AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national
service and volunteering, is proud to announce the recipients of
the first ever AmeriCorps Seniors Convening Awards. This
prestigious accolade recognizes program directors who have made
significant contributions to their communities by leveraging
volunteer service to address local challenges that align with
national priorities. Its annual service awards recognize
outstanding contributions to community service and volunteerism
across the nation.
"AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers change lives,” said
Michael D. Smith, CEO, AmeriCorps. “Through
AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparents, Senior Companions and RSVP,
these awardees exemplify how this coming together enriches our
communities, strengthens social ties, and builds a sense of respect
and understanding among us.”
"In a testament to the power of dedication and service, these
AmeriCorps Seniors awardees truly set the bar higher for us
all," said Carly Bruder, the Acting Chief Program
Officer of AmeriCorps. "AmeriCorps Seniors, with
their experience and sage wisdom, continue to stand at the
forefront of service and volunteerism, creating change across the
nation's communities."
Impactful Service Award honors program
directors who have significantly impacted their communities through
volunteer service addressing local challenges that are also
national priorities.
Recipients: Shelida Purnell, Foster
Grandparent Program, Community Action of Greater Indianapolis,
and Jeannie Leal, City of Corpus Christi
Senior Companion Program
Shelida Purnell, an innovator committed to
enhancing social and physical health, secured a $100,000 grant from
Congressman Andre Carson. Utilizing these funds, she organized
successful community initiatives, including two 3Ks, a 5K, and a
Senior Health Fair. These events, which featured coaching on safe
workouts and healthy eating, significantly benefited participants'
health, leading to weight loss and reduced dependence on
medication. The programs attracted over 200 attendees and 40
health-related vendors, promoting community engagement and the
formation of accountability groups for sustained healthy
living.
Jeannie Leal is known for her dedication
to the Corpus Christi community, Jeannie utilized volunteerism to
ensure inclusive access to books and nature. She initiated a book
club for visually impaired individuals and launched the City of
Corpus Christi Parks and Recreation Passport program, promoting
outdoor activities and civic engagement. Her efforts have
significantly improved community engagement and the quality of life
for older adults. This initiative not only promoted the joy of
reading but also fostered social connections.
Inclusive Service Award recognizes
individuals who improve equity and accessibility in older adult
volunteerism.
Recipient: Tina Brown, Dignity Health
Connected Living, Oaks Drive, Redding, CA
Amid the pandemic, Tina Brown bridged
the digital divide by teaching Foster Grandparent and Senior
Companion volunteers how to use laptops and Zoom. She also held
in-service trainings and recognition events, ensuring volunteers
stayed connected and appreciated. Tina is honored with the
Inclusive Service Award for her intentional efforts to improve
equity and accessibility in older adult volunteerism. She also
ensured inclusion through monthly in-service trainings and
drive-thru recognition events, maintaining social connections and
appreciation for volunteers.
Influential Service Award recognizes
directors who exemplify strong leadership and civic engagement.
Recipient: Stacy Venteicher, Carroll
County RSVP, Glidden, Iowa
Stacy Venteicher’s visionary leadership
expanded her program's reach and impact, developing a comprehensive
volunteer training initiative that empowered older adults to serve
effectively and take on leadership roles. Her commitment to civic
engagement and challenging stereotypes about aging has made older
adults valuable, active community members. Under her guidance, her
program has expanded its reach, enhancing volunteer training
initiatives and challenging stereotypes about aging. Stacy's
advocacy for older adults and collaboration with other directors
has significantly impacted her community and beyond.
Innovative Service Award recognizes
program directors who creatively address community needs through
new service activities.
Recipient: Michelle Moll, Exec. Dir., King
of Prussia, PA
Michelle Moll receives the Innovative
Service Award for her creative approaches to addressing community
needs through volunteer programs. Over the past 15 years, Michelle
has revitalized critical programs, including the "Digital Literacy"
initiative, which has expanded to serve multiple generations
struggling with technology. Her innovative leadership has earned
her recognition for bridging the digital divide and enhancing
community wellness. Michelle has expanded critical community
programs across four counties. Her Digital Literacy program,
initially aimed at combating isolation during the pandemic, now
serves multiple generations, helping over 450 community members
understand technology. Michelle's innovation bridges the digital
divide and creates impactful service opportunities.
Life of Service Award honors individuals
with over 20 years of service in promoting older adult
volunteerism.
Recipient: Betty Ruth (40+ years),
Exec. Dir., RSVP, Athens, AL
Betty Ruth has over 40 years dedicated to
serving older adults, Betty has been a strong advocate in Congress
and her home state's legislature. Betty's extensive contributions
include serving on the Alabama Department of Senior Services Board
of Directors and as a delegate to the White House Conference on
Aging. She has led efforts to ensure meaningful volunteer
opportunities for older adults and cultivated ethical leaders in
the community. Embodying a life of service, her leadership and
advocacy have cultivated a community of ethical leaders committed
to meaningful volunteer opportunities for older adults.
Legacy of Leadership Award recognizes a
dedicated champion of AmeriCorps Seniors programs and older adult
volunteers.
Recipient: Edwin L. Walker, Former (March)
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging, Administration on Aging
For the first time, AmeriCorps Seniors presents the Legacy of
Leadership Award to Edwin L. Walker for his
tireless dedication to aging policy, program development, and
advocacy. Edwin's career has been marked by his commitment to
supporting older adults and engaging them as providers of services.
His leadership has shaped national and international aging
networks, leaving a profound legacy. Edwin's career has been
dedicated to preserving the dignity of older adults, their
families, and caregivers. His leadership in policy, program
development, and research has significantly supported older adults
nationwide. Edwin's unwavering commitment to outstanding leadership
has left a legacy impact.
“The impact that AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers have on
communities is incredible and the project directors that lead these
programs create the foundation for that impact,”
said Atalaya Sergi, the Director of AmeriCorps
Seniors. “They not only show a deep dedication to
their communities, but to the volunteers they support, and we are
grateful for all they do day in and day out to get things done for
America. We also could not do the work of AmeriCorps Seniors
without our partners and this year we wanted to recognize Edwin
Walker, who has been a longtime and steadfast supporter of
AmeriCorps Seniors.”
For more information on AmeriCorps Seniors and its programs,
visit AmeriCorps.gov/Seniors.
National Service Press Office
AmeriCorps
(202) 766-2848
pressoffice@cns.gov