Design for Aging Dignity

Developed a workplan for an age-friendly community process in Herkimer County through collaboration with local stakeholders.

Convened workgroups to identify and address key health priorities in Herkimer County, fostering collaborative action among stakeholders.

Increased lead screening in children and provided outreach and education to healthcare providers and parents through the Lead Free Mohawk Valley initiative.

Sponsored the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program to improve health outcomes for individuals with ongoing health conditions.

Sponsored the National Diabetes Prevention Program and Diabetes Self-Management Program to support chronic disease management in the community.

Provided support to the Mohawk Valley Diaper Bank to increase access to essential supplies for families in need.

Supported fellows in the New York State Public Health Corps Fellowship Program through training, education, and mentorship to strengthen public health capacity in Herkimer County.

Founded the first U.S. movement against ageism in response to forced retirement and continues to promote intergenerational collaboration as a core strategy for social justice.

Hosted virtual and national Days of Remembrance to honor lives lost in nursing homes during the pandemic and organizes ongoing events, including Transformation Tuesdays and coalition webinars, to advocate for systemic long-term care reform.

Engages in United Nations deliberations through Economic and Social Council consultative status, preparing annual reports and statements for the High Level Political Forum on ageing and human rights.

Advocates for a single-payer universal health care system, promotes peace and international human rights, and engages in environmental advocacy as part of its broader social justice mission.

Co-created and partners with the Girl Scouts of Greater New York on the “Age and Youth in Action” Patch program, offering workshops and collaborative projects that connect youth and older adults, with plans for national expansion.

Organizes a free monthly webinar series featuring global experts to address ageism, long-term care reform, and related social justice issues, including public conversations with notable figures such as Dr. Rosanne Leipzig.

Participates in the New York State Master Plan for Aging and has met with federal and state officials, including Senator Ron Wyden, to advocate for dignified aging, nursing home transformation, and broader social justice reforms.

Maintains a local network in New York City with named leadership and public contact information to support organizing and advocacy efforts.

Runs a program encouraging the public to send handmade cards to nursing home residents to reduce social isolation and affirm dignity.

Published a 2024 Legal Services Directory for older adults in New York City and provides a 6-step action plan for caregivers covering aging in place, long-term care, and end-of-life preparation.

Warns older adults about common scams including government impersonation, robocalls that record “yes” responses for fraud, and grandparent scams, providing actionable information to prevent financial exploitation.