CALA News & Views | Issue 57 | Impact

CALA is proud to celebrate our 2026 Workforce Champions who go above and beyond to support workforce outreach. These leaders share their experiences, welcome students into their communities, speak in classrooms and participate in career events to help students discover the possibilities of a career in senior living. By sharing their time and personal stories, they help students see the people, purpose and rewarding career opportunities that make senior living such a meaningful field.

LYNDEE WHALEY, Executive Director, Oakmont of Carmichael

Lyndee Whaley was recognized for her continued support of CALA’s workforce outreach. A long-time member of the Workforce Development Committee, she promotes CALA scholarships, connects students with career resources and represented CALA at an English Language Learner Healthcare Career Pathways event. By sharing her own educational journey and engaging with workforce leaders across Northern California, Lyndee helped spark new interest in senior living careers and generated invitations for CALA to connect with additional groups. CALA thanks Lyndee for going above and beyond to support workforce initiatives and introduce students to opportunities in senior living.

DAROLYN JORGENSEN-KARES, President and CEO, Continuing Life

Darolyn Jorgensen-Kares brings a strong commitment to education, employee development and the future of senior living. A member of CALA’s Workforce Development Committee, she promotes the CALA Elevate Conference Scholarship and the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology Graduate Scholarship. Darolyn has also created opportunities for employees within Continuing Life to advance their careers, including a scholarship program supporting CNA certification and a partnership with a local community college that enables employees pursuing nursing degrees to complete clinicals locally. CALA thanks Darolyn for her leadership and dedication to helping current and future senior living professionals grow their careers.

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