The Home and Community Care Block Grant Advisory Committee convened on September 24, 2025, in Buncombe County, North Carolina, to discuss pressing issues related to aging services and community care. The meeting highlighted the challenges faced by social services and the need for improved communication among service providers.

The discussion began with concerns about the effectiveness of existing programs aimed at supporting elderly individuals and their families. One committee member expressed uncertainty about the current state of the Council on Aging's initiatives, noting that while they had previously done well, there were doubts about their ongoing effectiveness. This led to a broader conversation about the need for mediation services for families dealing with guardianship issues, particularly when conflicts arise among siblings over elderly parents. The member pointed out that existing programs often focus solely on children, leaving a gap in services for older adults.

The committee explored the idea of integrating information sharing between programs that assist different age groups, suggesting that many challenges faced by families are similar regardless of the age of the individuals involved. This prompted a discussion on the committee's role in advocating for better collaboration among social service providers, especially given the high demand and low staffing levels within the system.

A significant point raised was the need for professional networking among social workers to enhance communication and idea exchange. One member recalled a poignant remark from a community health worker, emphasizing that progress in social services often feels slow and incremental, akin to "emptying the ocean a bucket at a time."

The meeting also addressed the disappointment surrounding the cancellation of the Skynav project, an initiative designed to create an AI platform for caregivers to access reliable information easily. This project was seen as a valuable resource that could have streamlined support for caregivers.

In conclusion, the committee recognized the importance of fostering communication among grantees and service providers. They discussed the Buncombe Aging Services Alliance (BASA), which facilitates quarterly meetings for aging services providers to network and share insights. The committee's ongoing efforts will focus on enhancing collaboration and addressing the systemic challenges faced by social services in Buncombe County.