The Power of Belonging: Insights from On Aging 2026
From April 20-23, 2026, Senior Services staff members Kristen Jones and Katrina Salisbury represented our agency at the On Aging 2026 National Conference in Atlanta, GA.
Hosted by the American Society on Aging (ASA), this event is the nation’s largest multisector gathering of professionals dedicated to the field of aging. This year’s theme, The Power of Belonging, explored how we can dismantle barriers to connection and foster communities where every aging adult, regardless of their background, is valued and supported.
Navigating Challenges with Compassion
The conference addressed the sobering reality of the current landscape: when budgets are cut, vital services diminish. In sessions with colleagues from across the country, the shared grief over national funding cuts was palpable. A collective, heavy discomfort remains regarding how to continue meeting the needs of seniors. As one of the most vulnerable populations, this is especially difficult given these financial challenges.
Bringing Hope to Life in Central Washington
Despite these national challenges, the team returned with a clear, renewed vision for the work performed across the nine counties served in Central Washington. The most impactful takeaway was a call to action: The agency must step into the challenges ahead with ears toward the community and hearts open to innovation.
Moving into the next year, both the AmeriCorps Senior Companions and Volunteer Services programs are focused on:
- Intentional Connections: Moving beyond "service" to true relationship building.
- Restoring Dignity: Ensuring that those who are often forgotten remain at the forefront of program growth.
- Creating Belonging: Utilizing every interaction to combat the epidemic of social isolation.
Joining the Journey
The community is invited to be part of this mission as these insights are put into practice. For more information, or to explore collaboration opportunities, please contact Katrina Salisbury, Senior Services Lead for Senior Companions and Volunteer Services.
