Originally from Philadelphia, Angela Thomas knew early on that she wanted to help people as a career. After a few years of school in Colorado, she returned to Pennsylvania, where she earned her Bachelor of Nursing degree at Penn, and later her Masters in Nursing. After a 17 year “break” to raise her 5 children, Angela returned to the work force in Dallas as a hospital nurse. During her five years in the hospital, she observed that the needs of seniors were not always well-served in that environment. About the same time, Angela was caring for her husbands aunt in their home. These experiences drew out a passion for the elderly, and in 2006 she launched Caring with Grace. Named after her aunt-in-law, Caring with Grace focuses on assisting its client to enjoy a high quality of life and reach their maximum potential. Angela encourages independence, and works hard to create environments that meet that goal while maintaining security and safety. Angela can be reached by email at angela@caringwithgrace.com, via the telephone at (214) 789-6402, or visit her website at www.caringwithgrace.com.
Debra Furtado describes herself as a “corporate refugee”. Originally from the West Coast, and a UGA grad (and UGA parent), she spent a number of years consulting for AGL. While she was still in the corporate world she served as the Board Chair for Senior Connections, an organization whose mission is to maximize independence for seniors through advocacy, information and services. When the CEO left, Debra stepped in as the interim CEO. Now, six years later, it’s safe to say that “Interim” has been eliminated from her title!
Sally Eggleston is also a corporate refugee. She was one of nine children, born and raised near Erie, Pennsylvania. She later moved to Houston, Texas. After more than two decades in the corporate world, Sally recently had an opportunity to bring her talents to bear at Senior Connections as their Chief Marketing Officer. As Sally puts it, Senior Connections offered a cause that she can feel passionate about. Part of this passion she attributes to the example set by her 96 year old mother who learned to drive for the first time at age 69.
Senior Connections will deliver more than 500,000 meals this year, will provide nutrition counseling, in-home care and home repair to the seniors of DeKalb County. They also operate six senior centers and offer a variety of classes, activities and trips. Find out more about Senior Connections by calling (770) 455-7602, or visit them on the web at www.seniorconnectionsatl.org.