Service Advisory Council & Strategic Planning Committee Meeting Minutes Tuesday, March 12th, 2024 | 10:00 – 11:00am In Person/Via Zoom Service Advisory Council Strategic Planning Committee Staff Gary Zalas, Chair P Tonya McDonald A Shernita Bethea A Steve Zollos, CEO P Brenda Cobb, Vice- Chair P Suzanne Puryear A Chanda Chann P Wanda Rivers P Mark Bragg P Larhonda Ross P Greg Grootendorst A Charnitta Waters,
Sdo P
Madeline Dunstan P Rachael Trussel A Bob Holt P Monika Zajac- Lorke, EA P Nila Holleman A Caryn West P Fran Richardson P George Jones P Ariane Williams A
Time Description Presenter 10:00 – 10:05am Welcome & Call to Order The Service Advisory Council and Strategic Planning Committee Meeting was convened by Gary Zalas. Gary commenced by recognizing all Service Advisory Council and Strategic Planning Committee members and extending a warm welcome to two new individuals: Fran Richardson and Chanda Chann. Each member then provided a brief introduction. Gary Zalas, Chair 10:05 – 10:10am Gary Zalas requested a motion to approve the consent agenda, which included the Service Advisory Council & Strategic Planning Committee Meeting Minutes dated 11/30/23. Bob Holt motioned for approval, seconded by Chanda Chann, and all members were in favor.
Gary Zalas, Chair
10:10 – 10:20am Steve introduced a new agenda item: Public Comment. Any member of the public wishing to address matters related to the older adult population had the opportunity to do so, provided they had registered in advance. The Senior Services website has been updated with the Board of Directors and Service Advisory Council schedule for future reference. Steve encouraged participants to verify any changes a day or two before each meeting. Gary Zalas took a moment to express his appreciation for the Charity Gala held on March 1st. He commended the entire team for their efforts in organizing the event. Steve provided an update on the Gala, stating that we had exceeded our financial goal. He emphasized the success of the event, highlighting the caliber of guests, entertainment, venue, and catering. Steve urged participants to complete a short post-gala survey and to suggest potential venues for next year. He then discussed the Annual Meeting held on January 26th at the Town Center City Club, noting the venue's suitability for our needs. Steve also acknowledged the distinguished guests in attendance, including the Mayors of Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Portsmouth, as well as Congressman Bobby Scott.
Steve Zollos
Ceo
10:20 – 10:30am Monika began her report by announcing the Caregivers Recognition Event at Norfolk Botanical Garden on May 1st. Similar to last year, the event aimed to celebrate family caregivers with a program featuring presentations by Dr. Aaron Blight, Elder Law Q&A sessions, gift bags, raffles, meals, and an afternoon at the Garden. Monika encouraged Council and Committee members to promote the event. She then provided information about the Area Plan and the upcoming Public Hearing, scheduled for Tuesday, June 4th at 1 pm at Senior Services headquarters. Monika emphasized the importance of member attendance at the Public Hearing, which also serves as the spring Service Advisory Council and Strategic Planning Committee meeting. A public survey would be released prior to the hearing, and assistance in distributing it would be appreciated.
Monika Zajac- Lorke, EA 10:30- 11:00am Steve invited participants for updates from the community.
Gary Zalas shared insights on the Project Lifesaver initiative in partnership with the Virginia Beach Police Department. Project Lifesaver, a national program, utilizes proactive electronic tracking to assist in locating individuals with Alzheimer's disease, Down syndrome, or autism spectrum disorder. VBPD's trained officers and specialized tracking equipment aid in locating missing persons enrolled in the program. Notably, enrollment in Project Lifesaver is free, with all operational costs covered by donations ($400 per person). This program is also available in other jurisdictions within Hampton Roads.
All Charnitta Waters then provided her community update, noting the increasing demand for services. She highlighted the growing waitlist for Home Delivered Meals, heightened interest in congregate sites and transit services, and an uptick in demand for respite hours. Additionally, there is a concerning rise in individuals at risk of homelessness. Chanda sought assistance for one of her clients in this matter, to which Charnitta provided valuable information.
Cary West continued by reporting on legal matters. She observed the limited attendance at Free Will Clinics, particularly among lower-income seniors who may not prioritize end-of-life planning. Caryn also mentioned her involvement with Legal Aid and the provision of free legal services to certain groups of seniors, such as cancer patients.
Fran Richardson emphasized the importance of building awareness in the community, sharing her experience of initially being unaware of the organization before being approached to serve on the board.
Bob Holt discussed the collaboration with Old Dominion University, which provides health services through a Health Van visiting Franklin regularly. In response to Steve's inquiry, Bob agreed to explore the possibility of ODU utilizing clinical space at Hayden Village Center.
Madeline Dunstan reported on new initiatives at EVMS. EVMS is collaborating with ODU's Nursing Faculty, operating the Health Van as a teaching opportunity for nursing students. She also mentioned ongoing residency assignments for graduating med students and the involvement of EVMS students in senior- oriented programs. Additionally, Madeline highlighted upcoming events and EVMS's transition to the State system. Steve inquired about the geriatric leadership at ODU, with Madeline recommending Doctor Castillo. She mentioned that the integration with ODU is expected to be finalized by July 1st.
Mark Bragg emphasized housing and disability issues as the most pressing concerns for older adults.
George Jones reported on the Treehealth organization within EVMS, which provides medical assistance to homeless individuals. They are collaborating with Senior Services Homeless Department staff, including Fatima Tomlin and Linda McPherson.
11am Adjourn With no further questions Gary Zalas asked for a motion to adjourn. The motion was given by Caryn West, seconded by Fran Richardson and all were in favor,
Gary Zalas Respectfully submitted by Monika Zajac-Lorke, EA 3/12/2023