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    Virtual Education Showcase

    The Florida Council on Aging is pleased to announce the launch of the FCOA Virtual Education Showcase!  The monthly webinar will address topics of interest to FCOA members, partners and people working with, or advocating on behalf of, older adults.  Webinars will be held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month and will be about 1 hour long.

    If you are interested in sponsoring or presenting, please contact us at [email protected]. 

    June 9, 2026:

    REGISTER HERE

    Session: It's More Than a Light Bill

    Session Description: When most people think about a light bill, they see a number at the bottom and a due date. But that bill represents much more than electricity, it reflects how we live and use the appliances in our home. We will also discuss changes or upgrades we can make the reduce energy usage, increase comfort and make better decisions to save money.

    Speaker:

    Melvin A. Philpot is a Senior Products & Services Manager for Duke Energy in Lake Mary Florida. He has been employed with the company for 44 years. He is currently the Program Manager for the nationally renowned "Neighborhood Energy Saver Program."

    May 12, 2026

    Session: Medicaid Matters: Empowering Lives through Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS)

    Session Description: This presentation will walk through why Long-Term Services and Supports matter in Florida, who is served, how members enroll, and the vital role care management plays in supporting independence and quality of life for vulnerable adults.

    Speakers:

    Estela Cedeno, MS, Associate Director for Humana's Florida Medicaid Long-Term Care Program, brings over 17 years of healthcare leadership experience. She has led initiatives to improve care quality, strengthen compliance, and help ensure members receive the right care at the right time.

    Jessica Miller, RN, Associate Director for Humana's Florida Medicaid Long-Term Care program; with extensive leadership experience as a registered nurse, she advances patient-centered care, supports innovative coaching strategies, connects with diverse individuals, and strives to improve outcomes for patients and care teams.

    April 14, 2026

    Session: The FSU Aging Scorecard

    Session Description: In this webinar, Dr. Carr will provide an overview of the newly launched FSU Aging Scorecard, which was developed by a team of experts at FSU at the Claude Pepper Center. This session will provide an overview of what the scorecard offers, and how it can be used as a tool for helping evaluate how Florida is preparing for a rapidly aging population and areas for growth and improvement.

    Speaker:

    Dawn C. Carr is Mildred and Claude Pepper Professor of Sociology and Director of the Claude Pepper Center at Florida State University. Carr's work seeks to enhance the health and wellbeing of older adults and their families and identify resources and interventions that allow people to remain active and engaged members of society for as long as possible. Prior to joining FSU, Dr. Carr was a researcher at Stanford Center on Longevity, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, and a researcher at the Scripps Gerontology Center.

    March 10, 2026

    Session: Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation of Vulnerable Adults

    Session Description: This presentation raises awareness of the prevalence and impact of abuse, neglect, and exploitation (ANE). Attendees will learn who is considered a vulnerable adult, how to recognize signs, symptoms, and risk factors of ANE, and will explore practical steps for prevention and intervention, including Florida reporting standards, to help support vulnerable adults in the communities where they live, work, and play.

    Speaker:

    Sharon Sykes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of Florida, Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP), and National Certified Case Manager (CCM) with more than 21 years of experience across diverse behavioral health and healthcare settings.  She currently serves at Sunshine Health as a Long-Term Care Senior Clinical Provider Trainer, where she delivers weekly trainings to long-term care providers and community partners. Her trainings cover a wide range of clinical topics, with a focus on behavioral health, long-term care, and integrated care. Sharon holds a Bachelor of Science in Social Psychology, a Master of Education in Adult Education, and a Master of Science in Social Work

    February 10, 2026

    Session: More Seniors are Aging Solo

    Session Description: This presentation reviews the challenges of aging solo in the USA - and resources to help mitigate these challenges.  We will consider the impact of living arrangements, legal resources, safety concerns, social connection and resilience for the senior who is aging solo.  The presentation includes potential resources nationally and suggestions for local support. 

    Speaker:

    Rev. Carolyn Richar, BSN, RN, MDiv, CHPN is a Nursing Standards Director with Chapters Health.  Born and raised in Florida, Carolyn received a BSN and MDiv from Emory University in Atlanta GA.  Carolyn is a licensed RN since 1982 and an ordained minister since 1985.  Her work history includes working as a legislative correspondent in the US House of Representatives and US Senate on healthcare issues, being a nursing home administrator, and hospice clinical roles for over 25 years.   

    January 13, 2026

    Session: Join us for a discussion on The Magic of your Mission: Aligning Brand Identity with Advocacy Goals

    Session Description: The Magic of Your Mission explores how aging-focused organizations can clearly define and express their brand identity to strengthen advocacy, build trust, and inspire action. This webinar will show how aligning mission, messaging, and visual identity empowers leaders to communicate with clarity, consistency, and impact across stakeholders and policy audiences.

    Speaker:

    Jacob W Winge is a Fifth Generation Floridian and a civic leader with nearly two decades of leadership in strategic planning, fundraising, marketing, and business development across Higher Education, Government, Eco-Tourism, and Healthcare. At TLC Marketing & Creative Services leads communication campaigns and outreach efforts for a variety of businesses and nonprofits. Jacob has facilitated nearly six dozen strategic planning, fundraising, communications, and advocacy workshops in addition to many volunteer trainings, dozens of board development and executive leadership coaching sessions. As a tested leader in local government and advocacy, Jacob has coordinated hundreds of legislative meetings, roundtables, townhalls and planned numerous rallies and trainings for organizations throughout Florida, Wisconsin, Georgia, South Carolina, and Washington D.C.

    He is a former Board President of the Friends of the Collier County Museums, the Florida College System Student Government Association, East Naples Kiwanis, and East Naples Civic & Commerce among Board service with over thirty nonprofits, chambers, and government advisory boards. He has received multiple awards and honors for his leadership and contributions, such as the "40 Under 40" by Gulfshore Business Magazine, the FCSSGA Bob Graham Lifetime Achievement Award, the Daughter's of the American Revolution Community Service Award, and the FCSAA Leadership Enhancement Award.

    Jacob lives in East Naples with his wife Alexandria and daughter Wren

    ___________________________Additional Information Below_____________________________

    Non-Profit Finance Webinar Series - REGISTRATION

    Sessions brought to you by: 

        &   

    SPEAKERS:

             

    Corinne LaRoche, CPA, Partner, James Moore & Co. - Corinne’s heart lies in serving nonprofit organizations to provide audit, outsourced accounting, CFO/controllership and tax services. A CPA with nearly 15 years of experience and the leader of James Moore’s Nonprofit Services team, she’s a trusted authority on OMB Super Circular and the Florida Single Audit Act and a certified member of the AICPA’s Not-For-Profit section. Outside of the office, she serves as the treasurer of the Community Foundation of North Central Florida and was previously treasurer for Catholic Charities.

          

    Ryan Wilkerson, Service Manager, James Moore Technology Solutions - Ryan has over 20 years of public-facing customer service experience spanning a wide range of industries. At James Moore Technology Services, he performs hardware and software updates, cybersecurity assessments, the management of inventory and licensing of all IT assets, and computer and equipment replacements. He also performs a variety of other tasks as necessary. Ryan’s certifications include CompTIA A+, Microsoft MCP and Novell CNA.

    April 8, 2025

    Budgeting for Success: A Forward-Thinking Approach for Nonprofits
    Is your nonprofit struggling to make ends meet by year-end? Don't let insufficient budgeting practices catch you off guard. Join Corinne LaRoche, CPA and partner at James Moore & Co. and leader of the firm's Nonprofit Services Team, as she discusses nonprofit budgeting and forecasting best practices. Corinne will explain how to move beyond historical cost-based budgeting and adopt a forward-thinking approach that aligns with your organization's goals. By  knowing the importance of regular budget reviews and how to spot potential financial issues before they become critical, you can help your nonprofit stay financially healthy throughout the year. 
     
    June 10, 2025
    Cybersecurity Best Practices: Safeguarding Nonprofits in the Age of AI
    Strong cybersecurity is essential for nonprofits handling sensitive donor, financial, and operational data. While AI is rapidly transforming the way organizations operate, it also introduces new risks if not properly governed. This session, led by James Moore Technology Services operations director Ryan Wilkerson, will focus on core cybersecurity best practices—including data protection, access controls, and threat prevention—while addressing how AI adoption impacts security. Learn how to build a resilient cybersecurity framework that protects your nonprofit from cyber threats while ensuring responsible AI usage that aligns with your mission.
     
    October 14, 2025
    Beyond the Numbers: How to Read and Use Your Nonprofit Financial Statements
    Finding the right CPA firm is crucial for your nonprofit's financial health, and an effective request for proposal (RFP) is the first step. Join Corinne LaRoche to learn how to craft an RFP that attracts top-tier candidates and clearly outlines your organization's needs. A CPA and partner at James Moore & Co. (and the leader of the firm’s Nonprofit Services Team), Corinne will cover the essential elements to include in your RFP — from defining the project scope and services needed to specifying your evaluation criteria and proposal specifications. Arm yourself with the knowledge to confidently evaluate proposals, select the perfect CPA partner, and set your nonprofit up for financial success.
     
    December 9, 2025
    Crafting the Perfect RFP: Finding the Right CPA for Your Nonprofit
    Finding the right CPA firm is crucial for your nonprofit's financial health, and an effective request for proposal (RFP) is the first step. Join Corinne LaRoche to learn how to craft an RFP that attracts top-tier candidates and clearly outlines your organization's needs. A CPA and partner at James Moore & Co. (and the leader of the firm’s Nonprofit Services Team), Corinne will cover the essential elements to include in your RFP — from defining the project scope and services needed to specifying your evaluation criteria and proposal specifications. Arm yourself with the knowledge to confidently evaluate proposals, select the perfect CPA partner, and set your nonprofit up for financial success.
     
     
     

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    November 11, 2025

    Session: Join us for a discussion on Creating a New Narrative for Ageism
    Session Description: In this session, we’re rewriting the story of ageism—challenging old assumptions and embracing new perspectives. What if, instead of focusing on deficits, we embraced the strengths, resilience, and wisdom of older adults? Together, we will discuss strength-based, culturally responsive, and technology-enhanced counseling interventions designed to foster empowerment and well-being in aging populations. This presentation offers practical insights for reframing aging as a dynamic, meaningful life stage. And participants will leave with tools to drive systemic change and enhance mental well-being for older adults through ethical, inclusive, and forward-thinking approaches.

    Speaker

    Yolanda Loften Sims, M.Ed., Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, is a professional school counselor and doctoral candidate in Counselor Education and Supervision at National Louis University. She promotes mindfulness, cultural humility, and resilience in future counselors while integrating personal narratives into broader social contexts. Her work on Positive Aging emphasizes strength-based approaches that honor resilience, purpose, and intergenerational connection among older adults. As a military spouse, she brings unique insight into veterans’ experiences. Her research centers on Positive Aging, strength-based counseling for older adults, and advancing equity, empowerment, and resilience among women of color in the military.

    July 2025

    Date of Event: Tuesday, July 8th, 2025 from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (ET)

    Webinar Title: Parkinson's Disease: The Essentials 

    Session Description:  PD: The Essentials is a free educational program offered by the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) that provides an overview of Parkinson’s disease (PD), covering key information about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and managing the disease for newly diagnosed individuals or care partners seeking a basic understanding.

    Presented By:

    Desirae Mearns, MBA is the Program Director for the Florida Chapter of the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA). She is responsible for education, support, and community building for all Floridians and their loved ones impacted by PD. Her career began on the Elder Helpline for the Area Agency on Aging of Palm Beach and the Treasure Coast Inc, promoted shortly after to the SHINE Director, she used these skills to successfully obtain her Master of Business Administration from FAU in 2018, and is passionate about the state’s seniors services as a 3rd generation Floridian.

    May 2025 

    Date of Event: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (ET)

    Webinar Title:  Flip the Script – Aging, Education, and the Power of Food

    Session Description:  Join us for an engaging conversation in celebration of Older Americans Month, presented in partnership with TRIO Community Meals and aging leaders across Florida. This webinar will explore how nutrition education can empower older adults, foster connection, and support reshaping the narrative around aging.  This panel-style session features voices from across the state who are advancing creative, education-focused approaches in their communities. Together, we’ll discuss how food can be more than a meal—it can be a pathway to dignity, purpose, and independence.  Attendees will leave with real-world insights and practical ideas to bring back to their programs.

    Presented By:  

    • Wendy Ford, President, Osceola Council on Aging
    • Josh Newby, President & CEO, Council on Aging of West Florida
    • Blair Mize, MS, RDN, LDN, Registered Dietitian, TRIO Community Meals
    • Scott Ball, EVP of Strategic Accounts, TRIO Community Meals

    Moderated By:  

    Tristin Perry, Director of Marketing, TRIO Community Meals

    Sponsored By:  

    JANUARY 2025

    Date of Event: Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (ET)

    Webinar Title: Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in Adults: Insights into Disease and Vaccination

    Session Description:  The Florida Council on Aging in coordination with the #RiskLessDoMore Campaign, and the FAMU College of Nursing present a webinar to provide information to the Aging Network about the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in adults and the importance of vaccination in at-risk populations.  Join us as Dr. Westbrook-Stewart shares information about how the disease is contracted, how to protect yourself and why vaccination is important.  Each year, an estimated 100,000–150,000 adults ages 60 and older in the United States are hospitalized due to RSV.  Adults at highest risk for severe RSV disease include:

    • Adults ages 75 and older
      • Adults with chronic heart or lung disease
        • Adults with weakened immune systems
          • Adults with certain other underlying medical conditions
            • Adults living in nursing homes

            Presented By:  

             

            Dr. Westbrook-Stewart is an Assistant Professor at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) School of Nursing. She is a Board-Certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and has a combined work experience of 24 years in the nursing profession. She began her nursing career at the young age of 17 as a Licensed Practical Nurse at Blanche Ely High School in Pompano Beach, Florida in the year 2000. She entered her passion as a nurse educator in 2010 at Gadsden Technical Institute, Gadsden Center for Health Education, as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Instructor. 

            She is a graduate from Florida A&M University School of Nursing with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and has served in her career as a nurse administrator in various roles, most notably as a Director of Nursing (DON) for 12 years. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of Phoenix and earned both her Doctor of Nurse Practice (DNP) and Post-Graduate Certification with a focus in Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (PGC-AGNP) from South University. She has held a certification as a Certified Director of Nursing and currently holds a certification as a Wound Care Specialist (WCC) with The National Alliance of Wound Care and Ostomy.

            PowerPoint Presentation

            Topic: Elders and the Baker Act             Presentation Slides

            Session Description: What is the Baker Act? What does the Florida Statute say about use of the Baker Act on older adults and/or people with dementia?   How is the Baker Act being used in long term care settings?  What advocacy is needed to support people with dementia from being improperly committed?  What updates has the Florida Legislature made to help protect people with dementia or brain injury from misuse of the Baker Act? How can Advance Mental Health Directives or Psychiatric Advance Directives be used in advance of a mental health crisis? Join FCOA on April 12th where we will address these questions and more.

            Presenter: Martha Lenderman, MSW, Consultant, Lenderman & Associates

             

            Martha retired after 30 years of service to the State and served at one time as the state’s Baker Act director.  Martha has consulted since 1996, primarily related to the Baker Act and Marchman Act.  She:
            • Assisted the Legislature in the 1996 rewrite of the Baker Act and recently assisted in writing amendments to the law.
            • Wrote the Florida Administrative Rules governing the Baker Act,
            • Developed the model Baker Act and Marchman Act forms,
            • Wrote the state’s Baker Act and Marchman Act Handbooks.
            • Developed the Baker Act survey instruments for DCF/AHCA
            • Assisted FDLE with implementing firearm restriction legislation, and
            • Wrote the Baker Act Benchguide for judges posted on the Florida Supreme Court website.
            Martha served as a member of the 1999 Florida Supreme Court Commission on Fairness and six years as a member of the Florida Supreme Court Taskforce on Mental Health and Substance Abuse.  She works with courts, hospitals, law enforcement agencies and professional associations throughout the state on the appropriate use of the Baker Act and serves as an expert witness in litigation.