LeadingAge PA Launches 'Careers to Love PA' Campaign to Bolster Aging Services Workforce
CareerstoLovePA.org identifies rewarding careers in aging services, connects people to local job openings
MECHANICSBURG, Pa. (Aug. 15, 2022) – LeadingAge PA, an association representing more than 360 aging services providers across the state, today launched its second annual Careers to Love PA campaign to raise the profile of careers in the growing field of senior care.
Coming on the heels of a historic Medicaid funding increase in the 2022-23 state budget, the Careers to Love PA campaign sets out to attract job seekers to careers in the field and connect those interested in learning more with providers in their local communities. The funding increase was intended, in part, to help nursing homes and aging services providers invest in their workforces and pursue their missions to provide high-quality care for older adults.
“Now’s the time to start, or return to, your career in aging services,” said Garry Pezzano, president and CEO of LeadingAge PA. “As the senior population in Pennsylvania continues to grow, professionals in this field are increasingly needed and valued. Your job security and growth opportunities are strong, and your ability to make an impact through compassionate, expert caregiving is essential. These truly are Careers to Love—now more than ever.”
Erin McDermott, LeadingAge PA's director of workforce solutions, said “LeadingAge PA’s member communities have impressive career development programs that often go unnoticed. CNA training opportunities, education reimbursement, leadership development and a mission-driven workplace are all excellent reasons to go into the field. Plus, you can choose your own path. Not all jobs in aging services are in direct care."
Although progress has been made, challenges related to aging services workforce development persist at the state and federal level. For example, the temporary nurse aide (TNA) program—a program started during the pandemic and terminated in June—struggled to get interested workers certified due to a lack of RN proctors, in addition to other administrative hurdles. LeadingAge PA continues to advocate to make careers in aging services more accessible and desirable.
“We took a good first step in addressing these immense challenges with the passing of the state budget last month,” Pezzano said. “But there’s much more work to do. High-quality providers employ high-quality, dedicated staff, but they need more. Careers to Love PA is just one way we’re spreading the word.”
The Careers to Love PA campaign will run from Aug. 15 – Oct. 31 on digital platforms across the state. To learn more and search for jobs in your zip code, visit CareersToLovePA.org.
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About LeadingAge PA
LeadingAge PA is a trade association representing 360+ high-quality senior housing, health care and community services across the commonwealth. These providers serve more than 75,000 older Pennsylvanians and employ over 50,000 dedicated caregivers on a daily basis. Services our members offer include Life Plan Communities/Continuing Care Retirement Communities, skilled nursing communities, assisted living residences, personal care homes, and affordable senior housing. LeadingAge PA advocates on behalf of our members at the state and local levels to influence positive change and affect a healthy vision for the delivery of quality, affordable and ethical care for Pennsylvania’s seniors. For more information, visit www.LeadingAgePA.org.
Media Contact:
Katie Andreano
Senior Director of Marketing & Communications
cell: 973-865-1742