, and user-friendly dissemination.
W78) From Grandparents Raising Grandchildren to Supporting All Kinship Families—A Tailored Approach
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Since 2012, the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (GRG) Initiative in San Diego County has evolved into a central hub of resources to support kinship caregivers, addressing the unique challenges faced by relatives raising children. Our presentation will explore the evolution of the GRG initiative, highlighting countywide services, community partnerships, cross-systems partnerships and best practices that support kinship families. Participants will learn about comprehensive services, such as educational symposiums and engaging family activities that foster connection, to strengthen community well-being through partner collaboration. Attendees will leave with insights into developing impactful kinship support initiatives informed by caregiver feedback, emphasizing culturally relevant resources, such as bilingual newsletters and tailored outreach strategies. Discover how this model fosters trust, promotes family well-being and strengthens the network of kinship caregivers.
Presenters:
Katherine Gordon, Health Planning and Program Manager, County of San Diego, Health and Human Services Agency, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Katherine Gordon, MPA, is a Health Planning and Program Specialist with expertise in public administration, health education, and gerontology. She advances equitable community initiatives and strengthens support for older adults through cross-sector systems collaboration, applying an intergenerational programming lens to promote inclusive, connected, and resilient communities.
Leslie Escobedo, Community Health Promotion Specialist, County of San Diego, Health and Human Services Agency, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Leslie Escobedo is a first-generation professional with an MPH committed to empowering community health. As a proud Latina, she advances outreach, program coordination, and health education, supporting Spanish-speaking and underrepresented communities in an effort to expand equitable access to resources that promote community well-being and long-term resilience.
Mariah Williams, Program Coordinator, County of San Diego, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Mariah Williams is the Program Coordinator for Kinship Care & Community Engagement Support with the County of San Diego, Child & Family Well-Being Department. She helps to create a kin-first culture within the agency, and she is ultimately committed to advancing justice, equity, and community healing.
11:30 AM
1:00 PM
Community Care Corps and Innovations in Caregiving Services and Supports Networking Lunch (by invitation only)
11:45 AM
1:15 PM
Lunch on Your Own
1:00 PM
3:00 PM
Mobile Workshops
MW02) Innovative Approaches to Affirming Aging Services for San Diego’s LGBTQ+ Older Adults
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Pre-registration required.
Join us in this mobile workshop with The San Diego LGBT Community Center and see how this center supports LGBTQ+ and HIV+ older adults through affirming, community-based services. Participants will learn about Senior Services’ health and wellness programming, case management and partnerships with the AAA (Aging & Independence Services) that address the unique barriers faced by this population. The session will provide an overview of how Title III D and II IC programs, such as Feeling Fit Club and congregate meals, contribute to fall prevention, mobility, nutrition and overall health, while also emphasizing the importance of connection and affirmation. Attendees will gain insight into how culturally responsive services, collaboration, program design and community engagement strengthen health outcomes and create meaningful connections.
1:15 PM
2:15 PM
Workshops
W81) Beyond Community Outreach: Adaptable Strategies for Engaging Providers, Partners and Hard-to-Reach Communities
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
How can AAAs strengthen their outreach ecosystem to better reach a wide range of communities, deepen connections and increase universal awareness of services that support aging well? This session shares practical strategies focused on fairness from Aging and Disability Services’ multi-approach outreach framework, including partnering with trusted community messengers, expanding language access, delivering health promotion workshops, promoting social connection, aligning internal systems and attaining the true resources needed for universal outreach and engagement. Presenters will highlight operational changes, key collaborations, capacity-building efforts, outcomes and lessons learned about engaging culturally and linguistically varied communities more effectively. Participants will engage in peer learning and leave with tools, budgeting considerations and partnership models they can adapt to enhance their own outreach and engagement of older adults and caregivers from different communities.
Presenters:
Jessica Gardner, Budget Policy Advisor, Aging and Disability Services, Seattle, WA
[biography]
Jessica Gardner, MSF, is the Budget Policy Advisor at the Aging and Disability Services of Seattle/King County. She oversees multiple lines of federal, state, and city revenue including Medicaid, Older Americans Act, King County levy funds and donations; and ensures that allocated funds comply with state and federal fiscal policies.
Phung Nguyen, ADS Planner, Aging and Disability Services, Seattle, WA
[biography]
Phung Nguyen, MPA, is the Planner at Aging and Disability Services for Seattle-King County where she supports language access and community engagement of diverse older adults and their caregivers for seven years. She has dedicated her career to meeting the unique needs of underrepresented communities for equitable services across systems.
Hla Waing, ADS Senior Planner, Aging and Disability Services, Seattle, WA
[biography]
Hla Yin Yin Waing, MPA, is a Senior Planner with Aging and Disability Services, where she coordinates Tribal 7.01 planning, manages the senior centers investment process, and co-leads the Outreach & Engagement Pod. She brings 20+ years of experience in community engagement, equity-centered leadership, and collaborative systems-building across Seattle/King County.
W82) Building Impactful, Collaborative Caregiver Events: Engage Communities for Lasting Results
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Discover how to design and deliver a successful family caregiver event that truly makes a difference in your community. This session will explore strategies for creating highly engaging experiences that resonate with caregivers, drive measurable results and foster meaningful impact. Learn how to build collaborative partnerships across health care, nonprofit, business and faith sectors to ensure accessibility and sustainability. We’ll share practical tips for planning, marketing and executing events that not only educate but also inspire and empower caregivers. Whether you’re starting from scratch or enhancing an existing program, this interactive session will provide actionable insights and proven approaches to help you create events that strengthen community connections and improve caregiver well-being.
Presenters:
J. Cooper Linton, Entity Leader/Associate Vice President Duke HomeCare & Hospice at Duke University Health System, Duke Health, Durham, NC
[biography]
With over 25 years of experience in hospice, home health, home infusion, and community-based care, I am a healthcare executive who leads operations and growth initiatives for Duke HomeCare & Hospice, a part of Duke University Health System.
Nicole Clagett, Director of Caregiver Support and Community Development, Duke Health, Durham, NC
[biography]
Being an advocate for people affected by chronic, severe, and life-limiting illnesses is a passion of mine. With over 25 years of experience working with older adults and their caregivers as a trained social worker, I have had the opportunity to serve individuals both personally and professionally.
W83) Person-Centered Approaches in the SMP, SHIP and MIPPA Programs
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Each day, we create opportunities, face challenges and gain experiences that shape how we serve others. Recognizing that every person’s journey is unique, the U.S. Administration for Community Living partnered with the National Center on Advancing Person-Centered Practices and Systems (NCAPPS) and the Human Services Research Institute (HSRI) to strengthen Senior Medicare Patrol, Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program, and Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA) grantee competencies in Person-Centered Thinking (PCT) Practices. NCAPPS defines PCT as focusing language, values and actions on respecting individuals and their loved ones, emphasizing quality of life, well-being and informed choice. This session introduces key PCT concepts and terminology, guided reflection, group discussion, strategies for asking demographic questions and practical tools. Although developed for specific grantees, the PCT tools are valuable for anyone working in client service organizations.
Presenters:
Maggie Flowers, MIPPA Program Director, Office of Healthcare Information and Counseling, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Maggie Flowers is Medicare Program Director at the Administration for Community Living, leading the MIPPA program to help older adults and people with disabilities access Medicare and low-income benefits. She has extensive experience in economic security and aging services and holds degrees from Texas A&M University and UT Austin.
Melissa Simpson, Assistant Director, Office of Healthcare Information and Counseling, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Melissa Simpson has extensive experience building partnerships to support grantees and Medicare beneficiaries at the state and national level. Previous work includes senior program manager at the National Council on Aging and the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) director in Arkansas. She holds a Master of Public Administration.
W85) Rebuilding After the Storm: Lessons in Survival and Resilience After Hurricane Helene
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
In the wake of a devastating Hurricane Helene, our community has shown tremendous strength—especially among our older residents. This workshop is designed to capture that resilience by sharing best practices, innovative ideas, and lived experiences that can improve disaster response for older adults. Join us as we learn, plan, and build a stronger, more prepared community for the future.
Presenter:
LeeAnne Tucker, Area Agency on Aging Director, Land of Sky Regional Council, Asheville, NC
W86) The Dementia Friendly America Movement—An Opportunity for EVERYONE to Engage
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Dementia Friendly America (DFA) envisions a nation where people living with dementia and their care partners can live and engage fully, no matter where they reside. The DFA Movement is increasing dementia awareness; reducing stigma; and providing high-quality resources, education and support that enables the creation of dementia-friendly communities. Serving as the backbone of a movement comprised of a national network of communities, organizations and individuals, DFA fosters collaboration and cultivates dementia-friendly practices across the United States. This session will offer an overview of DFA’s core pillars: Dementia Friends, Dementia Friendly Communities, the Memory Cafe Alliance, and the Giving Voice Network of Dementia Friendly Choirs. There are opportunities for everyone to engage. Come to this session to learn how to join this growing movement!
Presenters:
Jennifer Hammer, Assistant Director, Dementia Friendly America, USAging, Washington, DC
Mary Ek, Director, Dementia Friendly America and Community Care Corps, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Mary Ek is the Program Director for Dementia Friendly America, a national initiative administered by USAging. Through her work, Mary supports dementia-friendly communities and Dementia Friends administrators by providing technical assistance, facilitating webinars and collaboration among stakeholders and managing the development and sharing of dementia-resources.
W87) From Concept to Care: Creating Sustainable Housing Solutions With Managed Care Organizations
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
This session explores how a AAA partnered with a managed care organization to launch a strategic housing pilot serving high-risk, homeless older adults. Learn how we built a multidisciplinary team, developed a sustainable cost model and collaborated with community partners to address complex care needs through innovative care management. Attendees will gain practical insights on designing and implementing similar programs, forging payor partnerships and overcoming real-world challenges in housing stability for vulnerable populations.
Presenters:
Michael Kroeker, Project Manager, Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging, Pittsburgh, PA
[biography]
Michael is a Project Manager at the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging. He brings a social work lens and public health lens to human services. Michael’s role as a Project Manager focuses on aligning internal systems, improving communications, creating programs, and process improvement.
Rainna Bernesser, Director of Special Services and Strategic Planning Bureau, Allegheny County Area Agency of Aging, Pittsburgh, PA
[biography]
Rainna Bernesser, MSW, MPA is the force behind Allegheny County's Care Transitions Program as a leader in quality performance. She has built and continues to refine an effective and forward-thinking process improvement for CCTP. Rainna has 19 years’ experience working with AAA.
W88) Measuring Impact to Support Sustainability of Social Connection Programs
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Effective measurement and evaluation are essential for ensuring your social connection program’s sustainability. This workshop will equip AAAs with tools and strategies to pursue these critical activities. Attendees will learn about evaluation strategies and outcomes from Commit to Connect’s latest community of practice (CoP), which focused on analyzing the social connection impact of Chronic Disease Self-Management programs. Participants will also learn about new measures used to evaluate social connection programs in that CoP. Additionally, we will share insights from the Strengthening Social Connection in Communities initiative about grantee evaluation activities. Participants will leave with practical strategies to quantify program impact and support sustainability goals.
Presenters:
Katie Clark, Policy Analyst, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Katie is a Policy Analyst at the Administration for Community Living and leads the Commit to Connect Initiative, a cross-sector initiative promoting social engagement and connection.
Matthew Lee Smith, Associate Professor, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
[biography]
Dr. Matthew Lee Smith is an associate professor in the Texas A&M School of Public Health. As an evaluator and interventionist, his research addresses health risk across the life-course and the uptake of evidence-based solutions for older adults. Dr. Smith’s translational work bridges research and practice issues across sectors.
Meredith Hanley, Program Director, Commit to Connect, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Meredith Hanley serves as a Program Director overseeing USAging’s work relation to social connection, caregiving services and supports and kinship care.
W89) Empowering Adults: Safe Haven for Survivors of Abuse, Neglect and Crime
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
This session explores the unique challenges faced by older adult victims of abuse, neglect, exploitation and crime. A panel of experts in elder care, victim advocacy and social services will highlight the prevalence of elder abuse, share data and trends, and introduce the Safe Haven model: a community-based, collaborative, noninstitutional service delivery framework currently operating in 13 Michigan counties. Attendees will learn the model’s key components, lessons from implementation and strategies for replication to meet the needs of their own communities. Through case studies and Q&A, participants will gain practical tools to strengthen safety, dignity and empowerment for older adults while fostering cross-sector collaboration to build comprehensive support networks.
Presenters:
Kathy Greenlee, Senior Director of Elder Justice Initiatives, ADvancing States, Arlington, VA
[biography]
Kathy Greenlee is a visionary thought leader, policy expert, and advocate with over 20 years of executive experience in health and human services at the international, national, and state level. She currently serves as Senior Director of Elder Justice Initiatives at ADvancing States, based in Washington, DC and Kansas City.
Nichole Baker, Chief Services Officer, WellWise Services, Jackson, MI
[biography]
Nichole Baker is the Chief Services Officer at WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging, in South Central Michigan. Nichole leads program development, advocacy, and grant-funded initiatives, with a focus on community planning and systems analysis. She’s served in a variety of roles with area nonprofits providing clinical supervision and direct community services.
Kara Lorenz-Goings, Chief Executive Officer, WellWise Services, Jackson, MI
[biography]
Kara has been with WellWise Services for more than 11 years and was named Chief Executive Officer in May 2025. Kara brings more than 20 years of experience in LongTerm Supports and Services including serving as Deputy Director at the Jackson Department on Aging and consulting for nursing facilities.
W90) Caregiver Support and Connection Program: Innovating Care Through AAA and Health Care Collaboration
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
This sessions highlights an innovative partnership between The Erie County Department for the Aging and Erie County Medical Center designed to strengthen support for family caregivers during one of the most stressful moments they face: hospitalization. By connecting directly with caregivers at the bedside, the program identifies their needs early and links them with essential community supports and services. This proactive approach helps prevent caregiver burnout, reduces avoidable hospital readmissions,and ensures patients return home to a safer, more stable environment. Attendees will learn how this collaboration bridges health care and aging services, the impact it is having on caregiver well-being, and practical steps for replicating this model to improve outcomes in their own community.
Presenters:
Kimberly Leonard, Assistant Long-Term Care Coordinator, Erie County Department for the Aging, Buffalo, NY
[biography]
As The Assistant Long-Term Care Coordinator, Kimberly’s role is to oversee and expand caregiver services and support provided by Erie County Department for the Aging and look for ways to partner with community agencies. As a caregiver herself, Kimberly understands the need for additional services and support for our caregivers.
Kathryn Sullivan, Social Worker, Erie County Medical Center Palliative Care & Supportive Medicine, Buffalo, NY
[biography]
Kate has a Master’s in Social Work from the University at Buffalo and works with the Palliative Care and Supportive Medicine team at Erie County Medical Center. Helping patients and their caregivers is very important to Kate.
Kate enjoys spending time with her husband, son and two dogs.
2:30 PM
3:30 PM
Workshops
W91) ACL Discussion Session for Regions 8, 9 and 10
Focus Area: Not Applicable - General Session
Note: This session is only open to AAAs and Title VI programs.
Join your AAA/Title VI peers in your regions for an open dialogue with U.S. Administration for Community Living senior leaders. Bring your questions, concerns and successes from the AAA/Title VI perspective to share with our federal partners.
Presenters:
Adam Mosey, Special Assistant, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Adam Mosey currently serves as a Special Assistant at the Administration on Aging, one of ACL’s programmatic Centers, where he works on key policy and program issues related to the Older Americans Act. He also concurrently serves as a Sergeant First Class in the Army National Guard.
Alice Kelsey, Deputy Director, Administration on Aging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Alice Kelsey is the Deputy Director for the Administration on Aging. She has 15 years’ experience in the Aging Network and holds a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs.
Kari Benson, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Kari Benson serves as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging for the Administration on Aging. Kari has spent her entire career in the aging network and holds degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota.
W92) Medically Tailored Home-Delivered Meals: A Healthy-Aging Service
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
The Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging partnered with Age-Friendly Greater Pittsburgh, care management providers, and our home-delivered meals network to create a referral pathway connecting older adults with hypertension to medically tailored meals and supportive services. This cross-sector initiative integrates recruitment protocols across three AAA touchpoints, SeniorLine, Options Care Management, and Community-Based Services, creating multiple access points to address chronic disease management, food insecurity and social isolation. In addition to meals, participants receive nutrition education and opportunities for social engagement to improve well-being. Now in Year 3, the project has served 200 participants, with a total goal of 400. Attendees will learn about the model and our toolkit.
Presenters:
Kenya Brown, Executive Assistant, Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging, Pittsburgh, PA
[biography]
Kenya is the Executive Assistant to the Director of the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging. She holds a Master of Social Work and a Master of Business Administration. She has five years of social work experience. Kenya is dedicated to improving the quality of life for older adults.
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Director of Aging Services, Allegheny County Department of Human Services Area Agency on Aging, Pittsburgh, PA
[biography]
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, Ph.D., is Director of the Allegheny County DHS Area Agency on Aging. Since 2022, she has transformed services, reaching over 39,000 people annually. With extensive research and nonprofit leadership experience, she advances community-driven advocacy, earning recognition from USAging, The John A. Hartford Foundation, and Pittsburgh Business Times.
W93) Developing and Scaling Sustainable Community-Based Dementia Programs
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
It can be a reality! Sustainability in program development is at the core of the U.S. Administration for Community Living’s Alzheimer’s Disease Programs Initiative (ADPI) grants. This panel will discuss the ways in which grantees have planned for and are sustaining their federally funded programs after the grant has ended. Discussion will include strategies implemented to sustain programs, all informed by pilot programs and the use of solid evaluation data that shows impact of the program to secure financial support beyond a federal grant period.
Presenter:
Erin Long, Aging Services Program Specialist, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Coming soon
W94) Tactfully Teaching Tech to Older Adults Through Emotional Intelligence and Psychological Practices
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Empower your community by helping older adults navigate technology with confidence! This session goes beyond basic skills—it emphasizes emotional intelligence, awareness of age-related cognitive changes and psychological factors. You’ll learn proven strategies that make tech education enjoyable and effective for both instructors and learners. Join us to discover practical tips that promote digital fairness, build confidence and create meaningful connections. Technology isn’t just about skills—it’s a powerful tool for fostering social connection and supporting healthy aging. Whether you’re a program coordinator, volunteer, educator or caregiver, you’ll leave equipped with tools to make technology learning for older adults engaging and rewarding.
Presenters:
Sherri Carson, Director of Healthy Living, Connections Area Agency on Aging, Council Bluffs, IA
[biography]
Sherri is the Director of Healthy Living at Connections AAA in Council Bluffs, IA. Sherri has been with the agency since 1993, serving in her current role since 2000.
Meg von Lossnitzer, Director of Community Programs, Mystic Valley Elder Services, Malden, MA
[biography]
Meg is a dedicated program leader and skilled mentor with over twenty years of experience in the fields of public health, wellness, and prevention. Meg is skilled and experienced in the oversight and management of complex and multilevel grant funded programs.
W95) San Diego Scam Jam: A Collaborative Model to Build Scam Smart Communities
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
The San Diego Scam Jam Tour is a dynamic, multiagency initiative designed to educate older adults about financial fraud and provide the tools needed to protect themselves from fraud. This session will highlight the collaborative efforts between the County of San Diego, Aging & Independence Services; AARP California; San Diego Elder Justice Task Force; and other local partners. The collaboration successfully hosted fraud prevention events across the San Diego region, reaching more than 1,400 older adults, caregivers and professionals. This session will explore how the initiative was developed, the strategies used to engage communities representing varied populations and the measurable impact of fraud awareness and prevention. Attendees will learn how to replicate this collaborative model to build their own scam-smart communities.
Presenters:
Jennifer Yoon, Senior Adult Protective Services Specialist, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Jennifer Yoon is a Senior Adult Protective Services Specialist at Aging & Independence Services, a department of the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency. She leads efforts to protect older adults from abuse and exploitation. Her expertise lies in identifying and preventing elder fraud and scams.
Jonathan Tague, Outreach & Education Specialist, Aging & Independence Services, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Jonathan Tague (he/him) has over 15 years of experience working with older adults and people living with dementia, including a diverse background in care management, community education, and program and volunteer administration. He has a M.S. in Dementia and Aging Studies from Texas State University.
Tiffany Zhang, Community Engagement and Outreach Manager, AARP California, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
Tiffany Zhang is a Community Engagement and Outreach Manager at AARP California. Based in San Diego, she leads multicultural engagement, volunteer programs, and community education initiatives. With a background in public health, Tiffany advances AARP’s mission to help people age with confidence and build livable communities.
W97) Black Aging and Advocacy in Action Reimagined
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Older Black Californians encounter greater barriers to aging with dignity, health and community compared to others. This panel will identify gaps in behavioral health, wellness infrastructure and caregiving support, and propose culturally responsive reforms aligned with the California Master Plan on Aging (MPA). The focus is on investing in Black-led organizations, community models and culturally rooted care to reduce health disparities and promote statewide fairness for all. The panel’s goals are to reduce gaps in health access and outcomes for older Black Californians, elevate community-led wellness and behavioral health solutions, and reimagine caregiving for aging adults. Objectives include highlighting persistent health disparities; sharing empowering practices; discussing barriers and policy shifts; and fostering dialogue among advocates, policymakers and providers to strengthen wraparound services.
Presenters:
Bryan Gaines, Co-Chair Project Assistant, Advocates for African American Elders USC Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, Irvine, CA
[biography]
Dr. Bryan F. Gaines is Co-Director of Advocates for African American Elders at UCI CEHDR, providing culturally competent health education for low-income African American seniors. He holds degrees from USC in psychology and social work, and serves on aging committees and the Los Angeles Southwest College Foundation board.
Lenore Tate, Clinical & Forensic Psychologist, Public Policy Expert in Health & Aging ,Consultant & Trainer on Trauma, Wellness and Workplace Violence, Sacramento, CA
[biography]
Lenore A. Tate, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist committed to promoting mental and behavioral health and public policy. Dr. Tate has dedicated more than 30 years to mental health and public policy specializing in geriatric psychology, neuropsychology, and trauma. She is currently a member of the California Commission
Kelly Dearman, Executive Director, San Francisco Disability and Aging Services, San Francisco, CA
[biography]
Executive Director, San Francisco Department of Disability and Aging Services (DAS). Kelly leads the City’s integrated aging and disability service system, supporting independence, dignity, and community living for more than 70,000 older adults and disabled residents.
W98) Volunteers at the Core: Driving Organizational Change
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
The Span Center’s two-year journey to Service Enterprise Accreditation transformed volunteer engagement, elevating volunteers from helpers to strategic partners. This process sparked significant organizational changes, including new leadership structures and a stronger volunteer voice in decision-making. At the core, it transformed how we viewed and engaged volunteers. In this interactive workshop, we’ll share the steps we took, the measurable impact on programs and culture, and practical strategies for AAAs seeking similar change. Attendees will learn how to leverage volunteer talent to strengthen mission delivery, build organizational capacity and create sustainable engagement practices that can be applied within their own programs and communities.
Presenters:
Carol Ayars, AmeriCorps Seniors Programs Manager, Senior Connections, The Capital Area Agency on Aging, Richmond, VA
[biography]
Carol Ayars, CVA has been in the volunteer engagement field for over 25 years and is the AmeriCorps Seniors Programs Manager at The Span Center, The Capital Area Agency on Aging. She also serves on several local, state and national boards related to field of volunteerism engagement.
Shana Beverly, Volunteer Services Manager, The Span Center, The Capital Area Agency on Aging, Richmond, VA
[biography]
Shana Beverly, CVA, is the Volunteer Services Manager at The Span Center, The Capital Area Agency on Aging. She develops and implements strategies for volunteer recruitment, retention, and recognition for the Center’s 200 plus volunteers and has helped foster their continually expanding culture of volunteerism.
Heather Fortune, Vice President of Advocacy and Engagement, Senior Connections, The Capital Area Agency on Aging, Richmond, VA
[biography]
Heather Fortune is the Vice President of Advocacy and Engagement with The SPAN Center, The Capital Area Agency on Aging. She serves on several boards and advisory councils related to aging and the community. Recently, she was honored as the 2025 Goochland Chamber of Commerce Young Professional of the
W99) Stronger Together: Driving Social Connectedness Through Regional Collaboration
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
Isolation impacts all ages and AgeGuide is leading the charge to increase social connections. Join us for an engaging session that showcases how AgeGuide, its regional Health Departments, the Illinois Public Health Institute, and funded providers collaborated to strengthen social connectedness across the lifespan.
Discover how this initiative launched an eight-county Social Connectedness Awareness Campaign through cross-promotion and shared resources that built healthier communities. Learn how to align Community Needs Assessments and focus groups to track impact through consistent metrics and monthly reporting.
See how this collaboration expanded to include Aging and Disability Resource Networks and Nutrition providers creating joint events and resource sharing.
Walk away with actionable strategies, campaign insights, and a roadmap to replicate this success. Attend and see collaboration in action!
Presenters:
Leslie Edstrom, Director of Planning, Grants and Program Development, AgeGuide, Lombard, IL
[biography]
Leslie Edstrom is the Director of Planning, Grants, and Program Development at AgeGuide. She leads AgeGuide's advocacy, coordination, program development, and grant administration activities. Her mission is to ensure older adults remain independent and engaged in their communities.
Marla Fronczak, CEO, AgeGuide Northeastern IL, Lombard, IL
[biography]
Marla Fronczak is the CEO of AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois. She has a Master of Science in Nonprofit Management. Marla is the President of the Illinois Association of Area Agencies on Aging (I4A) and a member of the Milken Institute Alliance to Improve Dementia Care.
W101) Building a Successful Caregiver Coalition: A Blueprint for Community Support
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
This session will provide attendees with replicable frameworks for establishing, operating and sustaining a caregiver coalition to educate the community and increase access to resources. Attendees will hear from two different AAAs that took different approaches to developing their coalitions and are at different stages of coalition progress. The Caregiver Coalition of San Diego and Milwaukee Coalition for African American Caregivers will share the structure and goals of their coalitions, comprehensive programming developed by the coalitions and key outputs and outcomes. Attendees will receive tools and tips to create goal-oriented coalitions driven by volunteer members from local agencies. Coalitions can be tailored to meet unique community needs and align with AAA goals, ultimately improving the quality of life for caregivers.
Presenters:
Kayla Steinke, Caregiver Support Coordinator, Milwaukee County Aging & Disabilities Services, Milwaukee, WI
[biography]
Kayla Steinke is a Caregiver Support Coordinator at Milwaukee County Aging & Disabilities Services. She has had a variety of experiences working in the field of aging including direct case management, in-home care, advocacy, and program management to support wellness and independence for older adults.
Matthew Parcasio, Caregiver Programs and Outreach Coordinator, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Matthew is the Caregiver Programs Coordinator and Outreach Coordinator at Aging & Independence Services, a division of the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency. Matthew is committed to advancing the Live Well San Diego vision of a region that is building better health, living safely, and thriving.
W102) Beyond the Route: Innovating Mobility for People Who Are Hard to Reach
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Transportation that truly serves everyone requires creativity, collaboration and a willingness to reach beyond traditional service models, especially for older adults and people with disabilities living in hard-to-reach communities. This session highlights the Area Agency on Aging of Western Arkansas (AAWA), which operates Western Transit System (WTS), a rural, accessible transportation service in 11 counties. For 30 years, AAAWA has helped aging Arkansans stay independent, active and connected by providing dependable, accessible transportation to nonemergency medical appointments, essential errands and community activities. Its diverse fleet includes accessible vehicles equipped with ramps and lifts along with the latest technology in restraints. Additionally, WTS drivers receive specialized training in wheelchair securement and passenger assistance to safely handle passenger needs. The session will also feature the Utah Assistive Technology Program’s Lab on Wheels, a mobile service that brings assistive technology demonstrations, device loans, repairs, caregiver coaching, and home-safety guidance directly to rural communities where transportation and service access are limited. Partnerships with AAAs, Aging and Disability Resource Centers and community organizations strengthen coordination between assistive technology services and transportation providers, helping address mobility barriers and support independence for older adults and people with disabilities. The session will open with an overview of the Accessible Transportation Resource Center and its national role as a technical assistance center, highlighting the tools and technical assistance available to help communities build more accessible, inclusive transportation systems.
Presenters:
Bora Lee, Program Director, Utah Assistive Technology Program, Logan, UT
[biography]
Will add
Kyle Stiles, Director of Transportation, Area Agency On Aging Western Of Arkansas, Fort Smith, AR
[biography]
I am a Born and Raised Arkansan that moved back to his hometown in 2024 to fulfill a purpose of serving the community. I believe that we all achieve our purpose once we work for something larger than ourselves.
David Somers, Senior Research Associate, Transportation and Mobility, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Staff
3:45 PM
4:45 PM
Workshops
W103) ACL Connections and Older Americans Act Updates
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
The U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL) leadership team provides support to the national Aging Network in a variety of ways. This session will introduce ACL leadership and provide attendees with timely updates on the administration of Older Americans Act (OAA) programs and how ACL supports the Aging Network. Bring your questions about the work of ACL, the OAA or other key aging efforts.
Presenters:
Adam Mosey, Special Assistant, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Adam Mosey currently serves as a Special Assistant at the Administration on Aging, one of ACL’s programmatic Centers, where he works on key policy and program issues related to the Older Americans Act. He also concurrently serves as a Sergeant First Class in the Army National Guard.
Alice Kelsey, Deputy Director, Administration on Aging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Alice Kelsey is the Deputy Director for the Administration on Aging. She has 15 years’ experience in the Aging Network and holds a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs.
3:45 PM
4:15 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
FT42) Caring for Caregivers: How Technology Can Ease the Burdens
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Explore how technology can support caregivers, especially older adults, who face complex responsibilities and frequent stress. Drawing on insights from the recently published Caring for Caregivers: How Technology Can Ease the Burdens report from Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) From AARP, this session will highlight findings from a 350-person survey of older adults who identify as caregivers. We will address the gaps between technology’s promise of transformation and caregivers’ real needs and spotlight opportunities for stakeholders such as AAAs to improve access, usability and training on technologies. Attendees will gain actionable ideas for how they can help improve access to information, streamline care coordination and foster supportive communities.
Presenters:
Ryan Kawamoto, West Regional Program Manager, Older Adults Technology Services From AARP, Santa Clara, CA
[biography]
Ryan, a California Bay Area native, is the West Regional Program Manager. He is the former Executive Director of Yu-Ai Kai Japanese American Community Senior Service of San Jose and the former Chair of the Aging Services Collaborative of Santa Clara County. Ryan has an undergraduate degree in political science
Roberto Velasquez, President & CEO, Southern Caregiver Resource Center, Chula Vista, CA
[biography]
Roberto Velasquez is the President & CEO for Southern Caregiver Resource Center (SCRC) and has 38+ years in health and aging services. A San Diego State graduate, he pioneered programs for Latino caregivers and leads SCRC’s operation serving over 200,000 California families. He champions evidence-based care and and collaborative community.
FT43) Join the Nationwide Network of Champions
Focus Area: Promoting Healthy Aging and Social Connection
This interactive session is an orientation to joining and taking advantage of Commit to Connect’s Nationwide Network of Champions (NNOC)—a national platform for leaders committed to addressing social isolation and loneliness at the local, state or national level. Speakers will share the benefits of becoming a Champion and how the NNOC provides a forum for peer-to-peer collaboration. Engage in an interactive discussion to shape future developments in this platform and leave with new tools and a network to grow your social connection efforts.
Presenters:
Ali Fehlhaber, Program Manager, engAGED: USAging’s Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults, USAging, Washington, DC
Katie Clark, Policy Analyst, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
Katie is a Policy Analyst at the Administration for Community Living and leads the Commit to Connect Initiative, a cross-sector initiative promoting social engagement and connection.
FT44) State Association and State Unit on Aging Leadership for Advancement
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
New York State has received more than $200 million in additional funding from the state government for documenting and advocating for unmet needs of older adults and family caregivers. The Association on Aging in New York has a strong partnership with the New York State Office for the Aging and has developed and implemented procedures to accurately reflect the unmet needs of the community. The association has further leveraged this partnership to make the economic case for investments that reduce Medicaid costs and increase access to home and community-based services. Additionally, this partnership has supported the creation of an Independent Practice Association housed within the Association on Aging to create pathways on behalf of the AAA network for insurers to pay on behalf of beneficiaries.
Presenters:
Rebecca Preve, Executive Director, Association on Aging in New York, Albany, NY
[biography]
Becky Preve is the Executive Director for the Association on Aging in New York, a member organization representing the 59 area agencies on aging in NY. The mission of the Association is to support and enhance the capacity of New York’s local area agencies on aging and to work in
Greg Olsen, Director, New York State Office for the Aging, Albany, NY
[biography]
Greg Olsen is the Acting Director of the New York State Office for the Aging where he is responsible for the oversight and day to day operations and the administration of federal and state funded programs designed to assist the more than 4.6 million older adult residents in the state.
FT45) Volunteers at the Core: Supporting Caregivers Through Faith-Based Programs
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
The Caring Together, Living Better (CTLB) Program thrives because of its dedicated volunteers, who act as trusted voices and bring devotion, love and creativity to every community they serve. AgeOptions empowers volunteers through tailored, individualized support, resources and tools helping them to leverage their unique strengths in service of their community. Each CTLB site is shaped by volunteers who design programming tailored to the needs of African American and Latinx caregivers and older adults. Join this session to hear stories, lessons learned and case examples, and explore how culturally humble, relationship-centered strategies can strengthen partnerships and create meaningful, safe spaces for all aging communities.
Presenters:
Cristina Diaz, Manager of Community Programs, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Cristina works as AgeOptions Manager of Community Programs overseeing the Caregiver, Nutrition and Aging with Pride Programs and other special projects. Cristina holds a master's in public health (MPH).
Cynthia Ayala, Caregiver and Dementia Programs Specialist, AgeOptions, Oak Park, IL
[biography]
Cynthia is the Caregiver and Dementia Programs Specialist at AgeOptions. Cynthia leads the Caring Together, Living Better (CTLB) Program, extends support to the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Program, and supports Dementia Friendly efforts.
FT46) Reaching New Audiences: Digital Innovation in SHIP and SMP Outreach
Focus Area: Meeting the Unique Needs of Aging Communities
Discover how AgeGuide’s Senior Health Insurance Program and Senior Medicare Patrol programs are breaking new ground in outreach technology by leveraging digital tools and creative strategies to connect with hard-to-reach populations. This session will showcase the use of targeted digital ad campaigns, interactive platforms like VideoAsk and multilingual Medicare videos to deliver more personalized and accessible information. Learn how video-based resources and innovative storytelling, such as The Age Guide Podcast, are empowering communities with knowledge and advocacy. Join us to explore how these cutting-edge approaches not only enhance audience engagement but also improve access to public benefits, ensuring that those who need services most are better informed and prepared to utilize them. Let’s transform outreach into a dynamic, welcoming and impactful experience.
Presenters:
Melissa Brackmann, Communications Specialist, AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois, Lombard, IL
[biography]
Melissa Brackmann is the Communications Specialist at AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois. As a seasoned Communications professional, she specializes in implementing strategic communications strategies to enhance an organization’s outreach. Melissa has worked in the field of aging for over 6 years and the field of Communications for over 10 years with experience
Val Guzman, Benefit Access Specialist, AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois, Lombard, IL
[biography]
Val Guzman is the Benefit Access Specialist with AgeGuide Northeastern. As a SHIP Coordinator, Val has been expanding the use of digital media to increase awareness of important Medicare cost saving benefits and to better connect with underserved communities.
FT47) Leveraging Electronic Health Records to Improve Dementia Detection and Diagnosis
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Dementia-causing diseases remain widely underdiagnosed, but integrating validated cognitive screening tools into electronic health record systems can dramatically improve early detection and patient outcomes. This session highlights the County of San Diego’s Healthy Brain Initiative project, offering key steps, best practices and lessons learned from implementing dementia screening workflows across four health systems. We will also share how AAAs and social services agencies can support these efforts.
Presenters:
Carolyn Kendle, Community Health Program Specialist, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Carolyn Kendle, MPH is a Community Health Program Specialist with the County of San Diego’s Aging & Independence Services. She oversees County initiatives, programs, and grants related to older adult fall prevention and dementia, including Dementia Friends, Tai Chi, and the Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program.
Roberto Ramirez, Health Promotion Manager, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Aging & Independence Services, San Diego, CA
[biography]
Roberto currently serves as the Health Promotion Manager at the County of San Diego, Aging & Independence Services (AIS). At AIS, Roberto oversees the planning and implementation of various health and wellness programs and initiatives which aim to help older adults live healthy, safe, and thriving lives.
FT48) Interdepartmental Collaboration for Impactful Community Planning
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
When AAAs thoughtfully and intentionally bring together their programmatic and fiscal departments for collaboration throughout the annual and multi-year planning process, it makes for more effective community plans and agency budgets. Often, programmatic and fiscal departments operate in silos, making it difficult for agencies to respond to unforeseen funding shifts, contract variances and new initiatives. But collaboratively drafted agency plans drive effective contract management, foster innovation and creativity (especially with stagnant funding) and better meet the needs of community members. This session proposes a foundational framework for programmatic and fiscal department collaboration and offers ready-to-use tools and workflows for immediate implementation.
Presenters:
Malloree Colburn, Controller, WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging, Brooklyn, MI
[biography]
Malloree Colburn serves as the Controller for WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging. Her role at the agency has grown since she joined the Agency in 2019, making Malloree an expert on all aspects of the Agency's fiscal infrastructure.
Nichole Baker, Chief Services Officer, WellWise Services, Jackson, MI
[biography]
Nichole Baker is the Chief Services Officer at WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging, in South Central Michigan. Nichole leads program development, advocacy, and grant-funded initiatives, with a focus on community planning and systems analysis. She’s served in a variety of roles with area nonprofits providing clinical supervision and direct community services.
FT49) Housing Connections: SMAA and Legal Services for Maine Elders’ Eviction Prevention Program
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Southern Maine Agency on Aging’s (SMAA) Housing Connections program helps people to stay in their homes and search for housing if they need it. We will do a deep dive into a critical piece of Housing Connections, SMAA and Legal Services for Maine Elders’ Eviction Prevention Program. Learn why SMAA initiated this pilot, how the interagency collaboration works and what its impact has been for older adults. Case scenarios and data will bring the program to life for attendees, who will be given tips and resources for replicating this program in their own communities.
Presenter:
Renee Longarini, Chief Operating Officer, Southern Maine Agency on Aging, Biddeford, ME
[biography]
Renee Longarini, Chief Operating Officer of Southern Maine Agency on Aging, leads strategy and operations across three regional centers serving older adults, adults with disabilities, and caregivers. With more than 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience, she focuses on innovative programs and systems that strengthen community-based aging services.
4:30 PM
5:00 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
FT50) Community Care Hub Contracting: A Retrospective Look at Health Care Contracting
Focus Area: Aligning Health and Social Care: Health Care Contracting and Systems Integration
Has your organization taken the leap into contracting within the medical and health insurance world? Whether you are still studying or a seasoned veteran in the contracting world, this session will explore the journey from a retrospective viewpoint and provide a roadmap of potential rewards and pitfalls. The new model of developing partnerships within the medical providers and health insurance communities to impact the whole-person outcomes is still new to many community-based organizations and community care hubs. This session will explore contracting from a 20/20 hindsight viewpoint and compare early assumptions to latter-day hard-learned experiences. Various contracting models and their different implementation impacts will be discussed. Attendees will be encouraged to share their own lessons learned.
Presenters:
Dave Crocker, Director, Community Care and Community Based Services, Southern Alabama Regional Council on Aging, Dothan, AL
[biography]
Later
Nikki Kmicinski, Executive Director, Western New York Integrated Care Collaborative, Inc., Buffalo, NY
[biography]
Executive Director Western New York integrated Care Collaborative, Nikki is leading a Community Care Hub for a regional network which includes AAAs, ILCs and CBOs committed to improving health in Western NY. Nikki obtained her Bachelor and Masters degrees at Rochester Institute of Technology and is a Registered Dietitian.
FT51) Maintaining Independence in a Shrinking World: Living Alone With Memory Loss
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
We all know that there are numerous changes that accompany aging in place that lead to stress and frustration for older adults. Imagine attempting to navigate these changes alone while also coming to terms with memory loss or a dementia diagnosis. This session will focus on an especially vulnerable population: individuals who are living alone with dementia and do NOT have an identified caregiver. The CRIS Healthy Aging Memory Support Program, funded by the U.S. Administration for Community Living, is exploring how to provide effective support and services to fill this gap. Join us to learn about our initial thoughts for working with these individuals and help us brainstorm solutions to ongoing challenges. We will review case studies of real clients we have served and engage in an open-forum discussion.
Presenters:
Samantha Rogers, CRIS Memory Support Program Specialist, CRIS Healthy Aging, Champaign, IL
[biography]
With a background in Community Health, Samantha brings knowledge and compassion to family caregivers of persons with dementia. She strives to help clients feel seen and heard, offering solutions and encouraging self-care.
Skye Satz, Memory Support Program Manager, CRIS Healthy Aging, Champaign, IL
[biography]
Skye Satz is the Memory Support Program Manager at CRIS Healthy Aging. This program supports unpaid family caregivers of persons with dementia using evidence-based interventions and offers training to community members and local professionals to understand memory loss and brain health. Skye enjoys teaching exercise for both body and brain!
FT52) Grow Your Operations and Enhance Your Impact With USAging Consultants
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
This interactive session will offer an opportunity to meet expert national consultants and learn how they support and collaborate with organizations like yours. Through brief presentations, consultants will share examples of their work and identify challenges they have helped organizations address. This session will showcase strategies they’ve used to support capacity building efforts, creating business efficiencies and preparing for new strategic partnerships. Attendees will have the opportunity to tap into expert insights by engaging in breakout discussions to ask questions and explore scenarios relevant to your work, as well as experiencing in real time how consultants strategically think through operational issues and partnership opportunities. Learn how USAging consultants can support your efforts to expand capacity, enhance operations and strengthen your organization’s ability to respond to new opportunities.
Presenters:
Maya Op de Beke, Senior Program Manager, Aging and Disability Institute, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
Maya Op de Beke is the is the Program Manager for USAging’s Aging and Disability Business Institute, focused on supporting community-based organizations (CBOs) in their pursuit to strengthen partnerships with the health care system. She has a Master of Science degree in Gerontology and a Bachelor of Science in
Paul Cantrell, Director, Center of Excellence to to Align Health and Social Care, USAging, Washington, DC
[biography]
More than 30 years of experience in managed care and social service organizational leadership and consulting. Experience includes: State Insurance Regulator, Managed Care Corporate Director, AAA Hub Executive Director, and 10+ years USAging, SUA, state AAA association and AAA consulting.
FT53) Building Agency Visibility Through Strategic Marketing, Branding and Measurable Outreach
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
AAAs are facing rising community needs, increasing competition for attention and persistent misunderstandings and misconceptions across communities about the services they provide. This session highlights how one AAA launched a strategic marketing and branding campaign that significantly improved public awareness; strengthened Aging and Disability Resource Unit protocols and data collection; and increased engagement among older adults, caregivers, community-based organizations and stakeholders. Presenters will share how they developed a unified brand identity, modernized messaging, built a multichannel outreach strategy and used analytics to measure what worked—and what didn’t. Participants will leave with practical templates for message testing, campaign planning and evaluating return-on-outreach investments. This session is designed to help AAAs enhance their visibility, build trust and connect more effectively with residents.
Presenters:
Kimberly Johnson, Director, Area Agency on Aging, Montgomery County Government Department of Health and Human Services, Rockville, MD
[biography]
Dr. Kimberly Johnson, Ph.D., LCSW-C, leads Montgomery County’s Area Agency on Aging, overseeing programs that support older adults in aging in place. With expertise in aging services, emergency preparedness, and care management, she is also an educator and advocate committed to enhancing the lives of Maryland’s aging population.
Patrice McGhee, Chief, Aging & Disability Services, Montgomery County Government Department. of Health and Human Services, Rockville, MD
[biography]
Dr. Patrice L. McGhee is the Chief of Aging and Disability Services for Montgomery County, MD, leading programs that advance independence and equity for older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers. With 15+ years of cross-sector leadership, she drives reforms that expand access, improve outcomes, and elevate resident voice.
FT55) Bridging Care Through Culture: The CHW Approach to Supporting Caregivers of All Backgrounds
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Family caregivers are navigating increasingly complex health care and social service systems, often while balancing cultural expectations, language barriers and limited support. This session explores how community health workers (CHWs) strengthen caregiver outcomes by providing culturally grounded communication, trusted guidance and navigation support that traditional systems may overlook. Real examples will be shared of CHWs using shared language, cultural insight and community relationships to reduce caregiver stress, improve access to resources and close gaps in support. Participants will learn strategies for embedding CHWs into caregiver programs, including culturally competent messaging, language-concordant support and partnership models that reflect community values. Evidence from fieldwork and caregiver feedback demonstrates increased trust, improved program engagement and better follow-through when CHWs are integrated into support efforts.
Presenter:
Alida Coutino, Network Coordinator, Area Agency on Aging of the Capital Area, Austin, TX
[biography]
Alida Coutino is a strategic public health professional and CHW Instructor advancing aging equity across Central Texas. As Network Coordinator for the Aging Services Council and ADRC, she leads digital inclusion efforts, cross-sector partnerships, and media outreach—bridging services for older adults through culturally grounded, trust-based, and community-driven solutions.
FT56) Championing Change: Advancing Aging Advocacy Through Grass Roots Media Engagement
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Unlock the power of media to amplify your aging advocacy! Whether you serve a rural community, a bustling city or a metropolitan hub, connecting with the press can feel daunting—but this seminar will show you how to turn challenges into opportunities. Discover demonstrated strategies to build strong, lasting media partnerships that elevate your message and expand your reach. Learn how to position yourself as the go-to expert journalists want to interview when aging issues make headlines. Through interactive conversations, you’ll gain practical tips, fresh ideas and innovative approaches to engage across platforms—from local news and radio to state and national outlets. Step out inspired, confident and prepared to transform your advocacy voice into a powerful force for change.
Presenter:
Carol Brown, Program Development & Advocacy Manager, WACOG's Area Agency on Aging, Yuma, AZ
[biography]
Carol is the Program Development and Advocacy Manager for the Western Arizona Council of Governments – Area Agency on Aging Region IV. Ms. Brown serves as lead coordinator and developer of resources for the Area Agency on Aging and its programs including managing public relations and advocacy campaigns.
FT57) Modernizing Our Meal Program in Warp-Speed Time (Because We Had To!)
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
One agency unexpectedly had to transition their entire meal service program in less than four weeks. Hear about the successes and pitfalls of our journey from July 2025 to January 2026 as we completely modernized our meal program!
Presenters:
Sherri Carson, Director of Healthy Living, Connections Area Agency on Aging, Council Bluffs, IA
[biography]
Sherri is the Director of Healthy Living at Connections AAA in Council Bluffs, IA. Sherri has been with the agency since 1993, serving in her current role since 2000.
Kelly Butts-Elston, CEO, Connections Area Agency on Aging, Council Bluffs, IA
[biography]
Kelly Butts-Elston is the CEO of Connections Area Agency on Aging serving 20 counties in western and southwestern Iowa. Kelly has worked at the agency for 23 years, serving as a division director until 2013 when she became the Associate Director before assuming her current role in February of 2017.
5:15 PM
5:45 PM
Fast-Track Sessions
FT59) Safeguarding Services, Strengthening Connections: Program Integrity for Aging and Disabled Services
Focus Area: Running Your Agency: Strategies to Strengthen Leadership, Systems and People
This session explores how the San Bernardino County Department of Aging and Adult Services–Public Guardian Program Integrity Unit protects vulnerable populations while reinforcing trust in services for older adults and people with disabilities. Participants will learn best practices in fraud prevention, documentation accuracy and compliance monitoring within In-Home Supportive Services. We will highlight how proactive program oversight reduces risk; ensures fair and effective service delivery; and strengthens social connections between agencies, providers and clients. The presentation will also highlight a specific strategy in working with the county’s Revenue Recovery Division to recover overpayments and further support fiscal responsibility. Attendees will leave with practical tools to implement integrity measures into daily operations, fostering transparency and accountability.
Presenters:
Jakob McCarthy, Deputy Director, San Bernardino County, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
Jakob McCarthy joined San Bernardino County in 2015, following a decade of public relations in the private sector. During his 11 years with the Department of Aging and Adult Services-Public Guardian, Mr. McCarthy has provided oversight for the Adult Protective Services, In-Home Supportive Services, and Area Agency on Aging programs.
Laura Mercuri Lopez, District Manager, San Bernardino County, San Bernardino, CA
[biography]
Laura Mercuri Lopez has 15 years of social services experience, joining the Department of Aging and Adult-Service Public Guardian in 2019. Ms. Mercuri Lopez has served as a social worker and supervisor for the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Program and is currently the Manager for the IHSS Program Integrity Unit.
FT60) Beyond Navigation: The Evolving Role of OAA Information Assistance
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Join us for a discussion of the role of information and referral as a system, service and process supporting access to information, services and supports for older adults, caregivers and people with disabilities. Hear about Aging and Disability Resource Center and No Wrong Door activities that have expanded approaches to accessing information for long-term services and supports. Learn what lies ahead for the professionalism of specialists in the information and referral/assistance field. Engage in a discussion of AI and how it is shaping approaches to serving a growing and increasingly complex audience of information seekers.
Presenter:
Bernice Hutchinson, Aging Services Program Specialist, U.S. Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC
[biography]
PCI, Required Session
FT62) Caregiver Burnout: Triage, Prevention and Wraparound Support
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Over the last several years, providing respite has been our main strategy to support family caregivers. However, after experiencing a revolving door of crisis situations, we took action to get ahead of caregiver burnout. We applied three primary solutions: 1) launching an aging life care planning and dementia navigation program; 2) collaborating with multiple agencies, providers,and community resources to create the Elder Care Workgroup to address service gaps; 3) designing a referral process with the crisis assistance teams for after-crisis care. Now caregivers are getting connected to resources earlier and experiencing broader community support throughout multiple phases of caregiving. These strategies rely upon collaboration and creatively leveraging current resources, opening the door to duplicating these ideas and services in other rural areas facing similar challenges.
Presenter:
Carla Dyment, Director, Flathead County Agency on Aging, Kalispell, MT
[biography]
Carla Dyment grew up in Bigfork, Montana and has been the Director for Flathead County Agency on Aging in Kalispell, Montana for four years. Carla previously worked as a Pastor of Family and Student Ministries for 15 years. Carla’s degrees include an MBA, MDIV, and DMIN.
FT63) Guide Drop! A New Resource for Host Agencies of Local Ombudsman Programs
Focus Area: Advancing Advocacy and Elder Justice
Join us as we launch a new guide just for you! This session is your front-row seat to a new resource designed specifically for AAAs) that host local ombudsman entities. Shaped by real-world experiences, our new guide draws directly on insights from host agency leaders (e.g., AAA Directors), state ombudsmen, and local ombudsman program representatives. The guide reviews the federal requirements of the ombudsman program, especially those for host agencies and representatives, and will assist host agency leadership in understanding the uniqueness of the program. Attendees will have the opportunity to share successes and challenges among peers, discuss management scenarios and learn about a new tool that can be used right away.
Presenter:
Amity Overall-Laib, Director of the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center, The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care, Washington, DC
[biography]
Prior to her current role she was a local long-term care ombudsman in Texas. She managed a program that served long-term care residents in twelve counties and was a member of the Board of Directors for the National Association of Local Long Term Care Ombudsmen.
FT64) Supporting Caregivers Navigating Challenging Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Alzheimer’s and Associated Conditions
Focus Area: Supporting Caregivers
Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS)—such as agitation, hallucinations, delusions, anxiety, sleep disturbances and personality changes—impact up to 90 percent of people living with Alzheimer’s and related cognitive decline. These symptoms are among the most difficult for caregivers to manage and often drive stress, crisis situations and avoidable transitions to higher levels of care. This session highlights Caregiver Action Network’s (CAN) national efforts to support caregivers facing NPS through practical tools, targeted education and peer-based learning. Participants will explore insights from CAN’s Navigating Alzheimer’s modules, caregiver narratives from the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Summit, and strategies rooted in real caregiver experiences. Attendees will gain replicable approaches to help families interpret symptoms, reduce distress and strengthen confidence—while improving coordination across AAAs, Aging and Disability Resource Centers, and community aging-services partners.
Presenters:
Marvell Adams Jr., Chief Executive Officer, Caregiver Action Network, Washington, DC
[biography]
Marvell Adams Jr. is the CEO of Caregiver Action Network, leading national efforts to improve life for millions of family caregivers. He founded W Lawson, advancing inclusive, supportive communities for older adults. An Eisner Prize Fellow, Marvell serves on multiple boards and lives in Baltimore with his family.
Nichole Goble, Director of Community Initiatives, Caregiver Action Network, Washington, DC
[biography]
Nichole Goble is Director of Community Initiatives at Caregiver Action Network, leading national programs, partnerships, and resources for family caregivers. With 15 years in nonprofit leadership, including roles at CAN, The Arc, and The National Alliance to Advance Adolescent Health, she champions inclusive, impactful support for caregivers nationwide.
FT65) Home Is Where I Belong: Elder Homelessness Workforce Training That Changes Practice
Focus Area: Aging Well in Community: Housing, Transportation and More
Home Is Where I Belong is a new, scalable training model that equips professionals to better serve older adults experiencing homelessness through narrative, trauma-informed and anti-ageist practice. Built from oral housing histories and a national photonarrative project, the program provides practical tools that improve empathy, communication and person-centered planning. Early pilots with more than 200 providers showed meaningful changes in how staff understood how to support clients, with participants reporting improved skills. The online course and implementation toolkit enable AAAs to adopt the model with immediate applicability. Attendees will hear from a AAA with direct experience using the method and learn how it can be replicated in AAAs and partners as we work to address the rapidly growing crisis of elders experiencing homelessness.
Presenters:
Gigi Amateau, Assistant Professor and Director, Person-Centered, Trauma-Informed Care Lab, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
[biography]
Gigi Amateau serves as a VCU Gerontology Assistant Professor for the Virginia Commonwealth University Department of Gerontology. She focuses on developing person-centered, trauma-informed approaches, capacity-building within the home and community-based services network, and teaching.
Amy Strite, President/CEO, The SPAN Center, Richmond, VA
[biography]
Amy Strite, MSW, LCSW, is President & CEO of The Span Center. With 30+ years of nonprofit leadership, she advances systems-level change through person-centered, trauma-informed, and equity-driven practices. Amy is known for strategic vision, strong partnerships, and mission-focused leadership, and serves on several statewide and regional boards.
Catherine MacDonald, Director of Community Engagement and Outreach, VCU Gerontology and the Virginia Center on Aging, Richmond, VA
[biography]
Catherine MacDonald is Director of Community Engagement and Outreach and Undergraduate Program with Virginia Commonwealth University’s Dept. of Gerontology and the Virginia Center on Aging. She currently teaches a course at VCU about ageism and diversity, and conducts community projects to change the way we think about aging.
Tuesday, July 21
7:30 AM
10:00 AM
Registration and Information Desk Open
7:30 AM
8:00 AM
Morning Refreshments
8:00 AM
9:30 AM
General Sessions
GS04) AAAs and AI: Understanding the AgeTech Landscape
The AgeTech market is booming and AAAs are flooded with AI options. Join us for this informative, exploratory and honest conversation that will help you make high-stakes decisions in the AgeTech space. This session will be a no-nonsense, leadership-level conversation about what AI in aging services actually is, what it can and cannot do, and what responsible adoption looks like at a AAA. We will explore the tension between the management logic of AI that reduces staff burden and the care logic that necessitates human judgment, intuition and connection. Join us to learn more about the unintended consequences of AI and leave the session with a practical evaluation framework that will assist you in vetting new AI tools that meet your needs for data collection, accountability structures, equity and organizational fit.
10:00 AM
11:00 AM
USAging New Board of Directors Meeting
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