Mission

Founder and President, Communicare

Denise Calhoun is the founder and President of Communicare. She is a researcher in gerontology and healthcare, and has published articles in various academic journals, including Educational Gerontology and the Journal of Adult and Continuing Education. She is also the author of Changing Seasons: A Language Arts Curriculum for Healthy Aging published by Purdue University Press.

Denise holds a B.A. in history from UCLA and additionally received a teaching credential from their graduate department of education. She also has a M.A. from California State University, Northridge and a doctor of education degree from Pepperdine University as well as a Ph.D. in their Global Leadership program. 

As an educator for many years, Denise is recognized in the field of education and gerontology as a strategic thinker, trainer, and advocate of strong communication channels and is National Board Certified as a distinguished teacher in Language Arts. She has served as a master teacher for California State University Northridge where she trained candidates for their credential program and mentored new teachers for the Los Angeles Unified School District. Denise is also the CEO of Calhoun Communications, a consulting firm that promotes effective communication within care communities.

Board Member, Communicare

Seung B. Lee is a member of the board of directors for Communicare. He is an Assistant Professor of Education at Pepperdine University in the Graduate School of Education and Psychology. Seung's research focuses on collaborative learning, online interactions, socio-cognitive processes and creativity among K-12 students, particularly in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education context.

Seung holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from U.C. Berkeley, a master's degree in international affairs from Columbia University, and a Ph.D. in global leadership and change from Pepperdine University. His previous professional experiences include policy research and program management roles with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and nonprofit foundations in Korea and the U.S.

Board Member, Communicare

Linda Mac Dougall is a holistic health practitioner, author, speaker, trainer/educator, and massage therapist specializing in seniors and the disabled. She brings decades of experience working with our developmentally disabled and mentally ill to now serving an aging population.  Observing and assessing attitudes, environments, and special needs is key in her work.

Linda's M.A. in Counseling Psychology increases the understanding of various challenges faced by maturing adults. She worked her way up from direct care worker to becoming an administrator of two group homes. Then came her time as a federal advocate for Hawaii’s developmentally disabled, where both she and Hawaii gained knowledge that served her clients well after she left. 

Some of Linda's podcasts are on her website, www.loveyourlongevity.com, under the media tab.  Recommendations for her book, “The SPIRIT Method of Massage for Seniors…Raising the Bar…A Primer for Massage Therapists and Caregivers”,  are available on Amazon as well as on her website.

Communicare Volunteer

"Hello, my name is Sergio Melendez Oseguera. If I were to describe myself in three words, they would be: caring, generous, and kind. I first came across Communicare through my capstone project at California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI). It was the start of a journey and experience that I will never forget. 

Before the workshop began, I had a general idea of what it would be about, as they had given me a rundown beforehand. Still, I felt a bit anxious, as it was a completely new experience for me. My role was to assist Denise, Seung, and the participants in any way possible, including setting up equipment, preparing computers, and providing support during the exercises. If participants needed help understanding the activities, I was there to clarify and guide them as best as I could. 

The purpose of the workshop was to teach older adults how to use technology and to show them that it’s never too late to learn. Also, even though it’s important to express this, it is just as important to make learning enjoyable. Personally, I believe this workshop is a wonderful idea because it not only helps older adults become more confident in using technology but also empowers them to stay connected in today’s digital world."

Communicare Volunteer

"Hello, my name is Gracie Lake. If I were to  describe myself in a few words, I would say that I am driven, compassionate, and curious. I graduated in May 2026 from CSU Channel Islands with my Bachelor’s of Health Science and a minor in Psychology. I am continuing my education at CSU Channel Islands, where I am starting my master’s program in Healthcare Administration with a certification in  Gerontology, and I expect to graduate in 2028.

My journey with Communicare began through the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship  Program (SURF) and continued with my senior capstone, where I had the  opportunity to engage in meaningful, community-based research and build  strong connections with mentors. Through these experiences, I developed a deeper understanding of the importance of accessible, personalized care and the impact that community initiatives can have in expanding access to essential resources and support.

Being involved with Communicare has strengthened my passion for healthcare administration and reinforced my commitment to improving the quality of care for diverse communities, particularly older adults. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to work that makes a  meaningful difference."

Communicare Volunteer

"Hi! My name is Alexandra Clarke, and I am passionate about helping others learn, grow, and feel supported in their communities. I earned my BA in Organizational Communications from CSU Channel Islands in 2024, and I am continuing my education through Moorpark College while pursuing a master’s degree in psychology.

I first became involved with Communicare as a volunteer and later grew into the role of facilitator. Through this experience, I discovered how meaningful it can be to learn alongside others while helping create a welcoming and encouraging environment for participants of all levels.

I especially enjoy bringing creativity, fresh ideas, and positive energy into the classes while supporting community members as they build confidence and explore new interests. My experiences with Communicare have strengthened both my communication skills and passion for helping others feel connected, heard, and empowered.

I look forward to continuing working with Communicare and supporting individuals in ways that inspire lifelong learning and personal growth."

Communicare Intern

"Hi! I’m Erica Villanueva, MSW, and I’m incredibly excited to join Communicare and be part of a mission that values connection, compassion, and community. I’m currently a doctoral candidate in Learning Technology at  Pepperdine University GSEP, where my research focuses on aging, emotional well-being, and how technology can support meaningful human connection for older adults.

As a social worker, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with older adults, caregivers, and assisted living communities throughout Los Angeles County. Those experiences have deepened my passion for advocacy, relationship-centered care, and creating spaces where older adults feel seen, heard, and valued.

I’m especially passionate about exploring innovative and compassionate approaches to aging services, including socially assistive technology, intergenerational connection, and programs that help reduce loneliness and isolation. I believe care should always be rooted in dignity, empathy, and genuine human connection.

Joining Communicare feels especially meaningful because it aligns so closely with both my professional goals and personal values. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to learn, contribute, and grow alongside a team that is making such a positive impact in the community."

Communicare Volunteer

"Kumusta…Greetings! My name is Lorrine Erica Punto and I am a recent graduate from CSU Channel Islands with a bachelor’s degree in health science. One of the most meaningful parts of my academic experience was helping to facilitate Communicare’s tech series that introduced older adults to artificial intelligence and ChatGPT through my senior capstone project.

Working directly with participants gave me the opportunity to see how technology can foster connection, curiosity, and lifelong learning among older adults. I especially enjoyed creating an encouraging space where participants felt comfortable asking questions, exploring new tools, and engaging in thoughtful conversations with others.

Through this experience, I developed an even greater appreciation for community-centered programs that support older adults while bridging generational gaps through technology. Being part of Communicare has reinforced my passion for helping others feel empowered, supported, and connected through learning."

Communicare Volunteer

"Hi there! My name is Katherine Reese, and I recently earned my degree in Emerging Media, where I explored how technology can be used to bring people together and strengthen communication. Through my studies, I developed a passion for helping others feel more confident using digital tools and online platforms.

I would describe myself as patient, caring, and encouraging. I enjoy creating welcoming learning environments  where individuals feel comfortable asking questions and exploring new technology at their own pace. I believe technology has the power to reduce isolation and help people stay connected with loved ones and their communities.

I first learned about Communicare through Maria Morales at the Goodwill Foundation. When I heard about the opportunity to assist with Zoom classes, lectures, and social media support, I was immediately interested. I recognized how valuable platforms like Zoom and Instagram can be in helping older adults communicate, engage socially, and remain connected in today’s digital world.

What inspires me most about Communicare’s mission is the opportunity to empower older adults through technology education. I am passionate about helping others build confidence with digital tools while fostering a positive, creative, and supportive atmosphere for learning.

I am excited to be part of an organization that encourages connection, growth, and lifelong learning, and I look forward to helping older adults feel empowered through technology."