Alabama Social Worker Makes a Big Difference for the Elderly and Disabled
Kaylan Jacobs, an Alabama social worker, has received the Alabama Spirit of Adult Protective Services Award for 2024 for her dedication to helping elderly and disabled adults. Learn about her contributions and the impact of her work.
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Kaylan Jacobs, a social worker from the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR), has been honored for her outstanding work with elderly and disabled adults. She received the Alabama Spirit of Adult Protective Services Award for 2024.
Jacobs, who works in Chilton County, was recognized for several key contributions. She helped open the first adult foster home in the county and started a special program that provides gifts and cards to clients during Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day. Many individuals, businesses, and clubs contribute to this program each year.
Nancy Buckner, Commissioner of Alabama DHR, praised Jacobs’ dedication, saying, “Kaylan’s commitment to protecting the dignity of vulnerable seniors shows true love in action.” The Spirit of APS award honors both her achievements and the lives she has positively impacted in Alabama.
The Adult Protective Services Division of DHR collaborates with local offices to shield elderly and disabled adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation while working to prevent unnecessary institutionalization.
Jacobs earned her bachelor’s degree in social work from UAB in 2011 and her master’s degree from the University of Alabama in 2019. She began her career at the Shelby County DHR Child Welfare Division in 2011, later working in nursing homes and a hospice facility, including during the 2020 pandemic.
The isolation faced by residents during the pandemic inspired Jacobs to enhance her efforts. She built strong relationships with local attorneys, the court system, the Chilton County sheriff’s office, hospitals, nursing homes, and other agencies to support vulnerable adults.
Marilyn Colson, Chilton County DHR Director, commented, “Her work is a beautiful reminder that true strength lies not in physical power, but in the compassion we show.”
Jacobs is also a nominee for the Spirit of the National Adult Protective Services Association Award, which will be announced in September.
