In 2005, Caregiving Corner was launched by CEO & Founder, Jennifer T. Szakaly, as a way of combining her passion for working with older adults with finding a meaningful way of attending to the needs of family caregivers. Our goal is, and always has been, to provide older adults with the advocacy they need and deserve later in life. For caregivers, we aim to give them peace of mind, clarity, and confidence about their role as a caregiver.
We use our expertise and resourcefulness to help families of older adults navigate through the complexity and emotional impact of caregiving decisions. As the result of our guidance, families will experience less stress and greater peace of mind.
Jennifer T. Szakaly, MA, CMC, NMG attended UNC-Charlotte and earned her Master of Arts in Gerontology in 2002.
Following her work for various for-profit and non-profit organizations in the aging industry, she opened Caregiving Corner in 2005. Jennifer became nationally certified as a care manager in 2008 and nationally certified as a guardian in 2018. In 2023, Jennifer obtained her National Master Guardian designation, held by fewer than 100 guardians nationwide.
Jennifer previously served as President of the Southeast Chapter of the Aging Life Care Association and has also served as a Board Member for the North Carolina Guardianship Association. Currently, Jennifer serves as Board Member for the Aging Life Care Association.
More important than her professional accomplishments are the qualities of compassion, integrity, and resourcefulness that equip her with the skills to help families through the most difficult caregiving challenges.
Jennifer is a proud Fellow of the Leadership Academy of the Aging Life Care Association, the highest designation achievable in this profession.
We pride ourselves in our commitment to stay abreast of the ever-changing landscape of senior services and aging research. To this end, our Aging Life Care Managers are members of the following professional organizations:
Rachael Holden - Director of Client Experience & Team Support
Rachael received her Master of Public Health from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro and her Bachelors degree in public health and gerontology at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Rachael has worked in the aging industry in many different capacities. She utilizes her knowledge and passion to positively impact the lives of others.
When she isn’t working she enjoys spending time with her family, lifting weights and reading.
Before obtaining a master’s in social work with a concentration in aging, from UNC Chapel Hill in 1986, Connie worked as a certified nursing assistant and social worker in a skilled nursing facility. Since graduation, Connie has had a 30+ year career in healthcare and held various leadership positions all of which at their core supported the provision of services to and advocacy for older adults and their caregivers. In 1998, she and her family moved to the Charlotte area, and she became the administrator of Sardis Oaks, part of Atrium Health. For 20 years, she held various senior administrative roles at Atrium Health including Senior Vice-President of Post-Acute Care Services and Chief Patient Experience Officer.
In recent years, Connie gained valuable experience serving individuals with dementia and/or Parkinson’s Disease and their families as Executive Director of Memory & Movement Charlotte (2018-2020). She then gained a deep understanding of how social determinants of health create health disparities and co-created solutions as a Population Health Strategy Lead with Humana, Inc. (2020-2024) Connie retired from full-time employment in early 2024. Even though she has enjoyed a year of traveling with her husband and friends, spoiling grandkids, spending more time with her mother, volunteering through her church and exploring her neighborhood on foot, she is excited about returning to her lifelong passion of active advocacy for older adults and their caregivers.
Ashton earned her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2013. Following graduation, she obtained her North Carolina Skilled Nursing Administrator’s license.
With over 10 years of experience, Ashton has served as an Administrator in multiple long-term care communities, overseeing the daily operations of Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living, and Memory Care facilities.
A native of Cherryville, NC, Ashton now resides in Charlotte, NC. Her passion for senior care began at an early age, inspired by her grandmother, who owned and operated a long-term care community in Cherryville. Ashton is excited to continue her journey in serving seniors as a care manager.
Leah received her Masters in Human Development and Learning at UNC Charlotte in 1991. She returned for more graduate work in Gerontology in 2014. She is a Certified Dementia Practitioner and Certified Care Manager.
Leah has worked with older adults, supporting caregivers, and those living with dementia since 2014. Her professional experience includes time as a substance abuse counselor and Montessori teacher. She has had many years of leading support groups, including the Caregiver TLC Program through UNC Charlotte. Leah is a proud member of the Aging Life Care Association.
As a care manager, Leah loves helping people find solutions and supporting them in the process. She wants the families she works with to feel heard, respected, and live with dignity.
Kylie received her Master’s degree in Gerontology at the University of Florida and her Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology at West Virginia University.
Her professional experience includes work as a Memory Care Director and Dementia Educator—providing care management, engaging enrichment programs, support, education, and advocacy to her clients and families. Most recently, Kylie was the Executive Director for her local County Council on Aging, providing supportive services designed to enable seniors to age in place.
As an advocate for seniors and their loved ones, Kylie enjoys thinking outside of the box to navigate the intricacies of senior care options and prides herself in approaching each client with a positive attitude and a readiness to help!
Jen received her BA in Economics from Hollins University and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Gerontology from UNC-Greensboro.
With 20 years of experience in real estate, Jen has specialized in helping older adults navigate the market, particularly those who haven’t bought or sold a home in decades. In more recent years, she has expanded her passion and knowledge for the aging population by obtaining a CNA-1 certification and has been providing compassionate, private in-home care to older adults who wish to age in place.
Driven by a strong commitment to supporting the aging population, Jen combines her expertise in real estate and caregiving to offer a unique blend of services. Outside of her professional life, she is an avid athlete and nutrition enthusiast. Jen has coached CrossFit for five years and has completed two Half Ironman competitions, a 100-mile endurance run, and numerous ultra marathons, including her favorite—a 100k race in New Zealand.
Susan received her Masters in Social Work at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1993 with a concentration in mental health. The North Carolina Social Work Certification and Licensure Board has certified Susan as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She currently serves on the Board of Social Advisors for the UNC School of Social Work.
Her professional experience includes work as a Care Coordinator-providing referrals, establishing care teams, supportive therapy and educational programming. Susan has co-facilitated support groups for both caregivers and those experiencing grief and loss. Her community involvement includes volunteering with public education, affordable housing and scouting.
Susan is a Professional Member of the Aging Life Care Association.
Chanel received her Master’s in Gerontology at UNC Charlotte and her undergraduate degree in Business Management at Clark Atlanta University. She later obtained her North Carolina Administrators License in 2023.
Chanel’s professional background consists of over 14 years in senior living, sales and marketing, banking, higher education, and business development. She started her career in senior living as a Memory Care Director, specializing in dementia care and training. This experience allowed her to better understand the industry and needs of not only the residents but their families as well.
Chanel takes pride in her dedication to her clients with patience, attention to detail, personal touches, and compassion. She is an advocate for seniors and quickly builds strong relationships with clients and professionals alike.
Lisa earned her RN degree from Mercy College of NW Ohio and has over a decade of experience in dementia nursing. Her experience includes serving as the Health & Wellness Manager at The Ivey, working as a case manager at Hospice, and most recently, serving as Dr. Chaconas’ nurse at Memory & Movement Charlotte. Working with patients with various levels of cognitive impairment has equipped Lisa with the ability to help families navigate the caregiving journey.
Lisa serves clients primarily in the South Charlotte / Rock Hill / Fort Mill areas of NC & SC.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, staying active outdoors, exercising, and vacationing at the beach or in the mountains.
Ashlyn received her Master of Healthcare Administration and Master of Public Health degrees from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. With a Graduate Certificate in Gerontology, she brings a wealth of knowledge and interest in the field of aging to our team.
Ashlyn is a Greensboro native and now resides in Charlotte. She joined our team in 2022 as an Assistant Care Manager and was promoted to Care Manager in 2023.
Ashlyn became nationally certified as a care manager by the National Academy of Certified Care Managers in 2024.
Allyson received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 1986. Her professional experience spans 30 years of patient care in Charlotte, with focus in oncology, obstetrics/gynecology and dermatology. Her roles have included primary care, triage, patient education, and health care coordination with both physicians and specialists. More recently, she served as part of Novant’s COVID screening and care teams in multiple locations throughout Charlotte.
During her career, and in support of family members, she has developed a passion for caregiving in the aging process. She brings a personable, high-energy approach to her patients, establishing relationships with patients and families to ensure a clear understanding of patient needs.
Allyson believes that peace of mind in the aging requires planning, coordination and emotional support, and she’s excited to be part of the Caregiving Corner team.
Lindsay Kievit received her Doctorate Degree in Physical Therapy from Ithaca College in 2008. Throughout her career, Lindsay has worked in a variety of settings, including outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities, and assisted living facilities. With a strong foundation in geriatric rehabilitation, Lindsay provides individualized care that addresses the unique physical challenges of aging including helping older adults achieve improved mobility, independence, and quality of life.
Lindsay is known for her empathetic approach and commitment to building trusting relationships with patients and families. She takes the time to educate patients about their conditions, empowering them with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health and wellness.
Above all, Lindsay is driven by a passion for helping older adults live healthier, more active lives, and is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of each individual she works with.
Ginny Sloan received her Master of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2004. She is licensed in NC as a clinical social worker (LCSW) and certified dementia practitioner.
Her professional experience includes serving as a crisis counselor in the mental health clinic and as a case manager and discharge planner in the inpatient hospital setting. Most recently, she has worked in primary care providing wellness counseling and caregiver support, connecting patients and families with resources, and co-facilitating a grief support group. Ginny enjoys working with families to find solutions and navigate the complexities of healthcare and aging.
Kristin received her Bachelor’s in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2005. She currently serves on the School Advisory Board for the UNCC School of Social Work and has also served as a practicum supervisor for BSW students since 2015. She is a certified dementia practitioner.
Kristin has worked with older adults since 2005 and served as a social worker at a large continuing care retirement community for the majority of that time. She practiced in all levels of care during her time there, focusing on care planning and discharge planning for short-term rehab clients. For the past year, she has worked as a community social worker/elder advocate attached to an elder law firm serving clients in NC & SC.
In this role, she provided care management, placement support, and assisted families and clients in connecting with community resources and programs. Kristin is excited to bring her passion for helping older adults and their families access support & resources to her role as a care manager with Caregiving Corner.
Deborah graduated from Appalachian State University with a Masters degree in Education and a Bachelors degree in Special Education with a focus in psychology. Her undergraduate studies at Queens College encompassed Music Therapy.
Deborah has taught school, developed a special education program for a missions school abroad and served as an activities coordinator for a dementia day program at a prestigious retirement community in Charlotte.
Deborah brings a personal touch to our clients with her music and art abilities and specializes in bringing creative fun and connections to our clients through outings and one-on-one time spent exploring each individual’s varying interests and needs.
Ashley Brooks received her Master of Arts degree in Community Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2001.She recently joined the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care managers as an Associate Care Manager and is currently pursuing her license to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
Her professional experience includes counseling, chaplaincy services, crisis, emergency & trauma services, consulting in patient care, conducting assessments, locating community resources & research services, and assisting individuals who are dealing with grief and loss.Ashley’s commitment to our firm’s clients is to provide methods and resources to generate personalized solutions that can restore balance in your life.She will be with you every step of the way while you navigate the challenges that arise in taking care of a loved one.
Ashley is a Professional Member of the Aging Life Care Association
Courtney Peterson earned her Master of Social Work degree in 2010 and is a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate (LCSWA). Her diverse professional background includes internships with the Guardian Ad Litem program, a local high school’s social work department, a nonprofit educational organization, and most recently, a neurology practice serving individuals with dementia and/or movement disorders.
A natural people person, Courtney approaches her work with genuine warmth and empathy, helping individuals navigate life’s transitional moments with confidence and care. She has a deep understanding of the unique challenges caregivers face and is dedicated to offering meaningful support throughout their journey.
Jennifer T. Szakaly, MA, CMC, NMG attended UNC-Charlotte and earned her Master of Arts in Gerontology in 2002.
Rachael received her Master of Public Health from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro and her Bachelors degree in public health and gerontology at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Rachael has worked in the aging industry in many different capacities. She utilizes her knowledge and passion to positively impact the lives of others.
and she became the administrator of Sardis Oaks, part of Atrium Health. For 20 years, she held various senior administrative roles at Atrium Health including Senior Vice-President of Post-Acute Care Services and Chief Patient Experience Officer.
With 20 years of experience in real estate, Jen has specialized in helping older adults navigate the market, particularly those who haven’t bought or sold a home in decades. In more recent years, she has expanded her passion and knowledge for the aging population by obtaining a CNA-1 certification and has been providing compassionate, private in-home care to older adults who wish to age in place.
Chanel’s professional background consists of over 14 years in senior living, sales and marketing, banking, higher education, and business development. She started her career in senior living as a Memory Care Director, specializing in dementia care and training. This experience allowed her to better understand the industry and needs of not only the residents but their families as well.
Lisa earned her RN degree from Mercy College of NW Ohio and has over a decade of experience in dementia nursing. Her experience includes serving as the Health & Wellness Manager at The Ivey, working as a case manager at Hospice, and most recently, serving as Dr. Chaconas’ nurse at Memory & Movement Charlotte. Working with patients with various levels of cognitive impairment has equipped Lisa with the ability to help families navigate the caregiving journey.
Bio coming soon!
Ashlyn received her Master of Healthcare Administration and Master of Public Health degrees from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. With a Graduate Certificate in Gerontology, she brings a wealth of knowledge and interest in the field of aging to our team.
Her professional experience spans 30 years of patient care in Charlotte, with focus in oncology, obstetrics/gynecology and dermatology. Her roles have included primary care, triage, patient education, and health care coordination with both physicians and specialists.
With a strong foundation in geriatric rehabilitation, Lindsay provides individualized care that addresses the unique physical challenges of aging including helping older adults achieve improved mobility, independence, and quality of life.
Deborah graduated from Appalachian State University with a Masters degree in Education and a Bachelors degree in Special Education with a focus in psychology. Her undergraduate studies at Queens College encompassed Music Therapy.
Ashley Brooks received her Master of Arts degree in Community Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2001.She recently joined the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care managers as an Associate Care Manager and is currently pursuing her license to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
Courtney Peterson earned her Master of Social Work degree in 2010 and is a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate (LCSWA). Her diverse professional background includes internships with the Guardian Ad Litem program, a local high school’s social work department, a nonprofit educational organization, and most recently, a neurology practice serving individuals with dementia and/or movement disorders.
