NEKCOA Honors 2023 Humanitarian Heroes

Every year, during their Annual Meeting in November, the NEK Council on Aging (NEKCOA) recognizes a special volunteer(s) or organization with the Humanitarian Hero award in honor of their dedication to the Council's mission and the impact they have on the community at large. This year, the Council is pleased to announce that the NEKCOA Senior Companions are the 2023 Humanitarian Heroes.

Senior Companions are volunteers aged 55 and over who provide assistance and friendship to elders who have difficulty with daily living tasks, such as shopping, organizing paperwork or getting to medical appointments. The program aims to help elders live independently and to assist family caregivers. There are six Senior Companions at the Council: Susan Brill of St. Johnsbury, Christine Elder of St. Johnsbury, Natalie Fuller of North Concord, Waid Hudson of Island Pond, Jeannine Richards of Derby Line, and Joan Wollrath of St. Johnsbury.
 

“The Senior Companions are a treasured resource who provides peer-to-peer care and compassion to fellow residents so they can remain vital members of their communities,” said Meg Burmeister, Executive Director. “We are pleased to honor them as our Humanitarian Heroes.”

Jeannine Richards has been a Senior Companion in the Derby Line area for ten years and is currently assisting five people with weekly tasks such as grocery shopping, transportation, and medical appointments.

“I enjoy the Senior Companion Program because I meet so many interesting people,” said Jeannine.

Joan Wollrath from St. Johnsbury has been a Senior Companion since 2019 and currently assists three clients.

“As a Senior Companion, I can devote many hours to my clients and other folks with careful planning. It’s a great program which really enhances the lives of many seniors as well as giving Senior Companions meaningful purpose in their lives,” said Joan.

“Our Senior Companions are hardworking and compassionate individuals that want to better the lives of others. Their willingness to step up and help is deeply appreciated and should not go unrecognized. They are making a difference in combating social isolation for older adults in Vermont. They have changed the lives of many and for that, we are grateful,” said Felicity Norko, NEKCOA Senior Companion Program Coordinator.
 

The 2023 Annual Meeting for the NEK Council on Aging will take place on Thursday, November 16th from 9 – 11 a.m. at the St. Johnsbury Meal Site and Meals on Wheels (St. Johnsbury House). To read the 2023 NEKCOA Annual Report, CLICK HERE.