S.H.A.D.E.S of Care™ was created to help address one of the most overlooked gaps in healthcare education: recognizing skin injuries and pressure-related changes across diverse skin tones.

 

Founded by Valerie Crenshaw-Townes, RN, WCC, S.H.A.D.E.S of Care™ was developed from years of hands-on wound care experience, patient advocacy, and a deep commitment to improving equitable healthcare outcomes.

 

Throughout her nursing career, Valerie witnessed how delayed recognition, inconsistent assessment practices, and limited education surrounding skin of color often contributed to disparities in wound care and preventable complications. Those experiences became the foundation for creating a practical, educational framework designed to support earlier recognition, strengthen clinical confidence, and improve patient outcomes.

 

More Than a Guide — A Clinical Education Framework

 

S.H.A.D.E.S of Care™ is more than a pocket guide or reference tool. It is a growing educational ecosystem designed to help healthcare professionals assess, educate, and implement more culturally responsive wound care practices.

 

The framework includes:

• Quick Reference Pocket Guides

• Point-of-Care Care Cards

• Clinical Assessment Tools

• Educational Resources

• Training & Continuing Education Opportunities

• Implementation Support for Healthcare Teams

 

Through a structured three-tier system, S.H.A.D.E.S of Care™ empowers clinicians, caregivers, educators, and organizations with practical tools that support awareness, confidence, consistency, and equitable care delivery.

A Mission Rooted in Equity and Impact

 

At its core, S.H.A.D.E.S of Care™ exists to help close educational gaps in skin assessment and wound care across ALL skin tones.

 

As awareness continues to grow nationally and internationally, the mission remains the same:

To ensure every patient receives earlier recognition, informed assessment, compassionate care, and the opportunity for better outcomes.

 

Because Every Shade Deserves Expert Care.