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Author: Rossella Alla

Doctor’s Visits: A Checklist for Caregivers

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Thomas H.

When you visit your primary care doctor, how long do you expect your appointment to last? Don’t factor any time you might spend in the waiting room. Estimate only the time you spend in the examination room with your doctor.  

According to a 2023 study published in JAMA Health Forum, patients spend an average of 15 to 18 minutes with their doctor per appointment. The doctor uses some of those minutes to perform an exam based on the reason for the visit, and a few more writing notes or completing other tasks.  

The bottom line is that a doctor’s visit can be over before you know it, and patients may not have enough time to ask questions or accomplish everything they set out to in scheduling their appointment.  

But there is a way to optimize every doctor’s appointment–by planning ahead. This is especially important if you are the caregiver of a loved one or client and one of your responsibilities is to accompany and assist them with their medical appointments.  

When should you take someone to see the doctor? 

  • Annual check-ups and regularly scheduled appointments 
  • Changes in health, bodily functions, or behavior 
  • Injuries or sudden illness 

How can caregivers prepare for their client or loved one’s doctor’s appointment?   

First, track the person’s symptoms as you provide care. Note any recent physical or mental changes, including new complaints about pain(s), changes in mood, mobility and functioning, along with any increase or decrease in weight. Next, schedule the appointment for a time of day when the person you care for is most likely to be alert and energetic. A few days before the appointment, sit down with the person and write out a list of questions.  

Make sure you bring everything that you need for the appointment 

If you bring all of the items in the list below, you will be well prepared for a doctor’s visit:  

  • Insurance cards 
  • Current medication list 
  • A list of all doctors that the patient sees 
  • Medical history (for new doctors) 
  • Calendar/Planner to schedule and record follow up visits (add future appointments to the calendar on your phone if that’s convenient) 

Download a printable checklist you can use for your next doctor’s appointment.

If the person you are caring for is a new client, talk to them about your role and ask them about any specific wishes or preferences they may have for their appointment, for example, if they’d like to spend some time alone with the doctor. Note that in some cases you may need to attend the patient for the whole appointment, for example, if the patient has dementia or poses a fall risk). 

If the person has difficulty understanding or remembering: 

  • Ask the doctor to clarify anything that is confusing 
  • Ask about side effects for new medications/changes in medications 
  • Ask what to do if there are complications 

After the Appointment: 

Review any notes you take and discuss the visit with your loved one/client. Make sure you have added any follow-up appointments to your calendar. Call the pharmacy and order any prescriptions or arrange for pick-up or delivery of any prescriptions the doctor may have phoned in or submitted electronically. Call the doctor’s office to get any test results and relay any additional questions you or the person have. 

There are multiple factors that impact the amount of time doctors can spend with any one patient, so it’s important to make the best use of the time you have in the examining room.  Following these simple guidelines will go a long way towards ensuring a successful visit each time you visit the doctor. 

JEVS Care at Home helps seniors and adults with disabilities lead full and independent lives 

Contact us today for more information about our award-winning home care services: https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/  

DOWNLOAD CHECKLIST

Genesis’ Story: Finding Joy and Peace of Mind as a Family Caregiver

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Thomas H.

Genesis is one of our newest Family Caregivers here at JEVS Care at Home (JCAH). She shared with us recently about her decision to become a Family Caregiver, the joy she derives from being able to provide the support her mother needs, and why she chose to work with JEVS Care at Home after considering other providers.

1) Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

Hello! My name is Genesis, and I’m my mom’s Family Caregiver through JEVS Care at Home. Since I was young, I’ve always gravitated toward the medical field. It brings me joy to help people. I also have a creative side. I’m an aspiring esthetician, and I hope to go to school soon to become licensed. It’s never too late to start a new journey!

2) How are you supporting your mother?

My mom was diagnosed with a new illness in November of last year. She was hospitalized multiple times within a few months, and this made it very complicated for her to manage several other health conditions she has been dealing with. I decided to quit my job and fully focus on her care, to make sure she received the care and support she needs. I applied through the PA Medicaid waiver program to be her full-time caregiver, I and was able to move into this role after the new year.

I am so grateful for the opportunity to care for her through JEVS Care at Home. We have established a daily regimen, and this gives her a sense of routine. I take her vitals, help her manage medications, prepare her meals, help her with showers and hygiene. I assist her with whatever she needs.  It’s a peace of mind that is invaluable to us both. 

3) How has becoming a family caregiver made a positive impact on your own life? 

It all started when I was a young child. My father was very ill while I was growing up. When I was in high school, I became his caregiver. At this point he was wheelchair bound. He passed away in 2019 at age 71. In a bittersweet sense, as I grieved, it brought me solace knowing that I did everything in my power to make his quality of life the best I could.

Becoming a family caregiver at an early age made me deeply empathize with everyone around me. I feel so much compassion for those in need, or anyone who is going through a hard time. Caregiving is a job that has to be done with love–the same love that my parents gave me. That has given me the strength to care for them. 

4) What made you decide to work with JEVS Care at Home rather than another provider?

I was initially looking around at different agencies trying to pick the right one for me and my mother’s case. I called a couple of agencies, but no one really stood out to us until we called JEVS Care at Home. I remember speaking to Ruth as my first impression of the agency, and she was so knowledgeable, kind and supportive.

She took her time explaining things and made sure I knew that I could always reach out to her for anything. Every single person that I’ve been in contact with since that first call has maintained that same exact level of professionalism, enthusiasm, and care. I will always recommend JEVS Care at Home! 

5) What advice would you have for others who are thinking about becoming a family caregiver? 

If I could redo life and take care of my father and mom again, I’d do it again and again. Sure, being a caregiver can come with a lot of responsibility, at times even many hardships, but there’s something priceless about being selfless and giving your family that extra support in a time of need in their lives. It’s so rewarding to give back to them and form a deeper bond through this caregiving journey!

I’m very blessed to be able to do this for my dad first and now my mom. It’s equally important to give yourself time to recalibrate, even if it’s just a couple hours of hours at the library, going for a walk at the park, or even going for some coffee with a friend. To care for someone else, you must always care for yourself first! 

6) Is there anything else you would like to share?

I would just like to say that I’m so honored and grateful to have this opportunity to care for my mom, while being able to financially support myself. Caring for someone is indeed a full-time job. My mom is happy that I’m able to be here with her each day as she makes progress with her health, and that to me means more than anything. So, thank you to every person that has helped facilitate my journey in getting started with JEVS Care at Home, you are all amazing!

Winter Skincare Tips

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Thomas H. and Nurse Kim

Winter Skincare Tips 

When the weather changes, your skincare routine should change along with it. Winter’s colder temperatures and lower humidity can make it difficult for our skin to retain moisture. This can lead to dry, itchy skin and chapped lips. [SOURCE: https://www.aad.org/news/cold-weather-and-your-skin] 

Begin protecting your skin against the cold by following this important rule: whenever you go outside, expose as little skin as possible. Wear gloves, hats, scarves, and earmuffs. They not only keep you warm, but they also minimize the effect of cold, dry air on your skin.  

Next, follow a skincare regimen designed for winter:  

  • Avoid showering or bathing in water that is too hot. Hot water removes natural oils from the skin, and the more oils removed, the drier the skin becomes. Showering in scalding temperatures tends to dry out your skin even more.
  • Use soaps with moisturizer 
  • Exfoliate using a gentle brush 
  • Moisturize after bathing while skin is moist 
  • Choose moisturizers with: ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, lanolin, mineral oil, and petroleum jelly.  
  • Use Vaseline/Aquaphor; these products create a barrier to prevent water loss from the skin. They can help keep skin hydrated, especially in dry environments or for people with very dry skin. 
  • Keep lotion & lip balm handy 
  • Brush your lips with a toothbrush to get rid of any excess skin. 

The American Academy of Dermatology cautions that cold weather also affects the humidity inside our homes. Turning up the heat or lighting a fireplace can reduce the moisture in the air even more. Instead, keep your thermostat a bit lower and bundle up in layers. Also, use a humidifier to add moisture back to the air. This will offer additional protection against dry skin. [SOURCE: https://www.aad.org/news/cold-weather-and-your-skin] 

Finally, stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking water. Drinking water helps to replenish the skin’s natural moisture and further reduces the effects of colder, dryer air. 

 

JEVS Care at Home helps seniors and adults with disabilities live full, independent lives at home.  

For more about our services, including no-cost options for eligible veterans and Medicaid participants, contact us today. [Link “today” to https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/ ] 

Congratulations to the JEVS Work Ready Graduates! 

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By JEVS Staff

Since 2021, JEVS Human Services’ Work Ready program has helped more than 130 individuals gain high school diplomas through its partnership with Penn Foster.

For the first time in the history of the program, JEVS Work Ready hosted the graduation ceremony at the National Constitution Center. The location set an inspiring tone for celebrating graduates who overcame challenges to receive diplomas and build better opportunities for their families.

In her welcoming remarks, JEVS President and CEO, Cynthia Figueroa celebrated the graduates for not giving up. “This diploma is a testament to your strength, resilience, and commitment to building a better future,” she said. “Let it remind you of what you can do when you commit to a goal and push through obstacles.”

Many of the 35 graduating students shared how getting their high school diplomas empowered them to overcome the stigma of not completing school. They shared how the support of JEVS Work Ready Program—especially from Instructor Ms. Alberta—changed their lives.

Class Valedictorian Nichelle Lee praised Ms. Alberta, saying, “She pours her heart, love, and care into [her] students.” Lee congratulated her classmates and expressed gratitude to them, her family, and the JEVS team. Earning her diploma, she said, strengthened her resilience and self-belief. “This moment is about our passion and perseverance,” Lee said.

Ms. Alberta acknowledged the challenges many students faced. “For some of you, the decision to leave school was made for reasons beyond your control. But I am here to tell you that today is a new beginning.” She reminded them of their accomplishments, what their diplomas mean for their futures, and how JEVS will continue to support them moving forward.

JEVS’ Work Ready Director of Education Services Mark Webb gave closing remarks. “You have worked so hard, both individually and collectively, and overcome so much to earn that diploma.”

Graduates will now have the opportunity to continue their education and job training through healthcare programs at Orleans Technical College, a program of JEVS Human Services.

Individuals who are interested in JEVS’ Work Ready program can learn more by clicking this link.

Glaucoma: 10 Key Facts Seniors & Caregivers Need to Know

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Thomas H. and Nurse Kim 

Glaucoma: 10 Key Facts Seniors & Caregivers Need to Know 

As we recognize January as Glaucoma Awareness Month, here are 10 things seniors and their caregivers need to know about this disease that effects an estimated 3 million Americans: 

1. A disease of the eye:

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, which connects your eye to your brain. Glaucoma is often linked to high pressure inside the eye, although people with normal eye pressure can get a version of the disease. 

2. Silent symptoms:

Glaucoma usually has no early symptoms. You won’t feel pain or notice vision changes until the damage is serious. 

3. It affects peripheral vision first:

Glaucoma often starts by affecting side (peripheral) vision. Many people don’t notice the loss because it happens slowly. 

4. Vision loss is permanent:

Once glaucoma damages your vision, it can’t be restored. This makes early detection crucial. 

5. Some people are at higher risk:

Glaucoma affects people of all ages, but your risk is elevated if you are 60 and older, especially if you are Latino/Hispanic. African Americans over the age of 40, people with a family history of glaucoma, and those with high eye pressure, diabetes, or severe nearsightedness also are at higher risk. [SOURCE: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/glaucoma] 

6. Regular eye exams are essential:

The National Eye Institute (NEI) recommends that everyone over 60 get a comprehensive eye exam every year, even if their vision seems fine. An eye doctor can check for early signs of glaucoma. [SOURCE: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/glaucoma]  

7. Glaucoma is manageable:

While there’s no cure, treatments like eye drops, laser therapy, and surgery can help lower eye pressure and prevent further damage. 

8. Eye drops must be taken as directed:

If prescribed, glaucoma eye drops must be used exactly as directed. Missing doses can allow eye pressure to rise and cause damage. [SOURCE: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/glaucoma-eyedrop-medicine] 

9. Exercise may help lower risk:

Regular, moderate exercise, like walking, can help lower eye pressure. Avoid exercises that strain the eyes, like heavy weightlifting. [SOURCE: https://glaucoma.org/articles/sports-exercise-and-glaucoma-safe-practices-and-recommendations ] 

10. Signs of advanced glaucoma:

Severe glaucoma may cause blurred vision, halos around lights, eye pain, or headaches. If you notice these symptoms, see an eye doctor immediately. 

Caregivers can play a vital role in helping seniors manage glaucoma by ensuring they attend eye exams, take prescribed medications, and follow their doctor’s advice. Remember: early action can save sight! 

 

JEVS Care at Home Can Help 

For more information about our services for seniors and adults with disabilities, contact us today at https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/  

Handwashing: Your Essential Guide to Stopping Germs and Illness

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Nurse Kim and Thomas H.

Handwashing: Essential Protection Against the Spread of Germs, Illness 

Keeping our hands clean is one of the most important things we can do to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. [SOURCE: https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html ] 

This is because many diseases and conditions can be spread by dirty hands. [SOURCE: https://www.media.pa.gov/Pages/Health-Details.aspx?newsid=691] This includes common illnesses, like colds, and more serious diseases, like meningitis. The CDC estimates that handwashing can prevent about 20 percent of respiratory infections and 30 percent of diarrhea-related sicknesses. [SOURCE: https://www.media.pa.gov/pages/health-details.aspx?newsid=1174 ] 

When to Wash Your Hands 

Knowing when to wash your hands is an important first step. Click HERE for a caregiver video tip. 

“Germs like salmonella, E.coli, and norovirus can get on our hands after using the bathroom, changing a diaper, or touching raw meat,” says the Pennsylvania Dept. of Health. If we don’t wash off these germs, we can pass them on to other people, who can become ill. [SOURCE: https://www.media.pa.gov/Pages/Health-Details.aspx?newsid=691] 

Washing your hands throughout the day and before and after completing certain tasks will give you and those around you the best protection against germs and illness. 

Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly…: 

  • Before, during, and after preparing food 
  • Before eating food 
  • Before and after caring for someone who is sick 
  • Before and after treating a cut or wound 
  • After using the toilet 
  • After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet 
  • After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing 
  • After touching an animal 
  • After handling pet food or pet treats 
  • After touching garbage 

[SOURCE: https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html ] 

Washing your hands the right way: 

To get the maximum benefit from handwashing it’s very important to wash your hands the right way. Follow these steps from the CDC: 

  1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap. 
  2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. 
  3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Evidence shows that washing your hands for this long gets rid of more germs.  
  4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.  
  5. Dry your hands as thoroughly as possible.

If soap and water aren’t available, you can wash your hands with hand sanitizer. Chose a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. As with soap and water, make sure to get the back of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. Rub your hands together until they are completely dry.  

[SOURCE: https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html] 

JEVS Care at Home Can Help 

Our caregivers empower seniors and adults with disabilities to live fully and independently at home by assisting with personal care and everyday tasks. For more information, contact us today [LINK to https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/ ] 

Healthy Eating Tips for the Holidays | Enjoy Festive Foods Without Guilt

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Thomas H. and Nurse Kim

Healthy Eating Tips for the Holidays 

The Holidays are a time of joy and togetherness, marked by celebrations that often center around sharing delicious meals and festive treats.  

While indulging in seasonal favorites is part of the fun, it can also make it challenging to maintain healthy habits and avoid unwanted weight gain. A recent study found that the average American gains 1-2 pounds over the Holidays [SOURCE: https://www.webmd.com/diet/features/holiday-weight-gain-big-fat-lie]. That doesn’t sound like much, but those pounds often stick around.  

The good news is that it’s possible to enjoy your favorite Holiday treats while also minimizing the risk of weight gain. Here are some tips from JCAH’s Director of Health and Education, Nurse Kim St. Peter: 

Tip #1: Don’t Skip Meals

Skipping meals to “save room” often leads to overeating later. 

  • Have breakfast to help manage your appetite for the day. 
  • Eat fiber-rich foods like fruits, veggies, and whole grains to stay full with fewer calories. 

Tip #2: Serve Small Portions

Holiday meals can tempt us to overfill our plates and go back for seconds. 

  • Choose nutrient-rich foods for a balanced plate. 
  • Stick to one serving, which can include dessert! 

Tip #3: Use Portion-Control Strategies

Set yourself up to avoid overeating with a few smart strategies: 

  • Use a smaller plate to manage portions. 
  • Start with veggies and salad, which fill you up with fewer calories. 
  • Eat slowly and wait 10 minutes before considering seconds to see if you’re still hungry. 

Tip #4: Eat What You Love

It’s easy to eat everything just because it’s there but try to choose wisely. 

  • Focus on foods you truly enjoy and skip what doesn’t excite you. 
  • Don’t feel pressured to eat something just because it’s a holiday staple. 

Tip #5: Keep Moving

After a big meal, get some physical activity. 

  • Take a walk to catch up with family or play a game with the kids. 

Tip #6: Ditch the Guilt

Holiday eating doesn’t have to be perfect. 

  • Don’t stress if you overeat; just get back to healthy habits the next day. 
  • Remember, the holidays are about enjoying the season and celebrating with loved ones. 

JEVS Care at Home Supports Seniors and Adults with Disabilities 

If you or someone you love needs support to keep living independently, we can help. Contact us today for more about our services, including no-cost options for eligible veterans and Medicaid participants: https://www.jevshumanservices.org/program/jevs-care-at-home/ 

Meet Our Team: Judy Emmons, Senior Vice President of Home Care Services, JEVS Care at Home  

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By: Thomas H.

Judy Emmons has a rich background in public health and community service.  As Senior Vice President of Home Care Services at JEVS Care at Home, she shared her experience in nonprofit healthcare, her dedication to helping underserved populations, and her creative ideas for improving home care services. 

1. Please tell us a bit about your professional background and how you came to JCAH? 

I’ve always been interested in working with underserved populations and improving the social determinants of health in various communities. I have a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Latin American Studies from Rutgers University, and a master’s degree in public health from Drexel University.  My first job out of college was in Camden, NJ, at a non-profit called Puerto Rican Unity for Progress, where I ran afterschool programming for at-risk teens. It was one of my favorite jobs, and I still keep in touch with some of the teens from my time there. They are now adults, and it’s amazing to see all of the wonderful things they are doing and the people they’ve become.  Prior to joining JEVS Human Services, I worked at Congreso de Latinos Unidos, Inc. (Congreso) for twelve years, where I served in various roles, including Director of Primary Care and Vice President of Healthcare Services.  My roles focused on overseeing the agency’s Federally Qualified Health Center and HIV/AIDS department, as well as the implementation of an on-site pharmacy.  During my time at Congreso, I met many colleagues who are currently serving in roles here at JEVS, which is how I learned about the great work being done at JEVS.  I decided to join the JEVS Care at Home team in January 2024, and it’s been a wonderful experience so far. We have an amazing team of administrative staff who are very committed to the clients we serve, plus so many dedicated caregivers doing this important work every day.   

2. What do you do in your role as Senior VP for Home Care Services? 

In my role as Senior VP for Home Care Services, I oversee both our Personal Assistance Services in Pennsylvania for JEVS Care at Home and our self-directed homecare model in the Financial Management Services department of JEVS Human Services.  My role supports both leadership teams to align with our agency’s strategic priorities and goals, including implementing quality assurance and compliance projects, overseeing operations, developing successful teams, and managing our financial health and sustainability.  I’m also responsible for guiding our division to new opportunities, including new services and geographic expansion.   

3. What aspect of your work do you find most fulfilling? 

I enjoy program design and finding solutions to barriers through the use of human-centered design (HCD) practices.  I have been working with my team over the past year to utilize some basic HCD approaches, including development of Minimum Viable Products (MVPs), personas, and build-measure-learn feedback loops.  The Human Centered Design approach is something that I find very helpful in planning and approaching challenges, both big and small.  I am currently working with our Health and Education and Quality Assurance teams to implement or improve various value-based care initiatives at JEVS Care at Home, including addressing gaps in care and preventing client re-hospitalizations.   

4. How would you explain “The JCAH Difference” to a potential client or partner organization? 

JEVS Care at Home has the advantage of being a part of JEVS Human Services, which allows us access to a multitude of resources and programming for our clients and caregiver staff, including opportunities for career and technical education.  We also offer our caregivers professional development, such as CPR training, Mental Health First Aid certification, and Dementia Capable Care, through our Nursing and Education department.  These trainings help our caregivers better support the clients they serve, and also develop new skills for their own development.  Additionally, we’ve recently added resources and staff to our team to help our clients navigate various systems and address barriers to care, with the intention of improving the social determinants of health in the client population we serve.   

  5. What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working? 

I have a toddler who is almost three years old, so right now I enjoy exploring and learning about the world through her eyes.  We enjoy going to the zoo, the aquarium, amusement parks, and playgrounds, and she’s just starting to speak in full sentences and ask questions, so it’s really interesting, and sometimes funny, to hear her impression of things she is seeing for the first time.  She recently got to feed a giraffe at the zoo. I was afraid she’d be scared, but she giggled the entire time.  When I’m not doing toddler things, I’m a big fan of visiting museums; my favorite local museum is The Barnes Foundation, and my two favorite museums that I have been to are the Reina Sofia National Museum of Art in Madrid and the Louvre in Paris.   

 6. If you could acquire a superpower, what would it be? 

If I could have any superpower, it would be the ability to time travel.  I’d love to see both the past and the future of our world, and visit important times in our history, and personally, I’d like to be able to go back and re-visit certain times or people in my life, especially as my daughter keeps getting older.   

  7. Tell us one the things you love the most about Philadelphia. 

The thing I love most about Philadelphia is our diversity, and opportunities to learn about other cultures.  I recently took my daughter to the Dia de Los Muertos celebration in the Italian Market, where she got to see first-hand this tradition from the Mexican culture – we had so much fun seeing the art and imagery associated with the holiday, listening to the music, and trying new food.  We also love the Chinese Lantern Festival at Franklin Square, especially at nighttime when all of the huge installations are glowing, surrounded by traditional Chinese music and performers.  Another favorite of mine is Taller Puertorriqueño, an arts and culture center in North Philadelphia that features art and literature from Philadelphia and Puerto Rican born artists.  No matter where you go in Philly, you are always surrounded by culture and history, and there is always a celebration or festival to explore.   

Hundreds Attend Orleans Technical College’s 50th Anniversary Graduation Ceremony for Healthcare and Trades Graduates

Posted on by Rossella Alla

Orleans Technical College celebrates its largest graduating class, marking a milestone in its 50-year history with graduates achieving certifications in healthcare and skilled trades.

(Philadelphia, PA) — Orleans Technical College, a program of JEVS Human Services (JEVS), celebrated the accomplishments of 254 graduates from its healthcare and trades programs on Thursday, November 21. Nearly 1,000 family members, supporters, and Orleans Technical College staff packed the Philadelphia Ballroom for the evening of inspiration. 

The ceremony made history with the college’s first graduating class from the Clinical Medical Assistant (CMA) program, marking an exciting milestone in Orleans Technical College’s 50 years. The 11 graduates received a 100 percent certification rate after completing their classroom and laboratory education. They have all been offered employment through Orleans Technical College employer partners: Jefferson Einstein, Temple Health, and Penn Medicine. “My main goal is to let my kids know, no matter how far behind you are—you can do it,” said Shaquanna Patterson Jordan, CMA Class of 2024. “I’m not stopping here! My next goal is to become an LPN or RN…This is only the beginning!” 

The event also honored the dedication and achievements of students who have completed training and certifications in high-demand fields like carpentry, electricity, HVAC, and plumbing. Jose Aguirre, Senior Manager of Local Government Affairs at PECO, addressed the importance of strong partnerships which help connect graduates to career opportunities. “At PECO, we are dedicated to serving communities. That’s part of why we are so proud to be an employer partner for Orleans Technical College,” said Aguirre. “A strong workforce raises all tides.” He pointed to how the company has hired many Orleans Technical College graduates over the years who have gone on to have meaningful careers, underscoring the college’s commitment to providing life-changing opportunities. More than half of Orleans Technical College graduates represent the lowest-income zip codes in Philadelphia. Earning certifications in skilled trades has empowered the lives and futures of these individuals and their families.   

Diplomas were awarded by Orleans Technical College’s leadership. The celebration included 28 participants from JEVS Project WOW  who earned their high school diplomas as well as property maintenance and repair certificates. “You all represent the future!” said Waleska Maldonado, JEVS Chief Program Officer. “You are tomorrow’s essential workers that will keep our city, country, and society functioning—and healthy!”  

ABOUT  

JEVS Human Services (JEVS) has an 80+ year history in working with individuals to create sustainable paths to independence and economic security. JEVS’ vision is to help every person achieve personal independence and fulfillment. Our mission and vision reflect JEVS’ long-standing history of helping people connect to opportunity and cultivate independence.

Orleans Technical College, operated by JEVS Human Services, is an accredited, non-profit career training school. It prepares adults for careers in building trades and healthcare. Since 1974, Orleans Technical College has helped students move toward one common goal: learning new skills to enhance their success in the workforce. Orleans Technical College offers job training programs in building trades and healthcare. 

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