Providence PACE Celebrates 35 Years of Care

Providence PACE, one of the first On Lok expansion sites in the national Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) model, proudly celebrated its 35th anniversary with a special event held at its original location—Providence PACE Laurelhurst. The celebration also unveiled the program’s new name, transitioning from “Providence ElderPlace” to “Providence PACE,” and adopting Providence Health and Services refreshed brand identity.

Since opening its first location in Multnomah County with just 29 participants, Providence PACE has expanded to eight centers serving five counties and caring for more than 2,000 older adults.

“We are deeply grateful to have had the opportunity to support so many older adults and their families over the past 35 years,” said Susan Tuller, Chief of PACE. “While we’ve grown and evolved, what hasn’t changed is our unwavering focus: providing exceptional, person-centered care that helps older adults live with dignity, purpose, and connection in the place they call home.”

The event brought together more than 75 attendees, including longtime staff and community partners, which reflected a portion of the event’s blessing: a shared hope that “our work be woven in collaboration with our community partners, always striving for excellent care and best practices.” Special guests included: a representative from the office of Rep. Rob Nosse (House District 42) and four caregivers honored for 30+ years with Providence PACE.

Key Program Impact:

• 100% of Providence PACE participants meet nursing home level of care.
• 99% are maintained in community settings and not in nursing homes.
• 80% live in facilities such as assisted living and adult foster homes.
• 19% continue living safely at home with in-home support.
• The average participant age is 77.

“Behind every number is a life—a family—a caregiver who can breathe easier knowing their loved one is supported by a full team,” said Cindy Noordijk, Senior Director of Quality. “This celebration honors them all.”

As the program continues into its fourth decade, Providence PACE remains committed to expanding access, strengthening partnerships, and delivering compassionate, integrated care—wherever participants call home.

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Established in 1990, Providence PACE Oregon is part of the national Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, or PACE. PACE is designed to assist older adults who are eligible for nursing home level of care but wish to live in a community setting. Providence PACE coordinates and provides needed preventive, primary, acute, and long-term care services for frail elders. Providence PACE supports independence and dignity through an integrated interdisciplinary team who develop and provide person-centered care plans. This network of care includes medical care, nursing services, rehabilitation therapy, social work, behavioral health, medications, medical equipment, transportation, and end of life care.