Aisling has a vision of a healthy society where the safe and healthy choice is the easy choice. Where people’s needs are taken care of, to the point that self-actualization is an option for all, in particular for those who are often left behind. Where policies and practice are guided by love, care, and compassion. 

Inside of this vision, Aisling has experience ranging from direct support, to faculty, to project management, all within a salutogenic (well-being focused) health model.

Prior to joining the Virginia Center on Aging, she spent eight years working in an international role at a UNESCO appointed center based in Ireland, which had the added the bonus of satisfying her love for travel, diversity and intercultural experiences.  There she both partnered on and managed numerous grant-funded transnational projects, working towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals - in particular those related to inclusion, well-being, and healthy communities. She has extensive experience across the grant life-cycle, from grant writing and conception through to implementation and reporting. 

Aisling is bringing her experience and passion to the Virginia Center on Aging, where she is Project Manager on the Abuse in Later Life Project’s Virginia Helping Elders Access Resources (HEAR) grant. In partnership with the the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitation Services’ No Wrong Door, Virginia HEAR aims to educate older adults, caregivers, front-line professionals, and aging services staff on how to recognize and prevent elder abuse and ageism, through linking systems of care, and guiding those in need to local and State programs and services across Virginia.

When she’s not working, you may find Aisling enjoying the Richmond outdoors with her husband and beloved dog, guiding online meditations, or in the garden working on her “green fingers.”