The Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging recently welcomed Jessica Garrett as nutrition program intake coordinator and Makayla Ferreira as case manager for the Rutland area.
Garrett joins the SVCOA from Rutland Mental Health Services, where she was a service coordinator. She has also worked as an energy conservation and efficiency coordinator at the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board. Garrett is a graduate of Green Mountain College and holds certifications in holistic health and wellness coaching from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition.
"I'm excited to join SVCOA's nutrition and community wellness team and contribute to the well-being of our community members," Garrett said. "Supporting people during their times of need is a passion of mine, and I look forward to being a part of this valuable effort."
Ferreira joins the council with previous experience as a certified nursing assistant. She has also been involved with Forty-Seven Main Street in Castleton, where she worked with mental-health patients. Ferreira holds a bachelor's degree in social work and brings a fresh perspective and a strong foundation in the principles of social care to her new role.
"We are thrilled to have Makayla as part of our team," said Director of Aging Services Samantha Brennan. "Her extensive experience, genuine care for the older Vermonters and commitment to making a difference align perfectly with SVCOA's mission."