INELDA Marks a Milestone in End-of-Life Care
The International End-of-Life Doula Association (INELDA) is proudly celebrating its impressive tenth anniversary. This notable year signifies a decade dedicated to enhancing compassionate care for individuals, families, and communities as they navigate the complexities of death and dying.
Training Doulas Across the Globe
Since its inception, INELDA has trained over 9,000 end-of-life doulas in every state and territory of the U.S., and in 56 countries around the globe. With a member base exceeding 2,300, the organization has established a significant presence not only in the United States but also in Europe, Central and South America, and Asia. Remarkably, INELDA has distributed more than $350,000 in scholarships aimed at enhancing training and resources in underserved communities. This initiative ensures that individuals from diverse backgrounds receive essential support with cultural humility and equity.
Honoring Contributions in the Deathcare Field
In recognition of this momentous occasion, INELDA has established its inaugural awards to acknowledge two remarkable contributors in the realm of deathcare:
Empath Health's Innovative Approach
Empath Health has been awarded the INELDA Outstanding Community Partner Award. This organization leads the way in healthcare exclusively focused on end-of-life support through creativity, collaboration, and integrating trained end-of-life doulas into its comprehensive care model. As one of the largest nonprofit health systems in the country committed to hospice, palliative, and home health care, Empath Health is instrumental in ensuring dignity, comfort, and connections for patients and their families during one of life's most challenging times. By adopting a holistic approach, they provide extensive care for every stage of life.
Wilka Roig's Transformative Contributions
Wilka Roig, MA, MFA, PLC, has been honored with the INELDA Pathmaker Award. A transpersonal psychotherapist, artist, educator, and leader, her reach extends across numerous countries, languages, and communities, positively impacting thousands each year through her clinical work and leadership programs. As the founder of Fundación Elisabeth Kübler-Ross México Centro and cofounder of two significant educational initiatives, Wilka has dedicated her efforts to promoting the end-of-life doula movement throughout Latin America and globally since her training with INELDA in 2017.
Reflections on Evolving Care
According to Doug Simpson, executive director of INELDA, “These awards reflect the significant evolution of the deathcare field over the past decade. Initially, there were just a few organizations working on end-of-life care. Currently, we’ve formed a vibrant global community that is changing the landscape of how we approach death and the care surrounding it. Moving forward, we anticipate that the next decade will usher in more innovations in healthcare. INELDA is steadfastly committed to increasing access to compassionate and equitable deathcare for everyone.”
About INELDA
INELDA is a mission-driven nonprofit organization established in 2015. It is dedicated to aiding individuals and their communities in planning and implementing end-of-life practices. By providing education, resources, community support, and advocacy, INELDA aims to cultivate social awareness and promote accessible, compassionate deathcare, while highlighting the essential roles of end-of-life doulas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of INELDA?
INELDA's mission is to support individuals and their families through the end-of-life process by providing education and resources about doula care.
How many doulas has INELDA trained?
INELDA has trained over 9,000 end-of-life doulas in the United States and around the world.
What awards has INELDA established to honor contributors?
INELDA has launched its inaugural awards, recognizing Empath Health as the Outstanding Community Partner and Wilka Roig with the Pathmaker Award.
What significant impact has INELDA made financially?
INELDA has awarded more than $350,000 in scholarships to enhance training and resources in underserved communities.
What future aspirations does INELDA have?
INELDA aims to continue expanding access to compassionate deathcare while fostering growth and innovation in the healthcare sector over the next decade.
