HISTORY
Caregiver's Outreach Mentorship Empowerment, Inc. (COME) is a not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) charitable organization that was founded in 2006 by Mrs. Diane Cooper, a Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience in community health. She founded this organization as a direct result of her own experiences as a family caregiver to her father, Mr. Leon David Simmons. At times, the turmoil that she experienced was a result of the conflict between her role as a professional caregiver vs her role as a family caregiver. Prior promises and commitments that she had made to him were broken for the benefit of his safety, protection and quality of life. For the first time she felt she could empathize with what family caregivers were experiencing.
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From her role as a family caregiver Mrs. Cooper realized that there was a need for caregiver education and support in local communities. So she decided to take part in the solution to provide family caregivers with accessible information, resources and support services. To provide caregivers with hope as they undertake the daily challenges of caring for a loved one. Most of all, through her organization COME she endeavors to promote the importance of self care while caring for others; because caregivers need caring too. Recognition and appreciation of the role of family caregivers is the ultimate goal to let caregivers know that they are not alone.
Although no longer a caregiver to her father Mrs. Cooper cared for her husband John Cooper for over 15 years. She continues to keep abreast of issues and concerns of family caregivers. As well as educate legislators, public officials, and the general public about the implications of public policy and legislative proposals for the quality of life of family caregivers and their loved ones.
Mission
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To educate and equip family caregivers with accessible resources and knowledge to make a comfortable decision for their loved ones.
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To equip leaders with the tools necessary to support family caregivers.
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To educate the community on the needs and challenges of family caregivers.
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To advocate with decision makers for changes to public policy.
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Vision
To prepare family caregivers with the tools necessary to successfully navigate the challenges associated with caregiving while maintaining self care.
Awards & Recognition
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34th Annual Black Nurses Day, "Outstanding Service To Humanity"
February 25, 2022
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Citywide Behavioral Health Coalition For Black Elder, INC. "Eleanor Bumpurs Award"
November 20, 2021
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​Delta Sigma Theta Sorority “Standing On Their Shoulders” Award
March 2014
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Caregiver Community Action Network (CCAN) 2008
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Congressional Record recognition from Congressman Eliot Engel
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Proclamation for National Family Caregivers Month in the Bronx from The Bronx Borough Ruben Diaz Jr. November 17, 2010
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Citation from Marty Markowitz, Brooklyn Borough President
December 4, 2010
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The New York Club of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc.,
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“Those Who Dared” 81st Annual Founders’ Day Sojourner Truth 2009 Award
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The Learning Disability Support Center of New York, Inc,
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2009 Keys To Success recognition V.I.P. program
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Citation for Dedication and Service from the New York Senator,
Ruth Hassell-Thomas November 8, 2008
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COME In The Community
