#United States #Jersey City #End-of-Life Care #INELDA #Doulas

A Decade of Transformative Care

On July 31, 2025, the International End-of-Life Doula Association (INELDA) proudly celebrated its ten-year milestone in enhancing the experience of those navigating end-of-life circumstances. This nonprofit organization has significantly advanced compassion and dignity in care for patients, families, and communities during one of life’s most challenging moments.

Since its inception in 2015, INELDA has trained over 9,000 end-of-life doulas, with members across all U.S. states and territories, as well as 56 countries worldwide. Despite the majority of its members being based in the United States, INELDA has cultivated a global network that includes practitioners from Europe, Central and South America, and Asia. This expansive reach highlights the growing recognition of the role of end-of-life doulas, each providing valuable support tailored to the unique needs of those facing death.

INELDA's impact extends beyond training, with the organization having awarded more than $350,000 in scholarships aimed at increasing accessibility to training and resources in underserved communities. This financial support ensures that individuals from all backgrounds can receive culturally sensitive and equitable care, reflecting the organization’s commitment to humility and inclusivity.

To commemorate this significant anniversary, INELDA honored two outstanding contributors in the field of end-of-life care. The Outstanding Community Partner Award was presented to Empath Health, a leading U.S. healthcare provider. Empath Health has integrated INELDA-trained doulas into their comprehensive care models, demonstrating a dedicated approach to fostering dignity and connection for families in their most vulnerable moments. As one of the largest not-for-profit health systems focused on hospice and palliative care, Empath Health stands as a trailblazer in innovative end-of-life support.

The Pathmaker Award was awarded to Wilka Roig, a transpersonal psychotherapist, artist, and advocate deeply involved in end-of-life training and community outreach. Wilka’s extensive work through Fundación Elisabeth Kübler-Ross México Centro and her roles in various educational initiatives have made her a vital figure in promoting the doula movement, especially in Latin America. Her commitment to enhancing care at the end of life has positively influenced countless individuals through training, clinical practice, and leadership.

Doug Simpson, the Executive Director of INELDA, emphasized how the organization has evolved over the past ten years. He noted, “In the beginning, we were a small, founder-led team attempting to change the narrative around death and dying in our communities. Today, we have transformed our vision into a vibrant global community, reshaping end-of-life care through innovative partnerships.”

As INELDA looks to the future, Simpson acknowledged that the next decade will demand even greater innovation in healthcare practices. The organization is committed to continuing its mission of expanding equitable and compassionate deathcare for all, something that is increasingly vital as society grapples with the complexities of end-of-life planning and support.

About INELDA
Founded in 2015, the International End-of-Life Doula Association (INELDA) is dedicated to supporting individuals in their journey towards death through education, resources, and advocacy. The organization strives to inspire social awareness of deathcare, emphasizing the crucial roles played by end-of-life doulas. With a mission centered on accessibility and compassionate support, INELDA continues to lead the way in transforming how society understands and practices end-of-life care.