As we prepare for the MCOA conference next week, we thought it a good time to share some of our current initiatives:
- Continue the development and support of the regional (multi-town) operation of programs to ensure access to services (e.g., outreach, transportation) as well as enhancing administrative capability in small/rural communities, especially the 50 towns in the Commonwealth with no paid COA staff.
- Train COA board members regarding the network and roles and responsibilities within their own communities, and their relationships to nonprofit fundraising organizations, e.g., “Friends of the COA” groups as well as possible other fund raising.
- Work with the Executive Office of Transportation to coordinate and support multi-community long distance transportation programs, particularly for medical needs.
- Promote the construction and development of senior centers large enough and with sufficient amenities to meet the service needs and interests of the “baby boomer” generation.
- Encourage and support development of training and programs that address elder mental health needs and support staff and volunteers in recognizing same.
- Encourage and support more widespread use of "dedicated" volunteer management personnel.
- Promoting the use of standardized software programs to provide more uniform data collection, reporting and management procedures.
// Emmett S.
Current Initiatives: COA Program Manager