NEMCSA, Region 9 AAA, and PVM Unveil PACE Northeast Michigan Initiative
Alpena, Michigan, January 10, 2024 – In a landmark collaboration, Lisa Bolen, Executive Director/CEO of the Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency (NEMCSA); Laurie Sauer, Director of Region 9 Area Agency on Aging (AAA), a Division of NEMCSA; and Roger Myers, CEO of Presbyterian Villages of Michigan (PVM), proudly announce the formation of PACE Northeast Michigan. This groundbreaking venture, structured as a new non-profit 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization, signifies an unparalleled commitment to enhancing senior care in the region.
Lisa Bolen, Executive Director/CEO of NEMCSA, shares, "Our partnership with PACE Northeast Michigan is an organic extension of our enduring dedication to communities in the region. Together, we aim to create a transformative impact on the lives of older adults, allowing them to age with dignity and independence."
PVM, with a rich legacy of serving seniors since 1945, is excited about collaborating with NEMCSA/Region 9 AAA to introduce PACE services to residents of northeast Michigan. Roger Myers, CEO of PVM, expressed, "PVM is thrilled to join forces with NEMCSA/Region 9 AAA in bringing PACE services to residents of northeast Michigan."
PACE Northeast Michigan, a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, will deliver a comprehensive scope of healthcare and supportive services, empowering qualifying older adults to age in place. The interdisciplinary team of health professionals will work closely with families, providing customized care to seniors facing challenging health conditions.
This unique initiative offers a welcome alternative to residing in a nursing facility, preserving dignity and enhancing the quality of life for individuals. Services will be delivered in homes, at the PACE Adult Day Health Center, and across the community. The PACE Center will house a medical clinic, therapy gym, and a day center, fostering wellness and socialization opportunities. Transportation will be provided to ensure seamless access to the PACE Center and essential appointments.
The appointment of Jeffery J. Meden, MHSA, as the Executive Director of PACE Northeast Michigan marks a crucial step forward. Effective January 15, 2024, Jeff brings a wealth of experience, having served as Vice President of the MyMichigan Medical Group (MMG) Northeast Michigan & Upper Peninsula. Jeff stated, "I am honored to lead PACE Northeast Michigan and look forward to making a positive impact on the lives of older adults in our community."
Upon securing final approvals from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), PACE Northeast Michigan aims to begin serving qualifying older adults in late 2024 or early 2025.
Stephanie Winslow, Executive Director for the PACE Association of Michigan, emphasized, "This collaboration is a significant stride toward transforming senior care in Michigan, especially considering the state's status as one of the fastest aging states in the country. PACE Northeast Michigan will undoubtedly make a lasting impact on the lives of older adults, addressing the unique challenges posed by Michigan's rapidly growing aging population."
About NEMCSA: NEMCSA is a private, nonprofit Community Action Agency, dedicated to delivering a diverse range of programs and services across its eleven core counties in northeast Michigan. Encompassing Alcona, Alpena, Arenac, Cheboygan, Crawford, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, and Presque Isle, NEMCSA extends its impact through the Region 9 Area Agency on Aging (AAA), which operates under the NEMCSA umbrella. Specifically focused on serving the senior population in Roscommon and the 11 counties listed above, the Region 9 AAA plays a vital role in enhancing the well-being of older adults. For detailed information on NEMCSA's extensive array of programs and services, please visit www.nemcsa.org.
About PVM: PVM is a non-profit, faith-based, aging services network that was founded in 1945. It serves over 7,500 seniors of all financial means and in diverse settings across Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Its Mission is “Guided by our Christian heritage, we serve all seniors creating new possibilities for quality living,” with a Vision of “We will continue to transform senior living and services, enhancing the communities we serve.” For more information, please visit www.pvm.org.
About the PACE Association of Michigan: The PACE Association of Michigan was established in 2015 and is a 501c(6) organization. There are 14 independent PACE organizations in 25 Michigan locations providing comprehensive services for seniors in partnership with a team of health care professionals. All PACE organizations share the same goal: improve the health and maintain the independence of older adults while honoring their desire to live in their community.