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Old Colony Elder Services

Old Colony Elder Services Honors Volunteers at Appreciation Luncheon & Announces Merger

L to R - Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES and Joan Thompson-Stein, volunteer.
L to R – Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES and Joan Thompson-Stein, volunteer.

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout greater Brockton and Plymouth County, recently held a luncheon at the Massasoit Conference Center in Brockton to thank the volunteers who donate their time to help others.

During the luncheon, Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES, announced the merger between Mayflower RSVP (MRSVP) and OCES that became effective April 1, 2015. Between OCES and MRSVP there are more than 600 volunteers giving countless hours of service to the older adults, individuals with disabilities and caregivers in the community.

DiGiorgi thanked all volunteers including the OCES Board of Directors and the MRSVP Advisory Council.

Darcy Lee, OCES’ MRSVP Project Director, provided an overview of the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. Lee explained how Senior Corps volunteers are part of a national movement of volunteerism through the Corporation for National and Community Service. Lee also explained the health benefits of volunteering with evidence from various reports.

Brenda Carrens, Volunteer Coordinator, explained how to become an MRSVP volunteer, the benefits of free insurance, and the convenience of learning about other volunteer opportunities through MRSVP newsletters, website and emails. Carrens thanked the Money Management Program volunteers and the Nutrition volunteers.

After lunch was served, the volunteers enjoyed music and activities provided by Rob Peters Entertainment.

About Mayflower RSVP – MRSVP’s mission is to provide meaningful opportunities to volunteers aged 55 and older that provide personal fulfillment by utilizing their life skills and experiences to contribute to various organizations, and improve the quality of life for Plymouth County citizens. MRSVP is a designated national Certifying Organization for the President’s Volunteer Service Award Program, which is the premier volunteer awards program in this country. MRSVP is one of 750 volunteer programs in a national network with funding from the Corporation for National & Community Service, enabling older Americans to make a difference in their local communities. Its service area covers all of the communities in Plymouth County. For more information, call 508-746-7787 or visit www.mayflowerrsvp.org.

About OCES – Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 215 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508 584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

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Old Colony Elder Services Announces Merger with Mayflower RSVP

Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES
Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout greater Brockton and Plymouth County, has acquired the Mayflower Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP).  As of April 1, 2015, the Mayflower RSVP is integrated with OCES’ Community Programs.

Mayflower RSVP was founded 41 years ago with the mission of helping adults age 55 and older remain active and healthy by providing them with volunteer opportunities in their communities. The organization has operated with grants from the U.S. federal agency Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) and has several hundred volunteers working with service partner organizations. Recently OCES was awarded a three-year grant from CNCS to operate the RSVP of Plymouth County concentrating on focus areas including Economic Opportunity, Education, Veteran and Military Families, and Healthy Futures.

OCES has run its own volunteer programs for many years and has also been a service partner of Mayflower RSVP for the last few years with volunteers in OCES’ Nutrition Program and Money Management Program. The two organizations that share similar missions and philosophies, have been working to transition staff and systems for the last six months.

“Our goals are to further develop the RSVP within the OCES framework, expand opportunities for volunteers of all ages, and deepen relationships with service partners throughout the area,” explained Darcy H. Lee, Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of Mayflower RSVP (whose title will become OCES’ Volunteer Program Manager and Mayflower RSVP Project Director).

“Volunteers are essential to our organization.  We embrace this exciting development and look forward to working with businesses and citizens throughout the greater Plymouth County area to expand opportunities and promote volunteerism,” said Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES.

About Mayflower RSVP – Mayflower RSVP’s mission is to provide meaningful opportunities to volunteers aged 55 and older that provide personal fulfillment by utilizing their life skills and experiences to contribute to various organizations, and improve the quality of life for Plymouth County citizens. Mayflower RSVP is a designated national Certifying Organization for the President’s Volunteer Service Award Program, which is the premier volunteer awards program in this country. Mayflower RSVP is one of 750 volunteer programs in a national network with funding from the Corporation for National & Community Service, enabling older Americans to make a difference in their local communities. Its service area covers all of the communities in Plymouth County. For more information, call 508-746-7787 or visit www.mayflowerrsvp.org.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 215 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508 584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

About CNCS http://www.nationalservice.gov/about

 

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Old Colony Elder Services Sponsors “Senior Day” at Brockton Rox

Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES
Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES

Wednesday, June 17, 2015 is “Senior Day” at the Brockton Rox!

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout the greater Brockton and Plymouth county area, is the exclusive sponsor of “Senior Day”, offering discounted tickets to the Brockton Rox baseball game against the Torrington Titans on June 17th.

The teams are set to play at Campanelli Stadium at 1 Feinberg Way, Brockton. Gates open at 9 a.m. and the first pitch will be thrown at 10 a.m.  From 9 to 10 a.m. and between innings, fans can participate in fun activities such as Baseball Bingo, “Laughter Yoga” by Let’s Laugh Today, T-shirt giveaways and playing catch on the field. The “Swinging Singers” will perform the National Anthem.

Seniors (age 60 and older) throughout the region may purchase $3 tickets (discounted from the regular $6 due to OCES’ sponsorship) and enjoy special activities. The first 50 people to purchase tickets at the Brockton Council on Aging and the first 30 people to buy tickets at the stadium on the day of the event will get a free lunch courtesy of OCES.

For more information and to purchase tickets in advance, contact Janice Fitzgerald at the Brockton Council on Aging office located at 10 Father Kenney Way, Brockton, MA 02301 or call (508) 580-7811. For directions to Campanelli Stadium, visit www.brocktonrox.com.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 215 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508 584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

 

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OCES, Brockton COA and HarborOne Bank to “March Against Elder Abuse” on Monday, June 15th

OCES logoOld Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults and individuals with disabilities, has joined forces with Brockton Council on Aging (COA) and HarborOne Bank to “March Against Elder Abuse” on Monday, June 15, 2015 at 12 p.m. starting at the Brockton COA, 10 Father Kenney Way. The event will be held rain or shine.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is June 15, 2015; in an effort to raise awareness of elder abuse, OCES, Brockton COA and HarborOne Bank have organized the march down Main Street. Community members are invited to join the “March Against Elder Abuse” starting at the Brockton COA and walking down Main Street to OCES at 144 Main Street, then returning to the COA. Participants will receive a free T-shirt (while supplies last).

Following the walk, a complimentary lunch and a special presentation will be held at the Brockton COA. Guest speakers include Janice Fitzgerald, Director of Brockton COA; Teresa Kourtz, OCES’ Protective Services and Money Management Director; and Pat Foley, OCES’ Protective Services Intake & Outreach Worker. The OCES Protective Services department, as well as those who have assisted elders in the community, will be recognized during the event.

Raising Awareness

Elder abuse includes financial exploitation, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse or neglect. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, family members (spouses, adult children, partners and others) comprise the majority of abusers. Additionally, research indicates that individuals with dementia are at even greater risk for elder abuse.

“World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an opportunity to share information and spread awareness about abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older adults. We can make a difference and encourage the community to join our ‘March Against Elder Abuse’ on Monday June 15th,” noted Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director at OCES.

OCES encourages supporters to wear purple on June 15th to show awareness.

There is no cost to attend the lunch, but reservations are required. RSVP by June 8, 2015 to Lisa Mullin by calling 508-584-1561 extension 220 or email lmullin@ocesma.org, or call the Brockton COA at 508-580-7811.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 215 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508 584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

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Wareham March for Meals a Success

Howard Goodwin with Judy Whiteside, Wareham Selectwoman
Howard Goodwin with Judy Whiteside, Wareham Selectwoman

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency that serves older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout the greater Brockton and Plymouth county area, recently organized a “March for Meals” in Wareham.

March for Meals is part of Meals On Wheels Association of America’s (MOWAA) national campaign. On March 26, 2015, elected officials from Wareham and OCES staff delivered meals to 10 recipients in the community.

Alan Slavin, Chairman of the Board of Selectmen, and Judy Whiteside, Selectwoman, also helped pack meals at the congregate site before delivering meals. They were accompanied by Christine McLaren, OCES Community Programs Manager, Maribeth Waldron, OCES Nutrition Program Supervisor and Cheryl Johannessen, OCES Meal Site Manager in Wareham, as they delivered meals to local seniors.

“It’s an honor to have local officials participate in our March for Meals event. Many older adults are homebound, unable to prepare meals, manage their grocery shopping or attend one of our congregate meal sites.  The Meals On Wheels program is essential for those who would otherwise not get a nutritious daily meal. Furthermore, the daily social contact is a crucial safety check of older adults living alone,” explained Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES.

The Meals On Wheels program serves individuals age 60 and over who are unable to prepare their own meals. Both the home delivered Meals On Wheels program and the congregate meal sites rely on the assistance of OCES’ volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering for the meals program, or want more information about other volunteer opportunities, contact OCES’ Volunteer Coordinator at 508-584-1561.

Lunch reservations for older adults and individuals with disabilities at the Wareham congregate meal site may be made by calling Cheryl Johannessen at 508-291-3100, extension 6514. Older adults who are interested in receiving meals delivered to their homes can call OCES at 508-584-1561 and request an assessment.

About Meals On Wheels Association of America
MOWAA is the only national association and network dedicated solely to ending senior hunger in America. For more information, visit their website at www.mowaa.org.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 210 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

 

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Old Colony Elder Services Appoints Alisa DeLage, LCSW, MSW As Home Care Program Manager

OCES logoOld Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency that serves older adults and individuals with disabilities, has appointed Alisa DeLage, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, as Home Care Program Manager.

In her new role, Ms. DeLage oversees the Home Care Program’s supervisors, care managers and operations. The Home Care Program enables older adults and individuals with disabilities to remain in their own homes by providing them with services needed to maintain their independence, from basic home care personal assistance to a variety of other long term supports.

For four years prior to joining OCES, Ms. DeLage worked for an adoption and foster care agency in Taunton, MA. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Bridgewater State University and a Master of Social Work from Wheelock College in Boston. She is working towards a second Master’s degree in Nonprofit Leadership. Ms. DeLage is a member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and resides in Quincy, MA.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 210 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

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“Caring for Veterans Experiencing the Impact of Serious Illness” Presentation on May 11th

Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director
Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency that serves older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout the greater Brockton and Plymouth county area, is collaborating with HopeHealth, the Plymouth Veterans Services, and the Plymouth Senior Center on a presentation for veterans diagnosed with a serious illness on Monday, May 11, 2015, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Plymouth Senior Center, 44 Nook Road.

HopeHealth will present “Caring for Veterans Experiencing the Impact of Serious Illness”. Veterans and their loved ones will learn about the wide range of services available to provide the best possible quality of life. HopeHealth presenters, Ann Geagan, MSW, LICSW, Director of Bereavement; Ellen McCabe, RN, CHPN, Director of Professional Education; Steve Morrissey, Veteran Volunteer; and Melissa Weidman, Director of Community Relations and Outreach will discuss how an eligible veteran’s unique needs are heard, understood and honored in this special care model.

This presentation is based on the principles of the We Honor Veterans (WHV) program, a partnership between the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and Veterans Administration.

A continental breakfast will be served. All are welcome and there is no charge to attend but space is limited so please register online at HopeHealthCo.org/CaringforVets, or email Info@HopeHealthCo.org or call (774) 487-3667.

About HopeHealth

HopeHealth provides services that enhance the comfort and quality of life for people experiencing the impact of serious illness and loss. To learn more about HopeHealth, visit hopehealthco.org.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 210 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

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Old Colony Elder Services Appoints LeNay Harper as Community Programs Manager

OCES logo

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency that serves older adults and individuals with disabilities, has appointed LeNay Harper as Community Programs Manager.

Ms. Harper has more than two decades of experience in the non-profit, public and private sectors. In her new role at OCES, she is responsible for the development, supervision, and oversight of all the company’s housing programs. For four years previous to OCES, Ms. Harper was a human and social services consultant in private practice facilitating groups in Boston and Cambridge. For 15 years prior to that, she worked for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts with a number of different populations including those impacted by homelessness, domestic violence, substance abuse, and the criminal justice system, plus teenage and low-income families.

Ms. Harper holds a Bachelor of Science in Operations Management from Boston College and a Master of Science in Planning and Development from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. She resides in Brockton, MA.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 201 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

 

 

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Old Colony Elder Services Announces Lunch & Learn Session on April 15th at Marshfield COA

OCES logoOld Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency that serves older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout the greater Brockton and Plymouth county area, will offer a nutrition workshop on April 15, 2015 entitled “Carbohydrates in Your Meals” at the Marshfield Council on Aging (COA) located at 230 Webster Street.

Barbara Nalen-Cardoza RDN, LDN will help consumers understand carbohydrates in their meals. Ms. Nalen-Cardoza is a registered dietician at OCES and holds a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition. She will discuss the “carb content” of bread, milk and other foods, using the congregate meal as an example. Attendees will learn which foods to limit to control carbohydrate intake for weight loss, pre-diabetes monitoring and better nutrition overall.

This educational nutrition workshop will be held during the congregate meal at 12 p.m.  Reservations for the meal are required by April 13th. Call 781-834-5581 to reserve a seat.

For more information about upcoming programs, contact OCES at (508) 584-1561.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 210 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

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