“As Creative Engagement Lead, I make a commitment to those I work with to support their well-being, hold space for their authentic selves, and keep showing up. Together we share their interests, try new things, and connect with our community.”

In middle school, Salem volunteered at a memory care community. Through this experience, they first discovered the joy of working with older adults.

From volunteering to Salem’s first job at 16 as a dietary server in an assisted living community, their journey has led them to the present at Aging Wisdom. Their experiences continue to weave a colorful tapestry of creativity, connectedness, and engagement which reflects their ongoing learning and expertise.

Salem’s rich history working in healthcare, specifically long-term care, has focused on meeting individuals where they are; they take a strengths-based approach when tailoring client engagement. Their current experiences and previous experience as a case manager for people living with HIV have presented opportunities to empower clients to advocate for themselves when they can and to advocate on their behalf when they cannot.

Salem holds a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Healthcare Studies from Ohio University and is Activity Professional Certified credentialled through the National Certification Council for Activity Professionals.

Landing in Seattle from Ohio, Salem envisions a community where neighbors exchange time and resources freely and joyfully as they have capacity. Acknowledging folks of intersecting identities, they support transformation to bring more people opportunities to live a better quality of life. Outside of work, they return this care to themselves, enjoying nature, music, vegan cooking, and creating art.