Social work is a profession devoted to helping vulnerable people and communities work through challenges they face in everyday life.

For Kelly Malski and Deniseshla (Denise) Walton, two of a dozen social workers at Care Resources serving adults 55 years and older, a big part of their role is advocacy through a holistic lens.

They consider social and emotional needs, not just the medical diagnosis, to coordinate appropriate care and access to services, while respecting the choices of those they serve.

“We are on the front lines a lot when it comes to participants and families,” Malski said. “We are their strongest advocates. We can refer, offer and suggest things, but self-determination is always at the forefront.”

Working for a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, or PACE, means their ultimate goal is to keep participants “in their home in the community healthy and happy for as long as possible,” Malski added, helping prevent nursing home placement.

“In many ways, we help participants manage their lives,” Walton said. “At Care Resources, we coordinate all services a participant in our program needs to maintain their independence wherever they are living.” 

To read the full story and learn more about the Care Resources program and how their team of social workers help participants, click here.

Last updated 3.24.2025 I H5610_WEB