About the Coalition... BACKROUND

The Adult Abuse Coalition of South Central Tennessee (hereafter referred to as the Coalition) was formed through collaborative efforts of the South Central Tennessee Area Agency on Aging & Disability, the Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands, and the Adult Protective Services Division of the State of Tennessee Department of Human Services. After a couple of months of coordination and hard work by these three agencies in the Fall of 2003, the Coalition had its first official meeting in January 2004. The Coalition was organized for the purpose of protecting disabled and elder adults in this region from fraud, abuse, neglect, and exploitation, raise awareness regarding these issues, and to ensure there is a seamless flow of services for this population.

ACTIVITIES & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

The Coalition in South Central Tennessee continues to play a lead role in the Governor’s proclamation declaring October as Fraud and Financial Abuse of Elderly and Disabled Adults Awareness Month. Each year in October, members of the Coalition volunteer their time to make oral presentations to senior citizens at senior centers in each county, many with local government officials, such as city and county mayors, county sheriff, police chief, and legislators, also in attendance for signing the county-wide proclamation. Presentations include information about scams and other types of fraud and abuse.

Every Spring the Coalition hosts an annual conference, focusing on education and awareness of issues important to our elderly and disabled population, especially areas related to fraud and abuse. The Conference has consistently grown through the years and now attracts over 100 participants. The first Tuesday in May has been designated as the official Conference date each year.

SPEAKERS BUREAU

In 2005, the Coalition started a Speakers Bureau for the purpose of providing ongoing free education/training throughout the various communities across the thirteen-county district. Coalition members volunteer their time and expertise to provide the education/training in and around their geographic area. Topics include legal issues, victim’s rights, fraud and scams, Alzheimer’s Disease, home and community-based services, caregiver issues and other related topics.

PUBLICATIONS

The Coalition has produced several different publications for distribution to the public. These include a coalition brochure, Community Service Directory, and A Guide to Financial Crimes Against Our Elder and Disabled Adults.

FUNDING SOURCES

The Coalition is primarily funded through the Title VII Elder Abuse Prevention Grant of the Older Americans Act of 1965, as amended. This grant is administered through the South Central Tennessee Area Agency on Aging and Disability. All other funding obtained by the Coalition is through event sponsorships, promotional item sales, and community donations.