NOGA March 2026 Meeting Recap: A Meaningful Conversation on Social Work, Aging, and Community Support

NOGA March 2026 Meeting Recap

NOGA members gathered in March for an engaging and thoughtful conversation centered on the role of social workers in aging services. This month’s program featured a panel of experienced social workers who shared real insight into the challenges older adults are facing today, along with the critical role they play in helping seniors and families navigate complex systems of care.

The discussion touched on many of the issues professionals across our field see every day, including healthcare navigation, housing concerns, access to benefits, and the growing need for support services that are both compassionate and practical. Panelists spoke honestly about the barriers seniors encounter and the importance of advocacy, coordination, and relationship-building in helping individuals receive the care they need.

Real Conversations About Real Challenges

One of the strongest themes from the panel was the emotional weight carried by both seniors and their families when difficult care decisions arise. Social workers are often the professionals helping families work through differing opinions, caregiver burnout, and uncertainty about next steps.

The conversation also highlighted the importance of understanding community resources and recognizing that many valuable services remain underused simply because families do not know they exist or do not know how to access them. Attendees walked away with a deeper appreciation for the behind-the-scenes work social workers do every day to support dignity, safety, and better outcomes for older adults.

Why This Program Mattered

Programs like this remind us why NOGA exists. Bringing professionals together for education, networking, and meaningful discussion strengthens our shared ability to serve older adults across Northwest Ohio. The March meeting was a great example of how conversation can lead to greater understanding, stronger collaboration, and renewed respect for the work being done across the aging network.

Thank You to Our Members, Panelists, and Supporters

We are grateful to everyone who attended the March meeting and helped make the morning so meaningful. Thank you to our panelists for sharing your time, experience, and insight. Your honesty and expertise made this program especially impactful.

We are also deeply thankful for the members, sponsors, and organizations who continue to support NOGA’s mission and help make these educational and networking opportunities possible throughout the year.

Thank You to Our 2026 Sponsors

NOGA’s work would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Their investment helps strengthen professional connections, educational opportunities, and advocacy efforts throughout our region. We are proud to recognize and thank the following 2026 sponsors.

Gold Sponsors

Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio

FirstLight Home Care

Trilogy Health Services, including:Lakes of MonclovaLakes of SylvaniaGenoa Retirement VillageThe Willows at Bowling Green

Silver Sponsors

Arista Home Care Solutions, including CareConnect and Orange Transport

CHI Living Communities, including:The Gardens of St. FrancisFranciscan Care CenterSt. Clare Commons

Comfort Keepers

Swanton Valley Rehab & Nursing

Wallick Communities, including: Oakleaf Village, The Grove

Bronze Sponsors

Brookdale Senior Living at Bowling Green

Brooke Yussim, The Danberry Company

Christian Home Care

Foundation Park Alzheimer’s Care Center

Home Instead

HCF Management, including:The Manor at Perrysburg, Bowling Green Manor

Hospice of Northwest Ohio

Majestic Care of Toledo

Ohio Living Home Health & Hospice

UToledo Health Psychiatry Department

Village Caregiving of Toledo

Visiting Angels

Sponsor Spotlights

Gold Sponsor Spotlight: FirstLight Home Care of Sylvania-Perrysburg

FirstLight Home Care of Sylvania-Perrysburg is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of each client by providing in-home care services that support dignity, independence, and meaningful connection. Their team serves Sylvania, Toledo, Perrysburg, Ottawa Hills, and surrounding communities with a strong focus on caregiver-to-client matching and long-term trusted relationships.

Brian Epstein

President & CEO

(419) 517-0772

Silver Sponsor Spotlight: Arista Home Care Solutions

Arista Home Care Solutions is a locally owned and operated provider of in-home healthcare and companion care in the Toledo area. Their services include private duty care, skilled nursing, therapy, and care management, with a commitment to compassionate service and strong community reinvestment.

Clayton Birney

Owner/President

(419) 754-1897

Bronze Sponsor Spotlight: Village Caregiving

Village Caregiving lives out its mission to help older adults remain safely and comfortably at home. Their team provides support with everyday living needs and offers around-the-clock access to senior-level management, helping families feel supported and connected when care matters most.

Ryan Hill

Executive Director

 (419) 260-4544

Looking Ahead to April

We hope you will join us for our next NOGA monthly meeting on Thursday, April 2, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Genacross Lutheran Services, Wolf Creek Campus, Creekside Independent Living Condominiums Ballroom, 2045 Perrysburg-Holland Road, Holland, Ohio.

The April program will feature Natalie Haase, Traffic Safety Health Educator with the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department, presenting on Traffic Safety.

EVENTS

A special thank you to Genacross Lutheran Services for serving as our host and refreshment sponsor for the April meeting.

Stay Connected with NOGA

NOGA continues to provide opportunities for learning, advocacy, networking, and collaboration for professionals serving older adults throughout our region. We encourage members to stay engaged, attend upcoming meetings, explore available resources, and support the organizations that make this work possible.

Thank you for being part of the NOGA community.