OCES

BROCKTON AND PLYMOUTH, MA… For the third consecutive year, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, has been recognized as a “2025 Best Places to Work” honoree by Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing.

OCES was recognized as one of 38 honorees for the 2025 Best Places to Work in a well-attended ceremony on September 4, 2025, at Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod in Hyannis, MA. The award was presented to Anna M. Dee, Chief Operating Officer of OCES.

Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing’s 2025 Best Places to Work were voted based on criteria which included company culture, career advancement, staff appreciation, and giving back to the community. OCES’ emphasis on work/life balance, opportunities for advancement, and their Above & Beyond recognition program are among the many aspects that set the organization apart as an employer.

Founded in 1974, OCES has grown to 240 full-time employees and 30 part-time employees, as well as 21 members on their Board of Directors. The nonprofit’s leadership team includes Nicole Long, Chief Executive Officer; Anna Dee, Chief Operating Officer; Alisa DeLage, Chief Programs Officer; Yolanda America, Chief Finance Officer, and Rob Buckel-Gillis, Human Resources Director. 

“OCES is incredibly honored to be named a Best Places to Work honoree for the third consecutive year,” said Anna M. Dee, COO of OCES. “Our staff has a common goal of providing the very best for the community.”

OCES aspires to be a culturally diverse and inclusive agency that removes barriers, creating equity for all by empowering individuals and communities to thrive, age in place, and reach their highest potential.

About 2025 Best Places to Work
For more information about Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing’s annual award event, the 2025 Best Places to Work Sponsored by Brabo, visit https://capeplymouthbusiness.com

About OCES
OCES is recognized as one of the 2023, 2024 and 2025 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth BusinessMarketing. OCES has been certified as a woman non-profit organization (W/NPO) by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). For more than 50 years, OCES has been a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities. 

Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit ocesma.org
 

Old Colony Elder Services Recognized as a “2025 Best Places to Work” HonoreeRead More

STOUGHTON, MA… Nine older adults at Stoughton Adult Day Health recently celebrated completing a six-week basic computer skills course through the “Traveling Computer Lab – Digital Literacy for Older Adults” program. Offered by Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the program aims to bridge the digital divide and equip seniors with essential technology skills for greater confidence and independence.
 
The digital literacy course, tailored specifically for adults aged 60 and older, provides in-person, hands-on instruction with the goal of enhancing independence, social connectivity, and access to vital online resources. Over the span of six weeks, participants attended a total of eight engaging sessions held at their familiar community setting.
 
During the course, the group gained confidence using laptops. Core topics covered the basics of computer use, along with using Microsoft Windows to improve typing skills and learning how to navigate the internet.
 
“The class was really helpful—most older adults were hesitant to use computers before, but they feel more comfortable now,” said Armindo Rocha, Volunteer Programs Manager at OCES.
 
The Traveling Computer Lab is a mobile program that rotates monthly to new sites across the region, bringing digital literacy training directly to older adults in Councils on Aging, senior centers, and housing communities. By providing all necessary equipment, including laptops, Wi-Fi, and printed materials. The program removes common barriers to access and ensures participants receive personalized, step-by-step guidance at their own pace.
 
Through this initiative, OCES is not only teaching older adults how to use technology, but also fostering greater confidence, social connection, and safety in the digital world.
 
For more information about the Traveling Computer Lab or other services offered by OCES, visit ocesma.org or call (508) 584-1561.
 
About OCES
OCES is recognized as one of the 2023 and 2024 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth BusinessMarketing. OCES has been certified as a woman non-profit organization (W/NPO) by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). For more than 50 years, OCES has been a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities. 
 
Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit ocesma.org.

Seniors at Stoughton Adult Day Health Complete Digital Literacy Course with OCES Traveling Computer LabRead More

BROCKTON, PLYMOUTH, AND TAUNTON, MA… 

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, honored Brenda Carrens, Community Programs Director, as she retired after 20 years at OCES.

Carrens has been instrumental in the growth and success of OCES. During her OCES career, Carrens worked with the Greater Plymouth County’s Retired Seniors Volunteer Program (RSVP), Family Caregiver Support, Healthy Living, Money Management, Development, and Volunteer programs. Most recently, Carrens was the Community Programs Director overseeing Nutrition, Volunteer, Healthy Living, and Family Caregiver Support operations as well as the supervisors and managers of those programs.

Dedicated to helping others and giving back, Carrens is a lifelong volunteer for schools and other charities. She is a Metro South Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, and a volunteer for OCES’ Money Management and Meals on Wheels programs. Carrens previously served on the Cancer Care Community Advisory Board (CABbies) a volunteer fundraising group that supported cancer patients.

“Brenda has made a tremendous impact on many individuals and families through her tireless efforts, leadership and dedication to OCES and the community over the past 20 years,” said Nicole Long, CEO of OCES. “Congratulations Brenda! OCES will miss you and we wish you all the best in your retirement!”

Carrens has been a resident of Taunton, MA for 25 years.

About OCES
OCES is recognized as one of the 2023 and 2024 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing. OCES has been certified as a woman non-profit organization (W/NPO) by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). For more than 51 years, OCES has been a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities. 

Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit ocesma.org

OCES Honors Dedicated Community Programs Director as she RetiresRead More

PLYMOUTH, MA… More than 150 participated in the March Against Elder Abuse on Thursday, June 26, 2025, that began at Tavern on the Wharf and proceeded down Main Street in Plymouth, MA.
 
The one-mile march, which is centered around World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), was an effort to raise awareness about the devastating impacts of elder abuse and promote a safer, more supportive environment for older adults in the community. 
 
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) held the event in partnership with the Plymouth Center for Active Living, the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department, and the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office.
 
“The March Against Elder Abuse is an opportunity to increase awareness about abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older adults,” said Teresa Kourtz, LSW, MSG, OCES’ Protective Services Director. “We thank everyone who participated in our Plymouth March and those who have joined the movement to take the lead against elder abuse. We must continue to work together to raise awareness of this critical issue.” 
 
After the march, a luncheon was held at the Tavern on the Wharf that included special guest speakers Plymouth County Sheriff Joseph McDonald, Plymouth County District Attorney Timothy Cruz ,Teresa Kourtz, OCES’ Protective Services Director, Chief of Plymouth Police and trained comfort dogs.
 
The “Pat Foley Advocacy Award,” was given in memory of longtime OCES employee, volunteer, and advocate Pat Foley. This year’s awards were presented to Sergeant Emiliann Melo of the Lakeville Police Department, Steve Valerio of the Middleboro Police Department, Kevin Manuel of the Plymouth Police Department, and Elmer Robinson, OCES Protective Services Worker.
 
March Against Elder Abuse events are part of OCES’ WEAAD campaign. 
 
OCES’ March Against Elder Abuse event in Plymouth was sponsored by Abbott Home Health Care, Inc. For more information about our sponsor, visit https://www.abbottcare.com/ 

Thank you to all our sponsors: Plymouth County District Attorney; Home Health Resources, Inc.; Bluestone Bank; HarborOne Bank; Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department; Rotary Club of Brockton; and Almeida & Carlson Insurance.
 
Join the Movement
Other ways to get involved in the movement against elder abuse include sponsorship of events; sharing educational materials with your networks to raise awareness; and by donating to OCES in support of its Protective Services Department that advocates for and assists older adults. 
 
“One in 10 older adults aged 60+ have experienced some form of abuse according to the National Center on Elder Abuse,” said Kourtz. “Elder abuse is known as a ‘silent problem’. It is estimated that only 1 in 14 cases are reported, which is why raising awareness of elder abuse and its signs are so important.”
 
Recognizing Elder Abuse
Elder abuse includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse; neglect; self-neglect; and financial exploitation. According to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging and Independence, 43,617 elder abuse reports were received during Fiscal Year 2024. 
 
OCES’ Protective Services staff works with older adults, or their designees, to prevent, eliminate, or remedy situations involving elder abuse. When a report is made to the Centralized Intake Unit (Elder Abuse Hotline), and the elderly reside in our service area, OCES will receive the report and determine if further investigation by a Protective Services Worker is necessary.
 
If you have concerns, please contact your local Protective Services Agency. To report elder abuse, contact the Elder Abuse Hotline at 1-800-922-2275.
 
To learn more about WEAAD, visit https://elderjustice.usc.edu/weaad-home/
 
About OCES
OCES is recognized as one of the 2023 and 2024 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing. OCES has been certified as a woman non-profit organization (W/NPO) by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). For more than 51 years, OCES has been a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 23 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities. 
 
Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit ocesma.org

“March Against Elder Abuse” Event Held in Plymouth Raised Awareness of Elder AbuseRead More

BRIDGEWATER, BROCKTON, DUXBURY, EASTON, KINGSTON, MIDDLEBORO, PEMBROKE, PLYMOUTH, MA… 
 
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, honored volunteers at a special luncheon and awards ceremony held at Indian Pond Country Club in Kingston, MA.
 
A total of 130 attendees attended the appreciation luncheon.
 
“It is through the unwavering support of all of our volunteers that many OCES programs and Community Service Partner programs are better able to assist those in need,” said Armindo Rocha, OCES’ Volunteer Programs Manager. “We recognize and thank all of our generous volunteers for their tremendous dedication to helping others and our communities.”
 
Armindo Rocha and Cidalia America, OCES’ Volunteer Coordinator, hosted the appreciation luncheon and presented awards. 
 
OCES presented the Make a Difference Award to 12 outstanding volunteers in recognition of their dedication to helping others and making a meaningful impact in the community: 
 
Tom Adduci, Bridgewater Meals On Wheels (MOW) volunteer; Ellen Lash, Ellen Jacobs and John Durnan volunteers for OCES’ Money Management Program (MMP) in Brockton; Mike Pauley and Sandra Ivers, Brockton MOW volunteers; Beth Kelley and Bob Kelley, Duxbury MOW volunteers; Rita Pope, Easton MOW volunteer; Donna Blaschke, Middleboro MOW volunteer; John Melchin, Pembroke MOW volunteer; and Edward Sore, Plymouth MOW volunteer.
 
OCES had the pleasure of having Mark Grossman give a brief statement on behalf of Abbott Care, the premiere sponsor.
 
Volunteering for OCES
With the help of more than 550 Nutrition Program volunteers, OCES serves 2,600 meals every weekday as part of its MOW services. MMP volunteers, assist older adults and individuals with disabilities with bill paying, reconciling bank statements, balancing checkbooks, and in special cases negotiating debt with creditors. Volunteers also serve on the OCES Board of Directors, participate in the MMP Advisory Board, and contribute to many other important efforts. 
 
OCES’ is proud to have a Volunteer Center in Plymouth which serves as a central resource for volunteers and service partners offering volunteer opportunities in Plymouth County. Prospective volunteers can talk one-on-one with volunteer program staff who can assist them in their search for volunteering opportunities that fit their skills and interests. The Volunteer Center is equipped with computers for researching volunteer opportunities as well as brochures and other literature from organizations seeking volunteers.
 
To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit https://ocesma.org/get-involved/volunteer-opportunities
 
About OCES
OCES is recognized as one of the 2023 and 2024 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing. OCES has been certified as a woman non-profit organization (W/NPO) by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). For more than 50 years, OCES has been a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities. 
 
Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit ocesma.org

Local Volunteers Awarded at Appreciation LuncheonRead More

BROCKTON AND PLYMOUTH, MA… More than 150 participated in the March Against Elder Abuse on Thursday, June 12, 2025 that began at the Brockton Council on Aging (COA), 10 Father Kenney Way, proceeded down Main Street to OCES’ office, then returned to the COA.
  
The one-mile march was an effort to raise awareness about the devastating impacts of elder abuse and promote a safer, more supportive environment for older adults in the community. Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) held the event in partnership with the Brockton COA, the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department, and the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office.
 
“The March Against Elder Abuse, which is centered around World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, is an opportunity to increase awareness about abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older adults,” said Teresa Kourtz, LSW, MSG, OCES’ Protective Services Director. “Thank you to everyone who participated in our Brockton March and to those who have joined the movement to take the lead against elder abuse. We must continue to work together to raise awareness of this critical issue.” 
 
Robin Lipson, Secretary of Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE) offered opening remarks at the event. Jonathan Fielding, Regional Manager of AGE, Mayor Robert Sullivan, City of Brockton; Alfred DeGirolamo, Office of Senator Michael Brady; State Representative Rita Mendes, Plymouth County Sheriff Joseph McDonald, State Representative Michelle Dubois, Brockton Fire Chief Brian Nardelli, Alisa DeLage, OCES Chief Programs Officer, Anna Dee, OCES Chief Operating Officer, and Mark Grossman, AbbottCare Director of Marketing were also in attendance.
 
After the march, a luncheon was held which included special guest speakers Joseph McDonald, Plymouth County Sheriff; Robert Sullivan, Brockton Mayor; Janice Fitzgerald, Brockton COA Director; Robin Lipson, Secretary of AGE, Teresa Kourtz, OCES’ Protective Services Director and Kathy Kats, AbbottCare.
 
The “Pat Foley Advocacy Award” in memory of Pat Foley, a longtime OCES employee, volunteer and advocate, was presented to Firefighter Peter Reardon, of the Brockton Fire Department. 
                                                                              
Kourtz continued, “Elder abuse is known as a ‘silent problem’. It is estimated that only 1 in 14 cases are reported, which is why raising awareness of elder abuse, and its signs are so very important.”
 
Join the Movement
A second March Against Elder Abuse will be held in Plymouth on Thursday, June 26, 2025 from 11am to 2pm beginning at the Tavern on the Wharf, 6 Town Wharf, Plymouth. The one-mile march will be followed by a light lunch. Sign-in begins at 10:30 am. Anyone interested in participating in the March down Main Street (in downtown Plymouth) can register for free by visiting: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/brzkg8s?mode=preview&source_id=11acad85-5e3d-4587-a47b-48e8c4cd883d&source_type=em&c=
  
In addition to participating in March Against Elder Abuse events, you can get involved by sponsoring these initiatives, sharing educational materials within your networks to raise awareness, or making a donation to support OCES’ Protective Services Department in its efforts to advocate for and assist older adults.
 
This year’s March Against Elder Abuse events are proudly sponsored by AbbottCare, Inc.  For more information about the sponsor, please visit https://www.abbottcare.com/. Thank you to all our sponsors; Plymouth County District Attorney, Home Health Resources, Inc., Bluestone Bank, HarborOne Bank, Plymouth County Sheriff, Rotary Club of Brockton, and Almeida & Carlson Insurance. 
 
Recognizing Elder Abuse
According to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging and Independence, 43,617 elder abuse reports were received during Fiscal Year 2024.
 
Elder abuse includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse; neglect; self-neglect; and financial exploitation. 
 
OCES’ Protective Services Program staff works with older adults, or their designees, to prevent, eliminate, or remedy situations involving elder abuse. When a report is made to the Centralized Intake Unit (Elder Abuse Hotline) and the Older Adult resides in our service area, OCES will receive the report and determine if further investigation by a Protective Services Worker is necessary.
 
If you have concerns, please contact your local Protective Services Agency. To report elder abuse, contact the Elder Abuse Hotline at 1-800-922-2275.
 
To learn more about WEAAD, visit https://elderjustice.usc.edu/weaad-home/
 
About OCES
OCES is recognized as one of the 2023 and 2024 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing. OCES has been certified as a woman non-profit organization (W/NPO) by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). For more than 50 years, OCES has been a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities. 
 
Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit ocesma.org.

Raising awareness of elder abuse at “March Against Elder Abuse” event held in Brockton. Second March to be held in Plymouth on June 26. Read More