FTAAAD Receives First-Ever Rural Resiliency Award from the Rural Health Association of Tennessee

Dawson Dale, Rural Health Association of Tennessee's Membership and Marketing Director, with Angie Gwaltney, Director of the Area Agency on Aging & Disability

The First Tennessee Area Agency on Aging and Disability (FTAAAD) has been honored with the inaugural Rural Resiliency Award from the Rural Health Association of Tennessee. The award was presented during the 2025 Rural Health Association Conference, where Angie Gwaltney accepted the recognition on behalf of FTAAAD.

This new statewide award was established to honor organizations that demonstrate exceptional leadership, coordination, and commitment to community wellbeing in times of crisis. FTAAAD was selected based on its remarkable response to Hurricane Helene, which brought widespread damage and disruption to rural communities across Northeast Tennessee.

Under the leadership of Angie Gwaltney, FTAAAD mobilized quickly to support older adults, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities—many of whom were among the hardest hit by the storm. The team coordinated emergency resources, conducted wellness checks, partnered with local agencies, and ensured continuity of critical services for vulnerable residents. Their efforts exemplified the spirit of rural resilience: communities standing together and neighbors helping neighbors.

FTAAAD’s work during and after Hurricane Helene resulted in life-sustaining support for hundreds of residents, strengthened community partnerships, and improved readiness for future emergencies. The Rural Resiliency Award underscores the agency’s role as a trusted resource and steadfast advocate for the region’s aging and disabled citizens.

Congratulations to Angie and the entire team for this well-deserved honor, and we extend our gratitude to the Rural Health Association of Tennessee for recognizing the essential work happening across rural counties in the wake of disaster.

Angie Gwaltney alongside Mike Harrison and members of the Rural Health Association of Tennessee staff.