New board members elected, community supporters honored at Senior Resources’ Annual Award Celebration

Senior Resources, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting independent living for seniors in Columbia, celebrated the achievements of the past year, introduced new board members, and honored outstanding community partners at its Annual Award Celebration held on December 1, 2023.

Senior Resources is pleased to welcome three distinguished individuals to its Board of Directors:

Clay Mitchell– Gallivan White and Boyd
Stephanie Pfeiffer– BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina
Melissa Taylor– Lexington Medical Center.

Current board President Chris Zecopoulos, concluding his term, will continue to serve on the
board as immediate past President.

The Board of Directors elected the following officers to serve for 2024:

Catherine Perry– President
Jeff Manning– Vice President
Scott Ravan– Treasurer

Senior Resources also recognizes four outgoing Board Members who have dedicated years of service to the seniors in our community:

Bryant Davis
Susan Forrest
Jack Heinsohn
Connelly-Anne Ragley

Seven annual awards were given to individuals and agencies within the community who showed extraordinary support for Senior Resources in FY2023.

The Community Partner Award, given to a corporation, church, or organization that has provided major support to Senior Resources through financial donation, sponsorship, or assistance with a significant project or needed service, was granted to Living Springs Lutheran Church. Taking route 221 every Monday and Tuesday, they go beyond the call of duty, delivering Meals on Wheels and instilling a profound sense of community care. During the summer, their influence reaches across the state as they unite youth along the route, not only sharing the immediate impact of Meals on Wheels but also emphasizing how it serves as a platform for post-graduate volunteering opportunities, inspiring the next generation to contribute to communities far and wide. This holiday season, they are spreading joy by participating in our Shoeboxes for Seniors program, and providing gifts to 100+ of our Meals on Wheels clients.

The Corporate Support Award, given for significant support of Senior Resources through financial donations or in-kind support, was given Bank of America. Bank of America has been a consistent and dedicated supporter, providing both financial aid and volunteers. Their commitment runs deep, involving not just the leadership team but also encouraging families to participate in giving back. Their enduring contribution is reflected in over a decade of service on our board of directors, demonstrating a lasting commitment to community involvement.

The Senior Impact Award recognizes an individual or group who has gone above and beyond in their fundraising efforts for Senior Resources’ programs, including using their resources to help raise awareness which has aided in the agency’s fundraising efforts. The award was presented to Junior League of Columbia. Their caring spirit shone through as they dedicated their time to assemble birthday bags for nearly 800 Meals on Wheels clients. This thoughtful gesture undoubtedly added an extra touch of joy and warmth to the lives of those we serve on their birthdays.

The Season of Service Award is given to a volunteer who has served Senior Resources over time with dedication, enthusiasm, passion, and distinction. This year’s award was given to Judy Scott. Judy’s commitment to Senior Resources is truly outstanding. When volunteering for Meals on Wheels takes two routes simultaneously, literally going the extra mile to serve our community. Beyond a simple knock on a door, Judy takes the time to personally get to know our Meals on Wheels clients, adding a heartfelt touch to her service and offering a helping hand when needed.

The Spirit of Giving Award is given to a person who embodies the true definition of giving. This year’s award was given to Susan Forrest. Susan’s contributions have been invaluable; serving on the board for six years, she’s been a steadfast presence at every event. Her dedication extends beyond that – she has been such an advocate for us at BlueCross BlueShield, both before and after her retirement, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to our cause.

The Senior Advocate Award honors a distinguished community leader who advances the well-being of seniors. This year’s award was given Councilman Howard Duvall. Howard is a true friend of Senior Resources. His commitment extends beyond being a dedicated Meals on Wheels volunteer and a member of the Lourie Center. With many years of public service, including his tenure on the Columbia City Council, Howard has been a tireless advocate for our community. As he steps down from the City Council at the end of the year, we’d like to express our deepest gratitude for his enduring service and unwavering support. Howard’s contributions have left an indelible mark on our community, especially in the realm of enhancing the well-being of seniors.

The Leadership Award recognizes outstanding leadership provided by an individual in support of our mission. This year’s award is given to Connelly-Anne Ragley. With an impressive seven-year tenure on the board, including six years in executive leadership, she spent two years as vice chair and an additional two years as chair—navigating the challenges of leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Going above and beyond, Connelly-Anne is a tireless advocate for Senior Resources, both in the local community and at the statehouse. Her commitment to service extends to her family as well, as she volunteers alongside her children, passing on the vital importance of giving back to the next generation.

In closing, Senior Resources extends its gratitude to all awardees and looks forward to continued collaboration and service to the community.

 

About Senior Resources 

Senior Resources is a non-profit organization that coordinates services, provides resources and encourages the personal choices that allow Columbia’s senior citizens to remain independent.  All activities, services and programs of the agency are geared toward promoting independent living, with the goal of helping seniors remain in their homes as long as possible through the support of staff and volunteers, and delaying or preventing institutionalization.

Since 1967, Senior Resources has served Columbia’s frail and elderly residents in three areas:

1) In-home services, including Meals on Wheels, home care, respite care, senior companion services, and case management;
2) Community-based services, including congregate meals, wellness centers, transportation, and physical fitness;
3) Volunteer services, including the Senior Companion and Foster Grandparent programs. With local, state and federal government funding, as well as contributions from United Way, personal donations and fundraising activities, Senior Resources offers a variety of programs so that our clients can select the assistance they need to maintain a healthy and independent lifestyle. With the support of our staff and volunteers, our services touch the lives of more than 4,000 Midlands residents