Heart of the Matter Blog

I like things simple. Like the simple pleasure of a good nap, and a hot coffee on a cool morning. The simple gesture of a hug or smile from a friend, or little wave from a neighbor. And, the simple philosophy of the Golden Rule and just doing good in the world.

In my role with LeadingAge PA, I have the privilege of visiting member communities and meeting individuals who make a difference in the lives of older adults on a daily basis. However, no task has been more inspiring than meeting the 2021 Distinguished Service Award (DSA) winners!

Recently I told a colleague that in my career two of the main driving forces for success have been an openness to possibilities, and persistent gratitude for all the positives around me. As I transition from my role as president and CEO of LeadingAge PA back to the provider side, both forces are not only present for me, but for our team at the Association.

Emerging from the pandemic, senior living organizations face a heightened cross-current of conditions, combining pandemic-related factors with long-term trends. Many of these factors have been accelerated by the crisis – impacting marketing and sales, staffing and operations, and financial performance and position.

It is said there is strength in numbers. That premise is the foundation LeadingAge PA builds our advocacy upon, for when we come together and advocate for change, the message is amplified to reach more lawmakers, carrying the potential for more powerful results.

Our members have shown that when facing the challenge of confronting the senior services workforce crisis, there is power in numbers: 110 of our provider member organizations have come together to implement a bold new strategy to positively influence and promote senior living careers in Pennsylvania.

It was a pleasure watching the 2020 Olympics recently. In addition to televising the action, there were many features that told you more about the athletes and their backgrounds. Some had overcome tremendous adversity during their journeys to become Olympic athletes. Their resilience to prevail over life's challenges is admirable.