Dear BEC Colleagues,

 

Genevieve suggested that I reach out to all of you, as this information might be helpful to some of the newer BEC’s in establishing outreach partnerships.   Isabella has been a BEC for many years and we’re still  learning from our mistakes and by trying different things.   We’re located in Manhattan and have clients walking into our storefront off a busy street.   We partner with those organizations whose mission is in sync with ours and sees a benefit to referring their clients (a mom and pop pharmacy, council member’s office, food pantry, or local CBO, for example).   Sometimes, it’s just that the agency is overloaded, such as a multi service CBO or Social Security office,  and wants to refer the seniors elsewhere for benefits.    My staff or volunteers focus on establishing a friendly relationship with the person who is closest to the clients or the gatekeeper, it may be the receptionist or the pharmacist, or the Assistant in the CM’s office, and periodically drop in to say hello with the purpose of reinforcing our connection and reminding them of our services that are still available to help them and their clients and leave brochures.  Sometimes there are new staff, or new projects, and we get an opportunity to educate or reach new populations.  We do this 2-3 times a year and some settings we attend monthly (like the food pantry).     This works really well in New York where partners are relatively close, but maybe it will give you an idea you could adapt to your area.    Feel free to contact me any time if you want more information.

 

Best wishes to all and especially those who may have experienced recent flooding.  You’re all in our thoughts.   

Carol

 

 

Carol Ban, LCSW
Director of Aging in Place Programs

515 Audubon Avenue
New York, New York 10040
212-342-9364