Population aging is rapidly transforming regions across the country and increasing the need for, and diversity of, support programs for older adults and their caregivers. At the 2025 NADO Washington Policy Conference, a session titled Aging and RDOs: What’s Changing and What’s Ahead brought together experts to discuss how Regional Development Organizations (RDOs) and Economic Development Districts (EDDs) can adapt to these shifts. The panel featured Annette Gutierrez, Executive Director of the Rio Grande Council of Governments, Sandy Markwood, CEO of USAging, and Brendan Flinn, Director of Long-Term Services and Supports at the AARP Public Policy Institute. Each offered a unique perspective on aging trends, policy implications, and strategies for integrating aging into economic development planning. Their insights underscored both the challenges and opportunities associated with an aging society, particularly for regional leaders working to support economic resilience and social well-being.
Many RDOs function as Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) for their regions or work closely with their region’s AAA. Moreover, aging is increasingly recognized as a major topic for regional economic developers. The recent NADO publication Older Adults and Economic Development: Planning for an Aging Population discusses this trend and includes tips for including aging as a topic in the CEDS and other planning efforts.
The panelists highlighted the rising costs of aging-related services, noting that home care and nursing home care are becoming increasingly unaffordable due to inflation and workforce shortages. AARP research has found that the cost of home care has risen faster than other major expenses like food and energy, posing a significant financial challenge for families.
On a positive note, there is growing recognition of the role of social care alongside medical care. The panelists emphasized that most healthcare occurs not in hospitals but in homes and communities. Networks of AAAs are expanding services to address care transitions, home care, nutrition, and transportation. Additionally, multisector state aging plans are bringing together diverse stakeholders, including economic development professionals, to address aging as a broad societal issue. Panelists recommended that RDOs and AAAs get involved with these state planning processes.
However, challenges persist, including social isolation among older adults and caregivers, as well as funding gaps for services.
Gutierrez shared that her region is struggling with a wages/services challenge: paying higher wages makes it easier to hire care workers, but reduces the number of people her programs can serve. She also noted a shift toward seeking support from localities and philanthropic organizations to fill funding gaps and recommended that attendees consider similar approaches.
One major topic was the ongoing efforts to reauthorize the Older Americans Act (OAA), a crucial source of federal funding for aging services. Markwood outlined several key wins that could come out of reauthorization, including streamlined contracting processes for AAAs, an expansion of evidence-informed programs, codification of grab-and-go meal programs, and increased funding levels for five years. However, she emphasized that it is a significant concern that the act is not currently authorized. She urged attendees to share stories with policymakers that demonstrate the critical role the OAA plays in supporting communities.
Gutierrez emphasized that aging policy affects everyone—not just older adults today, but also their caregivers and communities, as well as future generations who will face these same challenges.
Given potential funding uncertainties, the panelists discussed proactive strategies for maintaining essential aging services. As mentioned previously, Gutierrez shared that her organization is strengthening partnerships with local governments, nonprofit funders, and healthcare providers to diversify financial support. Exploring private pay models and innovative contracting mechanisms are also key strategies.
Should funding cuts materialize, panelists emphasized, prioritizing essential programs—such as meal delivery services—is critical to safeguarding support for the most vulnerable older adults.
The discussion underscored the importance of breaking down silos between aging services, economic development, and other sectors. Older adults interact with a range of systems—including transit, housing, and workforce development—which must be better coordinated to meet their needs.
Housing was identified as a particularly pressing issue, with Markwood noting that adults over 50 are the fastest-growing segment of the homeless population. Economic development strategies must include efforts to keep older adults engaged in the workforce, whether through flexible employment options, reskilling programs, or entrepreneurship support.
Flinn also emphasized that state and local leadership play a vital role in integrating aging into broader planning efforts. States with multisector aging plans are making significant progress, and local governments should follow suit by convening cross-sector discussions on aging. As natural conveners, RDOs and EDDs are well-positioned to participate in those discussions.
While Rio Grande COG has not experienced a mass exodus of workers post-COVID, workforce retention remains an ongoing challenge due to pay disparities and job demands. Gutierrez highlighted strategies such as building relationships with university social work programs, strengthening ties with workforce development organizations, and advocating for state policy changes that support wage increases as potential solutions for workforce challenges.
Markwood pointed to an innovative model from Michigan where an emergency fund for direct care workers reduced absenteeism by 80%, illustrating how strategic investments can improve workforce stability.
Caregivers provide an estimated $600 billion in unpaid care annually in the U.S., making them a critical yet often under-supported component of the aging services ecosystem. Markwood pointed out that live-in caregivers provide an average of 40 hours of care per week, while those who live separately contribute around 20 hours. The National Family Caregiver Support Program—administered by AAAs—is severely underfunded, despite being the only large-scale federal program dedicated to caregivers.
Both Markwood and Flinn emphasized the importance of advocating for increased funding and exploring policy solutions such as caregiver tax credits. Educating caregivers about available services before they reach a crisis point is another key priority.
The session concluded with a discussion of emerging models and innovative solutions in aging services. Gutierrez again encouraged RDOs and AAAs to explore partnerships with non-traditional interests as a means of securing additional funding. One example shared was a collaboration between an AAA and a local restaurant to provide meal services in areas without existing congregate meal facilities.
Flinn highlighted a new Medicare policy that allows Part D clinicians to be reimbursed for training caregivers—a promising but underutilized opportunity. Markwood shared examples of efficiency-focused initiatives, such as Oregon and Massachusetts’ statewide coordination of evidence-based programs, which enable rural AAAs to share resources rather than duplicating efforts. Michigan’s centralized longevity services center, created through partnerships between universities and nonprofits, was another successful model.
Aging is no longer a niche issue—it is a defining challenge for regional economies and community development. The insights from this conference session reinforced the need for RDOs to take an active role in integrating aging into economic and workforce planning. Policymakers, funders, and practitioners must work together to ensure that aging services remain financially sustainable and responsive to evolving needs.
One major theme from the session was the importance of advocacy. As the policy landscape evolves, RDOs should continue to communicate the value of the Older Americans Act and related programs to legislators, making aging issues tangible and relevant to decision-makers. By fostering partnerships, embracing innovation, and elevating the conversation around aging, communities can create more inclusive and resilient economies for all generations.
For more information, contact NADO Program Manager Dion Thompson-Davoli
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Ryan Collins joined NADO in 2024. He lives in Athens, Ohio, and is passionate about ensuring rural communities thrive and prosper across the country. Ryan has always identified as a helper and has focused his career on serving others in both the public and private sectors. Before joining NADO, Ryan worked as a Policy Manager with the National Digital Inclusion Alliance. There he focused on Federal Policy issues and making them more accessible to members. Before that Ryan worked with one of NADO’s member organizations Buckeye Hills Regional Council (BHRC) as a Broadband Coordinator and then as a Program Manager, where he led Ohio’s Southeast Regional Digital Inclusion Alliance, managed BHRC’s State and Federal Appalachian Regional Commission programs, and worked in several other programs. In his free time, Ryan enjoys reading, playing Dungeons and Dragons along with Magic the Gathering, building models, hiking, and spending time with his children (his cats Saturn and Cosmo.)
Regional Development Researcher Andrew Coker joined the NADO team in March of 2023 after spending two and a half years as the Regional Economic Resiliency Coordinator at West Central Arkansas Planning and Development District. Andrew holds a bachelor’s degree from Hendrix College and a master’s degree from the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service.
At NADO, Andrew conducts research on the newest economic and community development best practices from Economic Development Districts across the country. He helps produce easily digestible information on complex regional issues through case studies, tip sheets, and research reports. Andrew also hosts training and professional development opportunities including conference sessions and virtual webinars for member regional development organizations.
Andrew is one of our Missouri-based team members and enjoys reading and training for his next triathlon.
Jack Morgan came to the NADO team in 2022 after seven years with the National Association of Counties (NACo) as a Program and Senior Program Manager. Prior to NACo, Jack was a Policy Analyst for Friends of Southwest Virginia. Jack holds a bachelor’s in geography from Emory & Henry College and a master’s in geography from Appalachian State University.
As a NADO Senior Program Manager, Jack leads capacity-building and peer-learning work supporting energy communities in economic transition, regional resilience, and recreation economies. He also helps with the EDA-Austin training program Emerging Leaders.
Jack is certified by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and is a member of the American Planning Association (APA) in the Regional & Intergovernmental Planning division. He also serves on the Emory & Henry College Alumni Board.
Taking road trips, reading non-fiction, and indulging in top-notch barbecue and coffee round out Jack’s days. He loves maps, mountains, and of course, all things sports.
Karron Grant joined the NADO team in 2023 as Administrative Specialist and is the first face (or voice) you’ll see or hear when reaching out to NADO. As Administrative Specialist, Karron manages our database and coordinates NADO event operations. He ensures members’ needs are met, contact information stays current, and NADO’s office is running efficiently.
Karron came to NADO after four years in the classroom teaching at The New Century School and Old Mill Middle North where he received the Patriot of the Year award. He attended Towson University and the University of Maryland Global Campus and holds a bachelor’s in international studies and humanities.
Visiting art galleries and museums, playing basketball and bowling, and taking in movies and music are some of Karron’s interests and hobbies.
Deputy Executive Director Laurie Thompson has been with NADO for 25 years. Laurie helps keep the NADO and NADO Research Foundation wheels turning through management of the daily operations of the Research Foundation, securing financial resources and overseeing grants management, and helping execute NADO’s Annual Training Conference each year.
Laurie holds a bachelor’s in public affairs and government from Mount Vernon College and a master’s in health services administration from The George Washington University. Prior to NADO, Laurie spent time as a Field Specialist and an Eagle Staff Fund Director at First Nations Development Institute.
When she’s taking a rare reprieve from her NADO work, Laurie enjoys traveling domestically and internationally to visit friends and family.
Jamie McCormick joined the NADO team as a Policy Fellow first in 2019, then moved into her current role as Legislative Associate in 2021. As Legislative Associate, Jamie keeps NADO members apprised of any policy and regulatory issues and communicates NADO’s policy priorities to federal stakeholders and partner organizations. She is also the first stop for members with inquiries on policy issues. The planning and execution of NADO & DDAA’s annual Washington Conference is also managed by Jamie.
Jamie holds a dual bachelor’s in political science and international relations from The State University of New York College at Geneseo and a master’s in international development studies from The George Washington University. In addition to her roles at NADO, Jamie also worked as a Legislative Assistant for the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association.
Outside of her NADO work, Jamie is an active volunteer with the VOLO Kids Foundation and a fundraiser for YMCA youth programs. She is also NADO’s resident baker regularly providing treats for those in NADO’s D.C. office. Traveling, taking her pup on walks, and hiking in the northeast keep Jamie busy.
Brett Schwartz began at NADO in 2012 as a Research Fellow after earning his J.D. from the University of Baltimore School of Law. The following year, he was promoted to Program Manager and has now been leading as an Associate Director since 2018. Brett is responsible for managing NADO’s Economic Development District Community of Practice (EDD CoP), as well as researching and monitoring the latest trends in regional economic development and resilience, including best practices for the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). With more than a decade of experience on the NADO team, Brett is a dynamic relationship builder helping connect and build capacity among the national network of regional development organizations.
Brett also holds a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University and a master’s from Trinity College Dublin, as well as a certificate in mediation training. He’s a member of Catalyst Grantmakers of San Diego and Imperial Counties and was a participant in the 2021-22 Field Trips to the Future Cohort.
Brett is one of NADO’s West Coast team members residing in San Diego, CA where he enjoys spending time outdoors, attending concerts and festivals, and soaking up life as a parent of two young children.
Communications Manager Katie Allison joined the team in 2023 to lead the strategic communication efforts of NADO. Katie creates and develops print and online materials, communicates NADO’s updates to members via weekly emails, and maintains content for nado.org and NADO’s social media channels. She also works with different departments to generate new ideas and strategies to effectively describe and promote the important work NADO is doing for EDDs and RDOs across the country.
An experienced nonprofit communications professional, Katie has worked for organizations in western North Carolina for nearly a decade. She holds a bachelor’s in communications from Wingate University where she was a four-year student athlete. Katie has also completed Vision Henderson County, a comprehensive leadership development program that promotes informed and committed civic volunteerism.
Katie stays busy trying to keep up with her two young sons whom she enjoys exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains with. Traveling to new and favorite places and cheering on the Atlanta Braves are some of her family’s favorite pastimes.
Senior Program Manager Ciara Ristig has been a member of the NADO team since 2021, and helps with NADO’s EDD Community of Practice, EDD staff capacity building and other grants on a range of subjects, including equity and solar energy. Before NADO, Ciara worked as a Planner for the County of Santa Barbara and an Assistant Project Manager for REM Consult. Ciara holds a bachelor’s in urban studies and French from Bryn Mawr and a master’s in urban studies from Ecole d’Urbanisme de Paris.
When she’s not traveling, you can find her outrigger paddling and serving on the board of the Blue Sky Center in New Cuyama, CA, near her home base of Santa Barbara.
Carrie Kissel has been a member of the NADO team since 2005 when she began as a Research Fellow. She later moved into the roles of Program Manager in 2006, and then Associate Director in 2011. Carrie holds a bachelor’s in anthropology from Ball State University and a master’s in public anthropology from American University. As Associate Director, Carrie oversees NADO’s work in rural transportation and rural wealth creation. She provides technical assistance and support to rural regions on transportation and economic development issues and develops training and peer exchange events on transportation issues and rural wealth creation as an economic development strategy.
Carrie is a member of the Transportation Research Board (TRB) and secretary of TRB’s Rural Transportation Issues Coordinating Council. She is also a member of the American Anthropological Association and the National Association for the Practice of Anthropology.
Reading, gardening, hiking, and kayaking are a few of Carrie’s hobbies, and she organizes a book club in her community.
Melissa Levy has worked at NADO as a Regional Development Researcher since February 2023 and is the Principal Consultant at her own firm specializing in wealth-based economic development consulting. With a career spanning nearly 30 years, Melissa brings a breadth of knowledge to her role as a Regional Development Researcher. Melissa provides in-depth research, coaching, and training on regional economic resilience, rural wealth creation strategies, and economic development.
Melissa is a North American Food Systems Network trained AgriCluster Resilience and Expansion (ACRE) facilitator and a WealthWorks coach, facilitator, and trainer. In addition to her professional work, Melissa serves on the Vermont Urban and Community Forestry Council, on the board of the Hinesburg Community Resource Center, and on the Hinesburg Economic Development Committee.
A true outdoorswoman, Melissa enjoys cross country and downhill skiing, paddleboarding, hiking, biking, and kayaking, as well as yoga, and teaching Tai Chi.
Program Manager Krishna Kunapareddy began her role with NADO in February of 2023 after 14 years of service at Boonslick Regional Planning Commission in Missouri. Krishna manages NADO Research Foundation’s Planning and Environmental Linkages and Center for Environmental Excellence projects. In addition to researching and writing, Krishna also conducts virtual workshops on innovative tools and techniques related to transportation planning.
She holds an undergraduate degree from Andhra University and a master’s from JNT University in India, as well as a master’s in city and regional planning from the University of Texas at Arlington. Krishna is also a certified Smart Cities Academy Practitioner and holds the Location Advantage certificate from geographic information system software company ESRI.
In her spare time, Krishna volunteers with Mentors4College helping high schoolers better plan for their post-high school paths. She is also a dedicated advocate for documented H4 Dreamers.
Krystal DeLeon joined the NADO team in October of 2020 as Database & Grants Manger, but in January of 2022 transitioned to her current role as Operations Manager. Krystal keeps NADO running through behind the scenes work of invoicing, solving any database issues that may arise, producing membership reports, and much more. Her organizational skills and thorough knowledge help the NADO team operate more efficiently across all departments.
Prior to NADO, Krystal was the Conference Services Coordinator for State Services Organization. She is a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), a licensed realtor, and holds a bachelor’s in psychology from Liberty University. When she’s not keeping NADO’s operations in order, Krystal enjoys running and rock climbing, and adventuring with her husband and son.
Senior Program Manager Bret Allphin joined NADO in April of 2022 bringing with him a wealth of knowledge after a 20-year career with Buckeye Hills Regional Council in Marietta, Ohio. In addition to his bachelor’s in political science and master’s in public affairs, Bret is licensed Geographical Information Systems Professional (GISP). He is NADO’s go-to team member for all things mapping while also supporting members with transportation and economic development technical assistance services.
An avid sports aficionado and former collegiate athlete, Bret enjoys cheering on his Cincinnati Reds, hitting the trails on his mountain bike, and improving his golf game whenever possible. Bret is an involved community member in Marietta dedicating much of his spare time to serving on local nonprofit boards.
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Joe McKinney serves as Executive Director of the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO). Headquartered in Washington DC, NADO provides advocacy, education, research, and training for the nation’s 500+ regional planning and development organizations.
Joe has thirty-one years of experience having served in city, county, regional, national association, and government management since 1991. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Policy Analysis from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and is a candidate for a master’s degree in Public Administration from UNC-Chapel Hill.
McKinney has provided congressional testimony on numerous occasions regarding the importance of regional development organizations in helping shape the nation’s economic growth. He is nationally recognized for promoting innovative solutions in areas such as planning and economic development, workforce development, transportation and transit, and aging services.