Who is typically responsible for managing the training, certification, and oversight of local SHINE counselors?

Organizations running local SHINE initiatives, such as Area Agencies on Aging or other local centers

While the guidance counselors operate under federal Medicare guidelines, the administrative burden of preparing and monitoring these advisors rests at the local implementation level. The responsibility for managing the rigorous training curriculum, administering certification tests, and maintaining oversight of the counselors falls to the organizations that directly manage the local SHINE initiatives. Examples of these managing entities include local Area Agencies on Aging or other recognized community centers that partner in delivering the service. This local management structure ensures the training is relevant to the local context and that the counselors adhere to established state or local protocols.