MORGANTON – Grace Ridge is committed to meeting the needs of all older adults, including the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender population. As part of that commitment, the community recently became one of just five retirement communities in North Carolina to earn a SAGECare credential for successfully completing the training program for LGBTQ+ cultural competency.
“We’re pleased to demonstrate with this certification our inclusive environment and dedication to serve a growing population of LGBTQ+ adults,” said Chris Romick, executive director at Grace Ridge. “No one should be discriminated against or feel isolated. Our staff is trained to foster a supportive environment.”
North Carolina is one of 26 states that doesn’t prohibit housing discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
The New York-based Advocacy & Services for LGBTQ+ Elders (SAGE) organization established its SAGECare training program for senior housing and senior care providers, centered on LGBTQ+ cultural competency. Grace Ridge has joined the almost 300 senior care providers nationwide who’ve received the SAGECare credential.
“We’re thrilled that Grace Ridge has earned their SAGECare credential and is committed to creating an inclusive community for LGBTQ+ residents, as well as a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ family members of other residents,” said SAGE Senior Director of National Projects Tim Johnston, Ph.D.
SAGECare involves a four-hour intensive training session for upper management and one-hour in-person training programs for frontline caregivers and team members, as well as ongoing training and support. The training covers many topics, including:
• The needs of LGBTQ+ seniors
• Ways to reduce and respond to bias behavior
• Overview of federal protections
• Best practices to help create a supportive environment for current and future LGBTQ+ residents
To learn more about Grace Ridge, visit www.graceridge.org or call 828-580-8300.
