Catholic Charities Shines a Spotlight on the Ombudsman Program

Catholic Charities is proud to support the important work of the Ombudsman Program, which ensures that residents in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and personal care homes are treated with dignity and respect. Ombudsmen are advocates who listen to residents’ concerns, investigate complaints, and work with care providers to create positive solutions.

Recently, Nichole Peardon, Catholic Charities Ombudsman Program Supervisor, presented at a PA Link event to help the community better understand this vital program. Nichole’s expertise and passion brought the program to life. Nichole described the Ombudsman Program, what it does, and how families and residents can connect with the right support.

This learning session reflected Catholic Charities’ ongoing commitment to education and advocacy, ensuring that families and caregivers knew their loved ones had someone protecting their rights.

Celebrating new PEER graduates

Recently, several new residents graduated from the PA Empowered Expert Residents (PEER) program.  This program enables residents to educate fellow residents about their rights. To celebrate their achievement, the group gathered for a fun event at a local movie theater, a joyful reminder that while the work is serious, building community and camaraderie is just as important.

“It was inspiring to see our volunteers complete their training with such commitment and heart. The Ombudsman Program depends on people who are willing to stand up for residents’ dignity, and I was so proud to celebrate their success together," shared Nichole Peardon, Ombudsman Program Supervisor.