AtlantiCare 2025 Annual Report

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How Animals Deliver Comfort and Safety A “Tail” of Two Programs

Carmen and Donna Romeo: Generously Supporting Health and Community in Atlantic City Carmen and Donna Romeo are making a meaningful difference in the lives of Atlantic City residents through philanthropy and deep commitment to community health. Seasonal residents of Longport, the Romeos recognize that just miles from their home, many families in Atlantic City face significant challenges and are in need of vital services. Their desire to help inspired an initial gift to the AtlantiCare Foundation in 2024. As they continued to learn more about the challenges in Atlantic City, their desire to make an even greater impact grew. A tour of the AtlantiCare HealthPlex highlighted the breadth of services available, from eighteen clinical care specialties to nutrition programs and day programs designed to foster social connection. Conversations with clinicians and leaders deepened their understanding of how AtlantiCare addresses social determinants of health – factors that influence

AtlantiCare’s commitment to the health of our region reaches far beyond the care delivered within the walls of our hospitals and facilities. Across the region, first responders, including law enforcement, public safety, EMS and clinical teams, play a critical role in ensuring the health, safety and well-being of our communities. And in those critical moments, trust and shared understanding between these groups can make all the difference. Recognizing the power of stronger connections, AtlantiCare took action to bridge gaps and bring these groups together. Several years ago, our Public Safety and Clinical Services teams and the Atlantic City Police Department launched the Atlantic County Collaborative Operations and Management Meeting (AC-COMM), a forum designed to bring first responder agencies and healthcare partners to the same table and work through operational challenges together. Bringing Partners Together to Strengthen Regional Safety and Care

Animals can play a powerful role in healing, offering comfort, reassurance and a sense of safety during moments when people feel most vulnerable. This understanding has shaped two programs that integrate animals into care environments to support our patients, families and team members. The Healing Paws Therapy Animal Program is designed to foster comfort and connection. Certified therapy animals visit care settings to calm, reassure and provide moments of companionship for patients and their loved ones. For patients and families navigating stressful or emotional situations, time with a therapy dog can reduce stress and restore a sense of normalcy. These interactions also support our team members by offering an emotional reset, even on the most demanding days.

From left: AtlantiCare AVP Public Safety Daren Dooley, ACPD Chief James Sarkos, ACPD Sgt. Brian Shapiro and

Michael Charlton recognize Sgt. Shapiro for his leadership as Chair of the AC-COMM

What began as a small meeting has since evolved into a multi-county coalition of 25 public safety organizations. Today, AC-COMM represents a multidisciplinary group of clinical leaders and first responders from across our region, united by a shared commitment to improving how care and safety are delivered. AC-COMM convenes monthly to address complex operational challenges at the intersection of healthcare and public safety. Through open dialogue and shared problem-solving, the group helps break down the operational silos that can sometimes delay or complicate response efforts. Just as important, it has created a direct line of communication which allows partners to align on protocols and resolve issues before they surface during emergencies. In December, AtlantiCare hosted a first responders’ luncheon to celebrate the people and partnerships that make this collaboration possible. With more than 100 attendees, the luncheon provided AtlantiCare’s Department of Public Safety an opportunity to thank all the participants and reaffirm our shared responsibility to the communities we serve.

both life expectancy and overall well-being. In 2025, they were generous once again in supporting AtlantiCare’s nutritional programs, including two healthful food pantries and the Mobile Market, as well as community-based screenings that help residents build lasting connections to care.

From left: Olga Vargas, Heather Loveless, Caysey Munn, Ashley Dade with Healing Paws therapy dog

“We believe in giving as well as participating,” said Donna Romeo. “Through financial support and volunteerism, we seek to gain a deeper understanding of the factors at play that we aim to help address.” Carmen and Donna’s dedication serves as an

In addition to Healing Paws, AtlantiCare utilizes specially trained scent detection dogs to support safety across our care settings. Working quietly behind the scenes, these dogs help maintain secure environments. While their role differs from therapy animals, their purpose is the same: to create spaces where care can be delivered without any added stress or disruption. Together, these programs reflect AtlantiCare’s belief that healing is influenced not only by clinical treatment, but by how people feel throughout their experience. Whether through comfort or protection, animals help create environments where healing can truly begin.

inspiration for others who want to help strengthen local communities through health and wellness.