The Larimer County Office on Aging honored three exceptional Larimer County residents for their volunteerism, positive attitude, and impact at the Office on Aging Resource Fair on May 13. 

The Older Americans Month Awards, given annually for Outstanding Senior Volunteer and Outstanding Family Caregiver, were presented by Office on Aging Advisory Council Chair Colleen Meyer and Commissioners Kefalas and Stephens during a ceremony at the event. These awards are given annually as a way to show appreciation for older adults and caregivers in our community.

The 2025 Outstanding Senior Volunteer Award was presented to two winners this year: LoAnne Forschmiedt and Ruth Fletcher-Carter.

LoAnne Forschmiedt was nominated for the Outstanding Senior Volunteer award by Long Term Care Ombudsman Eliza Hensley. "LoAnne was nominated for her seven years as a dedicated and compassionate Ombudsman in Estes Park long-term care communities," said Eliza. "She has investigated over 100 resident complaints, addressing issues from minor concerns to allegations of abuse with a bright attitude, dignity, and empathy. Her monthly (or more frequent) visits save full-time staff valuable time, especially during difficult winter access. LoAnne is a certified Ombudsman who actively participates in continuing education to enhance her advocacy for residents. Her positive and flexible approach makes her a valued volunteer."

Ruth Fletcher-Carter also won Outstanding Senior Volunteer but was unable to attend the ceremony. Steve Conway, who nominated Ruth, accepted the award on her behalf. As Steve detailed in his nomination, "Ruth founded RAFT over 11 years ago, which now provides 4,000+ annual trips for seniors and disabled adults in the Berthoud fire district. Though retired from RAFT, she advises on county transportation, recently lobbying Berthoud Trustees. Ruth still drives for RAFT, volunteers at her church as a Deacon and caregiver, assists with food drives for House of Neighborly Services, and is active in PEO (Philanthropic Education Organization) and 100 Women Who Care. Her exceptional kindness and compassion have only grown in retirement, making her an outstanding senior volunteer for Berthoud and Larimer County citizens."

The 2025 Outstanding Family Caregiver Award was presented to Winnie Hanson, who was nominated by Office on Aging Case Manager Dani Martin. "Winnie cares for her 84-year-old husband, Ed, at their log home in Crystal Lakes," said Dani. "Winnie has been Ed's caregiver for the last 9 years after Ed experienced a stroke, sepsis, a neck break, and had to have one of his arms amputated. Despite doctors' poor prognosis, Winnie was able to bring Ed home, and she learned to manage his feeding tube and catheter herself. Winnie is positive about her experiences as Ed's caregiver. Though she no longer paints, Winnie finds joy in photographing nature and wildlife around their Red Feather property and sharing the photos with loved ones."

Congratulations to the 2025 Older Americans Month Award winners and thank you for your contributions to making Larimer County an exceptional place for older adults!