June 21, 2024 —Ithaca, NY — In celebration of Pride Month, we at Kendal at Ithaca, a leading life plan community rooted in Quaker values, are thrilled to announce that we have received a Platinum SAGECare Credential for the second consecutive year. This prestigious credential is a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing an inclusive and affirming environment for LGBTQ+ older adults.
SAGECare awarded us with its highest-level credential after more than 80% of our staff completed comprehensive training on LGBTQ+ aging issues. This accomplishment underscores our dedication to creating an inclusive and welcoming space for all residents, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
The SAGECare credential process evaluates organizations based on staff training completion standards. By exceeding the required 80% completion rate, we have demonstrated our commitment to promoting a diverse and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ older adults.
Our participation in the SAGECare training program, specifically the “Respected and Whole” course, has been instrumental in this achievement. This training equipped our staff with strategies to prevent bias and create inclusive services for LGBTQ+ older adults. It also provided insights into conflict resolution, programming ideas, and policies to ensure that everyone feels respected and safe. Through this program, our team has gained a deeper understanding of how an inclusive environment can improve the health and happiness of both staff and residents.
In alignment with our Quaker roots and values, Kendal strives to create a safe, non-judgmental space for all individuals to be their true selves. We believe that creating this environment is our shared responsibility and we look forward to our continued partnership with SAGECare, in support of this effort.
As we celebrate Pride Month, we recognize the importance of this achievement and the impact it has on our community. This milestone highlights our commitment to fostering a place where everyone feels valued and included.
SAGECare Training
SAGE Care offers cultural competency training to equip service providers with the knowledge to serve LGBTQ+ older adults.
About SAGECare
SAGECare is a fee-for-service training and consulting division of SAGE (1978), the nation’s oldest and largest non-profit that advocates and provides services for LGBTQ+ older adults. SAGECare provides LGBTQ+ competency training and consulting to service providers, fostering a more inclusive and understanding approach to aging issues within the LGBTQ+ community.