Champions come from many backgrounds, communities and perspectives. At the core, Champions are leaders and innovators at the local, state or national level who are dedicated to ending social isolation and loneliness.
Examples of potential local Champions:
Staff and volunteer leaders from: community-based organizations, local foundations and philanthropic organizations, educational institutions, long-term care ombudsmen, senior centers, parks and recreation departments, respite providers, senior housing and long-term care (including CCRCs, nursing, assisted living), caregiver associations, food security (e.g. pantries) organizations, animal welfare organizations, faith-based organizations, educators, Centers for Independent Living, health care organizations, disability-focused organizations, veteran service organizations and elected officials/offices. Local Champions can also be self-advocates.
Examples of potential state Champions:
- Staff and leaders from: state government, or groups/initiatives within state governments/agencies (e.g. state aging and disability offices, Public Health, Mental Health, Departments of Education), state colleges/universities, long-term care state ombudsmen programs, nonprofits, associations and coalitions and/or private organizations with statewide reach, statewide philanthropic organizations, statewide assistive technology programs, university centers for excellence in developmental disabilities (UCEDD) network.
Examples of potential national Champions:
- Staff and leaders from: national associations, national organizations, national societies, national coalitions, foundations and philanthropic organizations, technology companies, national housing providers, health and long-term care providers, national health systems, national health plans and insurance companies, national faith-based organizations, and federal agencies.