About Us

Our Mission

Cathy and Carolyn Cristofalo, two sisters in a family of six girls, had a strong foundation in their upbringing, with a focus on industry, curiosity, and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by aging adults. Their father, a leader in aging research, was a strong influence in their decisions to pursue careers in aging. His influence, along with their firsthand experiences with caring for their grandparents played a crucial role in shaping their perspectives on issues facing aging adults.

For Jane Reitmeyer, her north star began with her mother who served as the executive director of RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program), which recruits and places retirees in volunteer positions. In Jane’s family, there was tremendous value placed on remaining purposeful as we age, strength-based aging at its best. Further shaping Jane’s commitment to aging issues was her family’s care of their grandmother who moved in when her needs became too difficult to manage alone.

The idea of forming Mission Transitions reflects their shared interests in serving and advocating for those who are facing life transitions. Their combined knowledge, experiences, and dedication to the well-being of older adults are critical to the success of their mission. They are committed to making a positive impact on people’s lives when they are at their most vulnerable.

Cathy, Carolyn, and Jane all grew up in large families and learned firsthand how to navigate the complexities of family dynamics, including the need for clear communication and flexibility. They have all served as officers on the board of directors of CARIE (Center for Advocacy for the Rights and Interest of Elders). In their time working together to support CARIE, they recognized their shared mission and values for serving others and enhancing the well-being of aging adults including ensuring independence as well as a sense of purpose and industry.

About Our Leadership

Carolyn Cristofalo

MSW, LCSW

Carolyn is a licensed clinical social worker with 28 years of experience working with adults and families in healthcare settings and in the community. She received her master’s degree in social work from the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice. Carolyn practiced social work at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) for 21 years and gained extensive experience in the areas of internal medicine, rehabilitation, oncology and bone marrow transplant. She also spent many years serving as Penn’s first Independent Living Donor Advocate for the Kidney and Liver Transplant Departments. Carolyn currently serves as a Field Placement Coordinator and Field Liaison for the Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research.

She has served the community as a volunteer in different roles for various organizations, including chairing the Board of Directors for CARIE (Center for Advocacy for the Rights and Interests of the Elderly) for many years. Carolyn’s practice interests include chronic illness, aging and related issues, loss and bereavement, social work education, and advocacy at the individual and community levels.

Catherine Cristofalo

MSN, MBA, ACNP-BC

A nurse by background, Cathy has served in clinical roles both as nurse and nurse practitioner for nearly three decades with various leadership and executive roles within healthcare organizations. Throughout her career, regardless of role, her consistent mission has been to deliver on the core values of service and advocacy. Balancing strategic, operational, and clinical responsibilities has brought her a unique perspective, a wealth of experience and the acquisition of various skills to optimally address the challenges faced by individuals and families.

Cathy received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Villanova University, Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania, and a Master of Business Administration (Executive) from Drexel University. She has served as clinical faculty at the University of Pennsylvania in the School of Nursing.

Cathy is currently serving on board of directors, at CARIE (The Center for Advocacy and Rights and Interests of Elders) and has served on the National Advisory Board for Women in Healthcare and the American Heart Association Go Red for Women Board.

Jane Bonner Reitmeyer

MSW, LSW

Jane Bonner Reitmeyer is a licensed social worker who has dedicated her professional career to serving the aging population. With over 25 years of experience in the field of aging,
Jane’s commitment to older adults began during her tenure as a staff assistant with the late Senator John Heinz. Jane had the opportunity to witness firsthand the legislative efforts and policy discussions surrounding aging issues, and the profound impact that advocacy, support systems, and public service have on the lives of aging adults and their families.

Jane received her Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice. Jane’s expertise in aging and all aspects of eldercare continued to be enhanced in her roles as a social worker at the Division of Geriatrics at Penn Medicine, as a professional geriatric care manager at the Penn Memory Center, and as a key contributor to several new business initiatives to serve older adults.

Jane's unwavering dedication to service is underscored by many volunteer roles in the community, especially her involvement with CARIE (Center for Advocacy for the Rights and Interests of the Elders) as a member of the Board of Directors as well as an officer.

Your Journey, Our Expertise