Messiah University, Grantham, has announced a new educational partnership with Messiah Lifeways, a nonprofit organization that provides a comprehensive network of senior community services and residential communities.

The partnership between the two entities will facilitate collaboration on the training and development of the next generation of certified nursing assistants (CNAs); provide continuing education opportunities for Messiah Lifeways employees; allow Messiah University students to serve, garner professional experiences in a long-term care setting, and gain an understanding of ministry in the aging population; and work together on mutually beneficial opportunities for research that advances evidence-based practice.

Central to this new agreement is addressing the current crisis in staffing needs in long-term care and nursing homes. The opportunities to support and work in the senior living industry are more needed today than ever before. LeadingAge, a nation-wide community of nonprofit aging services providers and other mission-driven organizations serving older adults, suggests that as many as 8.2 million staffing jobs in long-term care will need to be filled by 2028 as the U.S. population ages.

Messiah University and Messiah Lifeways have collaborated throughout their respective histories. Both institutions trace their roots back to the Brethren in Christ Church and to Harrisburg. To learn more, visit http://www.messiah.edu or http://www.messiahlifeways.org.