For many, networking is the highlight of the conference:
“I liked being able to learn with my co-workers”
“I liked spending time with people going through the same problems that I am, we’re able to understand what it is like and to talk about it.”
“I liked spending quality time with other direct care professionals, sharing experiences and learning together.”
Great speakers on topics ranging from Seizures, Compassion Fatigue, and Bullying to Oral Care, Depression, and Prescription Addiction.
“What I liked most about the conference was the session on Transgender Care followed closely by the mac and cheese”
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L to R: Donna Cheers and Sally Chapman, Hospice Aides, HCI/VNS, speak about what Mouth Care Matters oral health specialty training is and share their personal experiences and the benefits of completing the training. |
140 participate in the Dementia Live™ program and got to experience first-hand what it might be like to live with dementia. Find out more by contacting Renee Riffey.
If you need a particular speaker powerpoint, please contact ronni.steuben@iowacaregivers.org or call 515-223-2805
“My cholesterol went from 575 to 345! Thank you for having the health screenings. I participate every year!”
 78 participate in free health screenings.Special thanks to the Iowa Dental Hygienists’ Association and Polk County Health Department for providing this excellent service. |
| L to R: Sue Hyland and Nancy Miller, Iowa Dental Hygienists’ Association, demonstrate their yoga skills while staffing the Lifelong Smiles Coalition and the Iowa Dental Hygienists' Association's exhibit. Anita Stineman, University of Iowa, College of Nursing, looks on while staffing the Prepare to Care table. |  |
Shirley Sorenson, Iowa CareGivers Board Advisor, pictured with Job Corps Students. Shirley’s generous contribution in memory of her late husband, Bob, supported the "Toughest Job You'll Ever Love" campaign t-shirts for all conference attendees.
Thanks Shirley! To learn more about Shirley’s tribute click here and for her spoken words click here.
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Men in Caregiving and Others Honored |
Thanks and Congratulations to These Amazing Individuals and Organizations!
2017 Iowa CareGivers Leadership Awards Donna Cheers and Sally Chapman, Hospice Aides, HCI/VNS
2017 Margaret Swanson Legacy in Giving Award Valerie McDaniel, s Home Care Aide, Madison County Public Health
2017 From the Heart Recognition Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation and the Lifelong Smiles Coalition
85% say it increases the likelihood that they will stay in the field of direct care.
75% say it increases the likelihood that they will stay with their current employer.
Family Provides Conference Scholarship to Their Caregiver!As a token of their appreciation, the Wolnerman family provided a scholarship to the Riding the Wave conference to Andrea Morales, who provides caregiving assistance to the family.
Pictured L to R: Michael Wolnerman, David Wolnerman, and Andrea Morales
“Invigorating! Refreshing! A very good pick me up! Love it!”
“I enjoyed listening to others speak on what they have experienced, there aren’t a ton of people that can connect with my experiences and this was just perfect.”
“I am excited to take information back into the workplace and use it effectively to make a positive mark at work.”
“I loved the workshops!”
“Everything was very organized and well presented!”
“What I liked most: #1: Breakout sessions that help me do my job better. #2: Breakout and general sessions that inspire me to do my job better.”
“The theme was great! Friendly, helpful staff! But the support and encouragement was #1”
“Health screenings were great and good information at the screening booths!”
“The conference was awesome! Enjoy it every year!”
Click here to visit the photo gallery!
Thanks to all our sponsors and exhibitors! See list here.
The Courage to Care – A Tribute to Men in CaregivingMen make up only about 10% of the direct care workforce. Men who work in direct care deal with unique challenges in a field that is already challenging. Society tends to view caregiving as women’s work, implying that it is “easy”! Anyone who has ever done direct care…male or female…knows that is not true. Men in caregiving were recognized during the Iowa CareGivers conference for having the Courage to Care. Congratulations to all the men who join many women in a field that is tough both physically and mentally but rewarding on so many fronts!!
It was the best two days of my life!
I liked the feeling of value and purpose in my career choice.
Being in a positive environment where you actually feel appreciated for the work you do.
Good Times At "Going the Distance" Conference, view the full photo gallery here.
Click here to view the entire photo gallery.
