Alternative Care Options, Accessing Available Resources, & Developing Support Plans with Dr. Bashir Easter

Dr. Bashir Easter joins host Ron Aaron and co-host Carol Zernial to talk about guidance on alternative care options, accessing available resources, and developing comprehensive support plans on this edition of Caregiver SOS. About Dr. Easter Dr. Bashir Easter Founder & CEO, Melanin Minded LLC & Melanin Minded Foundation Dr. Bashir Easter is an esteemed scholar, entrepreneur, and community leader dedicated to improving the quality of life for people of color. As the founder of Melanin Minded LLC and the Melanin Minded Foundation, Dr. Easter has established a vital resource that serves to bridge the gap in information, services, and support for marginalized communities. His overarching mission is to empower and equip people of color with the tools and knowledge necessary to achieve optimal quality of life, particularly in the face of societal challenges and disparities. Dr. Easter earned his PhD in Multidisciplinary Human Services from Capella University, where he published significant research on the experiences of African American adolescents caring for relatives with dementia. His groundbreaking qualitative study titled, “African American adolescents’ experiences caring for a relative with Dementia, underscores the unique challenges faced by young caregivers in communities of color and highlights the urgent need for tailored support systems. In addition to his doctoral studies, Dr. Easter holds an MBA from Concordia University and a BS from Cardinal Stritch University. His academic journey began with an Associate of Science degree in business management from the Milwaukee Area Technical College, providing him with a solid foundation in both practical and theoretical frameworks essential for his work in social services and community development. In his commitment to enhancing community health and wellness, Dr. Easter has pioneered an innovative initiative in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, aimed at creating Dementia-Friendly Communities specifically designed for communities of color. This initiative, known as Dementia Villages, seeks to address the specialized needs of individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. By fostering environments that are not only supportive but also inclusive, Dr. Easter’s project is a transformative step toward recognizing and validating the experiences of families affected by dementia in historically underserved areas. Through Melanin Minded, Dr. Easter continues to advocate for systemic change, fostering partnerships and collaborations that emphasize culturally relevant resources and interventions. His vision is clear: to create a society where every individual, regardless of their background, has access to the information and support needed to navigate life's challenges with dignity and strength. With a passion for service and a dedication to advancing social equity, Dr. Bashir Easter is a trailblazer in his field, leading by example and inspiring others to join the movement toward inclusive and comprehensive community care. His work not only addresses immediate needs but also lays the groundwork for sustainable change within communities of color, ensuring that all voices are heard and that all lives are valued  Hosts Ron Aaron and Carol Zernial, and their guests talk about Caregiving and how to best cope with the stresses associated with it. Learn about "Caregiver SOS" and the "Teleconnection Hotline" programs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.