Director Spotlight – Vivienne Armstrong

by Vivienne Armstrong, Director

Initially, I was referred to Ed-U-CARE by a fellow nurse. I had recently retired and the opportunity to volunteer and learn about Compassion Fatigue really caught my interest. That was 5 years ago and I still volunteer and serve on the Board of Directors.

I have had the fulfilling opportunity to volunteer with many outstanding volunteers and learn about Compassion Fatigue. I have personally applied what I learned when I became a caregiver to my spouse this year.

Also, through my volunteer work with Ed-U-CARE’s Bridge Building Network, I had the opportunity to become a certified trainer by Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders, or SAGE. SAGE is the nation’s oldest and largest LGBT nonprofit. Now, as a trainer, I teach health and social service providers about the cultural aspects of LGBT aging so they can provide welcoming and inclusive services for LGBT older adults and their loved ones. Organizations that achieve the bronze, silver, gold, or platinum level of SAGECare credentials are positioned to attract the growing numbers of LGBT older adults.

I really appreciate how SAGE’s research and other information is incorporated into Ed-U-CARE’s Bridge Building programs. These programs provide a way for members of the LGBT community and health care providers to learn and discuss various issues affecting older LGBT persons. I have enjoyed seeing this program grow!