The SDAHO Team were special guest presenters for the Coalition on Aging monthly meeting, this past week. Members of the Coalition meet the third Tuesday of every month, September through May. Members currently are meeting both in-person and virtually, with 45 to 50 in attendance each month. This past week SDAHO was asked to visit with the Coalition on Aging members to share upcoming education opportunities, advocacy efforts and any upcoming events.
Michella Sybesma, VP of Education and Communications gave an overview on the role of the SDAHO’s Education Department, in addition to past, present, and upcoming educational opportunities and conferences SDAHO members and non-members can take advantage of. Conner Hickman, the Business Development Manager oversees SDAHO’s for profit arm, SDAHO Enterprises. This sector of the organization is a wholly owned subsidiary of SDAHO. Conner explained the mission behind SDAHO Enterprises, which is designed to bring value to the members of the association by providing relevant and timely solutions. Sarah Aker, Dir. Of Fiscal Policy for SDAHO provided an update on advocacy efforts this past legislative session and moving into the rest of the year. Sarah presented information on the latest medical marijuana implementation plans. In addition, attendees were presented with details regarding efforts to expand Medicaid in South Dakota and SDAHO’s involvement in a 14-member coalition, South Dakotans Decide Healthcare. Communications Manager, Stephanie Rissler shared details regarding SDAHO’s Healthcare hero campaign and shared stories of 3 healthcare hero recipients from this past year.
The Coalition on Aging group is made up of a network of professionals within senior services. Members represent a variety of organizations in the healthcare sector, including non-health related businesses. The mission of the organization is to serve the aging population by connecting professionals to educate our community. The Coalition is governed by a Board of Directors and has been serving the Sioux Falls area and members for over 25 years. Those interested in learning more about the Coalition on Aging can visit their website.
