Local agency serving seniors wins USAging Workforce Development Award

The Lewis-Mason-Thurston Area Agency on Aging (LMTAAA) has been honored with the USAging 2024 Workforce Development Award.

The agency provides services and resources for older adults, adults living with disabilities, and their families. 

This marks the third consecutive year LMTAAA has received this national recognition, which was announced at the USAging Annual Conference and Tradeshow in Tampa, Florida, from July 8-11.

"Our workplace philosophy is based on access, representation, and respect," said Mary Beth Mercer, Chief Human Resources Officer at LMTAAA. "We strive to provide the tools our staff need to succeed by ensuring free-flowing knowledge, clear support, and a transparent purpose."

A survey from one of the employees revealed that a positive workplace is as important as fair pay and flexible working conditions for long-term satisfaction.

In response, LMTAAA has introduced structured onboarding and training programs, along with regular engagement opportunities to build employee confidence and connections.

"High turnover can disrupt organizational stability," stated Nicole Kiddoo, Executive Director of LMTAAA. "By focusing on progress and inclusion from the start, we emphasize teamwork and collective growth."

Previously, LMTAAA received the 2023 USAging Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for its professional development program and the 2022 award for the Excellence in Leadership Academy, which helped many graduates advance in their careers.