Hospice social worker Nathan Yemane is meeting the needs of his community by opening the first black-owned hospice agency in Washington State and carrying on his father’s legacy of service. Nathan grew up in Washington, has his masters in Social Work, and in 2013 obtained his clinical license in social work. He has worked in healthcare since 2010, primarily in the hospice field. Nathan and his business partner David Turner were awarded a Certificate of Need approval from the DOH to establish the first Black-owned hospice in Washington State. Nathan recognized the end of life needs of people of color in King County.  Studies show African Americans have the highest mortality rate from 3 of the most common 4 hospice diagnoses, and yet utilization of hospice is reduced. As an agency owner, Nathan is serving his community in a unique way. Opening a hospice agency in Washington State takes numerous steps, resulting in the awarding of a Certificate of Need by the state. It’s a grueling process, but Nathan and his team were patient and persistent.  He’s passionate about educating and serving the people of King County and correcting the racial disparity among hospice patients. Read more about Nathan Yemane’s agency here.  Connect with Nathan’s agency Heart ‘n Soul Hospice at heartnsoulhospice.com.  Interested in purchasing a GrandPad for a loved one?  Click here. Get information about GrandPad purchases for your facility or agency here. Find more information about hospice philosophy, end of life care, and self care for both personal and professional caregivers here.  Find more podcast episodes from The Heart of Hospice at The Heart of Hospice Podcast (theheartofhospice.com) Connect with podcast host Helen Bauer at helen@theheartofhospice.com. Book podcast host Helen Bauer to speak at your event or conference by sending an email to helen@theheartofhospice.com.