Two Larimer County residents were recognized on May 11 at the Older Americans Month award ceremony for their volunteerism, positive attitude, and impact for older adults.

The two awards, Outstanding Senior Volunteer and Outstanding Family Caregiver, were awarded by the Larimer County Office on Aging. The annual awards are a way to show appreciation for older adults and caregivers in our community as part of Older Americans Month, which is celebrated each year in May.

The 2023 Outstanding Senior Volunteer Award was presented to Phyllis McKeown for her volunteer work with SAINT, Senior Alternatives in Transportation. McKeown has been a SAINT volunteer for over 15 years, and has held the record for the most rides per year in 7 of the last 10 years. Her colleagues at SAINT praised McKeown's dedication and reliability. SAINT's Volunteer Coordinator, Theresa Holbrook, who nominated McKeown, said, "she is focused on doing the best she can for the passengers that depend on our SAINT drivers to get them to their appointments, shopping trips and other activities — helping to maintain their independence — and keeping herself active and useful." Sue Lamb, SAINT's Fort Collins Scheduler, added "Phyllis not only drives two days a week, but if we are in a bind for a fill-in driver she is there to help, offering an extra shift — especially if it is last minute! Special hardly covers the feelings we have for Phyllis." 

The 2023 Outstanding Family Caregiver Award was presented to Ginger Haney, who was nominated by Andrea Scandrett, Program Manager with Dementia Together. Scandrett said of Haney, "she is always smiling and joyful. She has lovingly cared for her husband Del since his dementia diagnosis in 2017." Scandrett noted that even though the Haneys are newer to the community, they were quick to become an important part of Dementia Together's supportive network. "Both Ginger and Del bring a sense of fun and happiness to everything they do," added Scandrett. "Del and Ginger are a joyful, loving couple and Del is receiving excellent care from his wife." 

Congratulations to the 2023 Older Americans Month Award winners and thank you for your contributions to making Larimer County an exceptional place for older adults.