MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
nce upon a time, Marilyn Pace Maxwell had a vision. The year was 1974, and she had been hired as the gerontology planner for Planning District 1. Beginning with a home delivered meals program, she began to execute her vision of what would become Mountain Empire Older Citizens. Since then it has grown from its humble beginnings as an area agency on aging with three employees to an agency with over 260 employees offering 29 different services. In addition to bedrock Older Americans Act services and innovative services for older persons spearheaded by the local community, MEOC now has services for first time parents and young children, public transit for all ages, medication assistance and support for cancer patients. MEOC is also home to one of the first rural PACE Centers in the nation.
Scan the code below with your smartphone to read a digital copy of our special publication highlighting MEOC's first 5O years.
I am very honored to have worked with Marilyn for many years. All of us who call MEOC home are grateful to her for the opportunity to work in the helping organization she built from the ground up. We also appreciate your support. It’s like the old saying goes, “It takes a village.” MEOC has always relied on the good will and support of the entire community to help us provide assistance to our friends and neighbors who need help to remain at home safely, which is our core mission.
Please join me in celebrating our 50th anniversary as we honor our founder, Marilyn Pace Maxwell, our workforce and our community. We could not have done it without you!
If you'd like to read a digital copy of our 50th anniversary booklet highlighting MEOC's history and paying tribute to many friends who helped make us who we are today, scan the QR code at left with your smartphone.
MICHAEL WAMPLER
SENIOR
Michael K. Wampler
Stephanie
BOARD
A.J. Hatmaker, Chair, Lee County
Ethel Daniels, Vice-Chair, City of Norton
Nancy Bailey, Wise County
Eleanor S. Cantrell, M.D., Wise County
Pamela Collie-Price, Wise County
Gretchen Cope, Scott County
Steve Garrett, Lee County
Kim Dorton, Scott County
MEOC Board of Directors meets the third Tuesday of February, April, June, August, October and December at 10 a.m. at MEOC’s administrative office building, 1501 3rd Ave. E., Big Stone Gap, Va.
MEOC Advisory Council meets quarterly on the second Thursday of March, June, September and December at 10:30 a.m. at MEOC’s administrative office building.
HOW TO REACH US
Main office
Physical address: 1501 Third Ave. E. Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 Phone: 276-523-4202
Mountain Empire PACE
Physical address: 1508 Third Ave. E. Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 Phone: 276-523-0599
MEOC Transit
Physical address: 1503 Third Ave. E. Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 Phone: 276-523-7433
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What to know about Medicare
QUESTION
Medicare open enrollment began Oct. 15 and runs through Dec. 7. Now is the time to review your plan, ask questions and make changes for 2025 if you wish.
Navigating Medicare can be overwhelming, and understanding the differences between plans, enrollment periods and available benefits is crucial in making decisions. So, we are addressing some common questions about Medicare and its different options, including Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement plans and prescription drug coverage.
If you need additional help, MEOC’s Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP) can provide free individual insurance counseling for people with Medicare. Call 276-523-4202 to schedule an appointment.
What’s the difference between Original Medicare and a Medicare Advantage plan?
ANSWER
ORIGINAL MEDICARE
• Includes Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance).
• You can join a separate Medicare drug plan to get Medicare drug coverage (Part D).
• You can use any doctor or hospital that takes Medicare, anywhere in the U.S.
• To help pay your out-of-pocket costs in Original Medicare (like your 20% coinsurance), you can also shop for and buy Medicare Supplemental Insurance (Medigap).
• No referral for a specialist needed in most cases.
• No yearly limit for what you pay out of pocket.
MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLAN
• Combines Part A, B and often your prescription drug coverage (Part D) in one health plan that is being managed by a private company.
• Must cover all the same things as Medicare Parts A and B. However, may charge different amounts than you would pay through Original Medicare.
• May also cover services that Original Medicare doesn’t pay for, such as eye exams, hearing exams and dental services.
• In most cases, you’ll need to use health care providers that participate in the plan’s network and service area. Some plans may offer non-emergency coverage out of network, but typically at a higher cost.
• May require referral for a specialist.
• Most plans have an out-of-pocket maximum of $4,500-$11,000 for in-network services.
QUESTION
How do I know what the best plan is for me?
ANSWER
Knowing which plan is best for you can be difficult and challenging to navigate. A plan that might work for someone else may not be the right plan for you. It is important to consider your medical history, your current medications and your health providers when choosing a plan. You want to make sure your doctor is in network and your medications will be covered. If you need assistance with deciding which plan is best for you, contact your local VICAP counselor who can help you navigate the different plans.
QUESTION
What’s the difference between a Medicare Advantage Plan and a Supplement Plan?
ANSWER
A Medicare Advantage Plan combines Part A, B and often your prescription drug coverage (Part D) in one health plan that is being managed by a private company and may include vision, hearing and dental coverage. Supplemental Plans (Medigap) are sold by private insurance companies and can help pay some
of the remaining 20 percent of health care costs that Original Medicare does not cover, such as copayments, coinsurance and deductibles. Medigap does not cover long term care, vision, dental or hearing aids. Medigaps are standardized and must follow federal and state laws. All plans offer the same basic benefits no matter where you live, how much you pay or from which insurance company you buy the insurance policy.
QUESTION
Can I get a Medicare Supplement plan at any time?
ANSWER
You can enroll in a supplemental plan at any time. However, if you enroll outside of your Guaranteed Issue Right period, you will be subject to medical underwriting and may be charged higher premiums if approved. The best time to buy a Medigap policy is during your Guaranteed Issue Right period. This six-month period begins the first month you have Medicare Part B and are 65 and older.
QUESTION
Does Original Medicare cover dental and vision?
ANSWER
No, Original Medicare doesn’t include dental and vision. If you would like dental and vision coverage, you would need to purchase a separate plan.
QUESTION
Do I have to enroll in a Part D (Prescription Drug Insurance) plan?
ANSWER
Prescription Drug Plans are optional and offered to anyone with Medicare. Even if you don’t take prescription drugs now, you should consider enrolling in Medicare drug coverage. If you decide not to enroll in prescription drug coverage when you’re first eligible, and you don’t have other creditable prescription drug coverage, you’ll likely pay a late enrollment penalty should you decide to enroll in a prescription drug plan later.
QUESTION
How do I know if my medications will be covered under my current plan for the next year?
ANSWER
It is important to make sure your plan will cover your medications for the following year. To verify that, contact your plan provider or a SHIP counselor or visit medicare. gov and log in to your account during Open Enrollment, which runs each year from October 15 – December 7.
QUESTION
I just moved to the area from a different state. How long do I have to switch Advantage plans?
ANSWER
You’ll be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to switch plans, which is for two months beginning the date you moved.
Reminder: If you had state Medicaid, you will need to reapply for Medicaid with the state you move to.
QUESTION
What’s the difference between Medicaid and Medicare?
ANSWER
Medicaid is a state program that provides health insurance to individuals with limited income and resources. Eligibility and benefits vary by state.
Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance to people who are 65 or older, or younger people with certain disabilities, regardless of income. If eligible, you can have both Medicare and Medicaid. Medicare would be the primary coverage, and Medicaid would be the secondary payor. You may also consider joining a dual special needs plan (D-SNP), which would combine your Medicaid and Medicare into one plan, along with additional benefits.
QUESTION
I have a Medicare Advantage plan, and I’ve heard I have
an over-the-counter allowance. What does that mean?
ANSWER
An over-the-counter (OTC) allowance can be used to buy everyday items at pharmacies and participating retail stores. The benefit is similar to a health savings account (HSA) and can cover a variety of items such as medicines that can be purchased over the counter, band aids, first aid supplies, etc. With this coverage, you receive a set dollar amount per year, per quarter or per month.
QUESTION
What is Extra Help? How can I apply?
ANSWER
Extra Help is a Medicare program to help people with limited income and resources to help pay for Medicare drug coverage premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and other costs. You will automatically get Extra Help if you receive full Medicaid, receive help paying your part B premium (from a Medicare Savings Program) and/ or receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). If you don’t already receive Extra Help and would like to apply, you may do so at ssa.gov. For more information about Extra Help, or for free assistance in submitting your application, contact your local VICAP counselor.
QUESTION
I’ve lost my Medicaid and I have a Dual Special Needs Plan (D-SNP). Do I need to switch plans?
ANSWER
Yes, you will need to switch plans. Your current insurance provider will send you a letter regarding your loss of coverage and advise you of an end date for your plan. You will have until the date your plan ends to enroll in a different plan. In the meantime, your plan will continue to cover your Medicare covered services. For assistance with enrolling in a new plan, contact your local VICAP counselor.
Have more questions? Call MEOC’s Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP) counselor at 276-523-4202.
We offer a full spectrum of services designed to help older adults remain independent and in their own homes as long as possible.
Coordinated Healthcare: Primary and emergency care, hospitalization
Transportation: Rides to and from the PACE center and appointments
Therapies: Occupational, physical and speech
Social Engagement: Group activities, crafts and more
Prescription Medications: Pre-packaged and delivered to your home
In-Home Support: Personal care and homemaker services
Specialty Care: Dental, vision and hearing
Nutrition Services: Meals and dietary counseling
WHO WE SERVE: You may be eligible for Mountain Empire PACE if you are at least age 55 and living in Lee, Scott or Wise counties or the City of Norton and are eligible for nursing facility level of care but can live safely at home with support.
Emergency heating assistance available
Mountain Empire Older Citizens (MEOC) will accept applications through March 31 for its Emergency Fuel Fund for the Elderly, a program that helps older adults in Lee, Wise and Scott counties and the City of Norton in danger of being without heat in the winter.
Eligible applicants must be at least 60 years old and have an income at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level. The fund can assist with electric bills or the purchase of wood, coal, propane or heating oil.
To apply, contact MEOC at 276-523-4202. You may also begin the application online at www.meoc.org; on the main menu, click on "fuel assistance."
Since 1976, MEOC’s Emergency Fuel Fund has
provided critical heating assistance to older adults in need, relying solely on donations from local businesses, individuals, churches and community organizations. All donations to the fund go directly toward heating expenses for older adults in our region, with none used for administrative costs.
Community members are encouraged to contribute to the Emergency Fuel Fund at any time. Donations can be made online at www.meoc. org, mailed to MEOC, Attn: EFF, P.O. Box 888, Big Stone Gap, VA 24219, or dropped off at MEOC’s administrative offices at 1501 Third Ave. E., Big Stone Gap.
EMERGENCY FUEL FUND - THE BASICS
ELIGIBILITY
The Emergency Fuel Fund for the Elderly has three basic requirements. You must:
• Be at least age 60.
• Live in Lee, Scott or Wise counties or the City of Norton.
• Have income at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level. For a one-person household, the monthly income limit is $1,883. For a two-person household, the monthly income limit is $2,555.
HOW IT HELPS
Those who qualify may receive assistance once per program year. The fund will pay up to $300 on one electric bill or purchase two tons of coal, $300 worth of wood or 100 gallons of propane or heating oil.
HOW TO APPLY
Call MEOC Monday through Friday, 8:30 am4:30 pm, at 276-523-4202 and say you are calling to apply for fuel assistance.
WHAT ELSE YOU NEED TO KNOW
• You must provide some basic information, including your name, contact information, the number of people in your household and income.
• You must provide your account number if you request help with an electric bill.
• If requesting assistance buying propane or heating oil, your tank must be able to hold at least 100 gallons.
48th Annual Walkathon
The annual MEOC Walkathon is the primary fundraiser for the Emergency Fuel Fund for the Elderly. This year’s event, held on May 5 along Big Stone Gap’s Greenbelt Trail, raised over $101,640, with additional contributions bringing the total to nearly $157,640. Thanks to everyone who participated!
Connections Senior Centers make location changes
MEOC has changed some Connections Senior Center locations in Wise and Scott Counties.
In Wise County, the Pound Senior Center relocated to a larger venue at Zion Family Ministries, 1613 Norton Rd, Wise, behind the Ridgeview Shopping Center. Meetings are held every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
In Scott County, the Hiltons and Nickelsville sites have merged into one location at Holston View Methodist Church in Weber City, where meetings are held every Monday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Connections Senior Centers offer a welcoming space for individuals aged 60 and older to enjoy a free nutritious meal, socialization and activities. All centers are equipped with internet access and smart televisions, providing programming such as exercise classes, nutrition education, virtual tours and more. Attendance is free, though donations are appreciated, and transportation is available for those in need.
Other locations include Big Stone Gap, Coeburn, Norton, Jonesville and Pennington Gap.
Call MEOC at 276-523-4202 to learn more about what our Connections Senior Centers can offer you.
Project enhances internet access for older adults
A year-long project to provide high-speed spacebased satellite internet to 75 underserved older adults in MEOC’s congregate nutrition programs in Wise and Lee counties was completed earlier this year.
Participants can use the service for telehealth appointments and to participate in programming at MEOC’s Senior Connection Centers.
MEOC partnered with Wise County Industrial Development Authority, Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority, and the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services in the initiative, which began in September 2024.
The project provided free Starlink satellite equipment, installation and two years of service to participating individuals. Additionally, Samsung tablets were distributed to recipients, ensuring they have the tools to make the most of their new internet access.
Gala benefits CAC
Southwest Virginia Children's Advocacy Center staff pose for a photo at the 2024 Janie Dockery Memorial Gala, which raised nearly $10,290 after expenses for the center.
The event, held Saturday, Sept. 14, at Mountain Empire Community College’s Goodloe Center, raises money for emergency supplies for the families of children who receive CAC services. Based at MEOC in Big Stone Gap, the CAC serves Lee, Scott, Wise and Dickenson counties and the City of Norton. The CAC allows a multidisciplinary team to work together to handle child abuse cases in the region.
Billy Byington of Pennington Gap is among 75 MEOC congregate nutrition program participants to receive free Starlink equipment and two years of service as part of a project to provide internet access to underserved older adults.
Connections Centers unite for day of fun
Participants from all eight of MEOC’s
Connections Senior Centers gathered at Bullitt Park, Big Stone Gap, on July 24 for a picnic and plenty of fun and fellowship. The event included lunch and lots of games like Bingo, cornhole, a scavenger hunt and more. Everyone enjoyed visiting with old friends and meeting new ones.
A DAY OF CELEBRATION
A half century of service
More than 400 people joined MEOC staff on June 8 at the UVA-Wise Prior Convocation Center to celebrate the agency's 50th anniversary.
The event featured guest speakers, including Virginia Del. Terry Kilgore, Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services Commissioner Kathryn A. Hayfield, MEOC Board of Directors Chairman A.J. Hatmaker, and MEOC Executive Director Emeritus Marilyn Pace Maxwell, who was the highlight of the day.
Guests enjoyed a buffet lunch and live music by 4-HIM and Denise Glass. Representatives of various area agencies also attended to set up information tables.
We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who attended and supported this milestone event!
Here, and on the next two pages, are a small number of
Joy and celebration filled the air as guests and they show off their moves
Del. Terry Kilgore.
MEOC Executive Director Michael Wampler.
MEOC Executive Director Emeritus Marilyn Pace Maxwell.
dancing to The Twist.
CELEBRATION
MEOC Board of Directors
Chairman AJ Hatmaker.
Staff and guests mingle as they wait for the event to get underway.
staff danced during the live musical performances. Here, Twist.
Dennis Horton was the agency's deputy director from 1978-2019.
Nancy Smith, with husband H William Smith, was among MEOC's first employees.
friends, laughter,
music, memories
Mountain Empire Transit Director Mitch Elliott (fifth
for the launch of METGo!'s Big Stone Gap/Appalachia route.
METGo! growth continues
Mountain Empire Transit’s on-demand service, METGo!, continues to see great success following the addition of a new route earlier this year.
In September, METGo! trips accounted for 50 percent of the public transit service’s total ridership. METGo! is a free service similar to Uber or Lyft, allowing riders within designated service zones to hail through a smartphone app.
METGo! added a new route covering Big Stone Gap and Appalachia in May of this year, following its success in the Wise-Norton area since launching in June 2021.
As of Nov. 1, in the Big Stone Gap/Appalachia service zone, METGo! has completed 4,579 trips since launching the route, serving 6,365 passengers with an average utilization rate (how many people are on the van simultaneously) of 3.4 riders per hour. Since METGo! launched in Wise and Norton, it has provided 105,145 trips and transported nearly 153,450 riders as of Nov. 1.
Call 276-523-7433 to learn more about any Mountain Empire Transit Services.
Scan the QR codes below to download the METGo! app.
TOWN OF BIG STONE GAP PHOTO
from left) speaks during a May ribbon cutting ceremony
Mountain Empire team wins state transit ‘roadeo’
Mountain Empire Transit secured the top team award for the fourth consecutive year at the annual Community Transportation Association of Virginia’s Paratransit Roadeo on April 27 in Galax.
This achievement marks the ninth time MET has clinched the top honor in the past 11 years.
Competing against transit operators from across the state, MET’s four-member team was tested on various skills, focusing on safety and passenger sensitivity. Team members won several individual honors and together earned the highest score in the competition.
The roadeo features two divisions, body-on-chassis and mini-van, in which operators complete a series of tests, including a written safety exam, pre-trip inspection, wheelchair securement exercise and an obstacle course.
INDIVIDUAL ACHIEVEMENTS
JEFF WHISMAN
• Second place overall
• First place, right tire clearance
• First place, diminishing clearance
BETTY WHISMAN
• First place, passenger stop
JON LOVELL
• Third place overall
• First place, wheelchair securement
• First place, left-hand reverse
• First place, right-hand reverse
IRENE MULLINS
• First place, judgment stop
The 2024 Mountain Empire Transit Roadeo team includes, left to right, Betty Whisman, Jeff Whisman, Irene Mullins and Jon Lovell.
HONORING EXPERIENCE
Luncheon celebrates agency's older workers
On Thursday, Oct. 17, MEOC’s Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) hosted a special luncheon at Lonesome Pine Country Club to honor program enrollees and all agency employees age 55 and older.
The event showcases SCSEP and recognizes the vital role of older workers in the workforce, noted Director of Nutrition & Senior Employment Services Kristen Rutherford.
“We want to thank you all for your dedication and commitment to MEOC as an employee 55 or older. Today we celebrate all that you do to make our community a better place to live and work,” Rutherford said.
“Older workers bring a wealth of knowledge, unique perspectives, loyalty and varied life experiences to the workforce today,” she added.
Executive Director Michael Wampler also expressed appreciation to all of MEOC’s older workers. “The experience, skills and dedication that our older workers bring to MEOC are immeasurable,” Wampler noted after the event. “MEOC is committed to providing job opportunities for older adults, recognizing the invaluable role they play in our communities.”
This year’s luncheon had a fun “rodeo” theme, with guests dressing up, enjoying country music and dancing and playing Bingo.
Bottom
At right, (pictured from left): Teresa Shoop, Judy Willis and Sonya Farmer, who are all employees at MEOC's central administrative offices.
row, center: Pennington Gap Center Manager Kathy Rogers.
Left to right: Doug Ashley, Ira Turner, Raymond 'Lucky' Woodard,
EXPERIENCE
Above: Rodeo was the theme of this year’s luncheon, and guests were encouraged to dress up. Costume contest winners are: Jerri Adams (far right), first place; Melinda Kelly (center), second place; and Mindy Moses, third place.
Below: Randal Willis (left) & JC Summers, along with Lucky Woodard, entertained guests with a lip-synced performance of 'Man of Constant Sorrow' from the movie 'O Brother, Where Art Thou.'
Woodard, JC Summers and Randal Willis.
Maintenance Supervisor Doug Ashley displays the 2024 Mae French Outstanding Older Worker Award presented during the annual Older Worker Luncheon. Ashley, who donned cowboy attire for the event's rodeo theme, has worked at MEOC since 2009.
Ashley earns MEOC older worker award
MEOC has recognized the dedication and work ethic of Maintenance Supervisor Doug Ashley, presenting him with the Mae French Outstanding Older Worker Award at this year’s annual Older Worker Luncheon on Oct. 17 at Lonesome Pine Country Club.
The annual award honors an MEOC employee aged 55 or older who exemplifies service, loyalty, commitment and kindness — values embodied by Mae French, a beloved MEOC employee who retired at age 98 after nearly two decades of service. (Read more about Mrs. French at right.)
Ashley joined MEOC in 2009 as a transit driver and became maintenance supervisor in 2016. From maintaining buildings and grounds to playing Santa during Christmas activities for our Children’s Services Department, Ashley is known for going the extra mile for coworkers and clients. His contributions extend well beyond his official role.
“Doug always goes above and beyond what is
required. He keeps the building and grounds in top-notch condition. Doug is an asset to MEOC and a friend to us all,” MEOC Chief Financial Officer Stephanie Sprinkle said.
MEOC Executive Director Michael Wampler added, “Doug has been a tremendous coworker and friend to so many of us, but perhaps his biggest admirers are within MEOC children’s services. They simply know him as Santa.”
Co-workers who nominated him highlighted his commitment and willingness to assist in any way needed.
“He will take on extra tasks without excuse or complaint, including being Santa Claus at Christmas. Doug has helped move and deliver heavy objects and has even gone so far as to go to a client’s home to help when needed. Whatever the task, Doug is always willing and available to give a helping hand,” said one coworker.
“Doug really does embody the spirit of MEOC with his can-do attitude and willingness to devote so much time and effort into assisting anyone who needs it,” commented another.
MEOC congratulates Ashley on this well-deserved recognition and thanks him for his invaluable service to the agency and the community!
Who was Mae French?
The late Mae French deserves much credit for the success of MEOC’s first congregate nutrition site in Norton. Mrs. French started as an assistant to the site manager in 1976 at age 81 through the Green Thumb Program. She worked at MEOC for 17 years until her retirement at 98.
Her commitment to MEOC’s mission was so profound that, in 1994, the organization established the Mae French Outstanding Older Worker Award in her honor. This award recognizes individuals who exemplify Mrs. French’s dedication and service to the community, which are at the heart of MEOC. The award is presented each year during MEOC’s annual older worker luncheon.
Fundraisers support Mountain Laurel Center
Two major fundraisers this year raised more than $35,000 for the Mountain Laurel Cancer Support & Resource Center and will provide essential assistance to local cancer patients and their families.
The 13th Annual Harold Lester Memorial Golf Tournament, held on June 14 at Lonesome Pine Country Club in Big Stone Gap, raised approximately $14,000.
The 2024 Leigh Ann Bolinskey Memorial 5K Run/Walk on Sept. 6 brought in $21,350.
Money raised at both events will assist with travel expenses for cancer treatments, liquid nutrition supplements, utility bills and other costs not covered by other resources.
HAROLD LESTER MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
Seventeen teams participated in the tournament, with proceeds benefiting the Harold Lester Memorial Fund, which helps cancer patients in Lee, Scott, and
Wise counties and the City of Norton. The fund was established in 2011 in memory of Harold Lester, a respected educator and administrator in the Wise County School System.
“The funds raised will directly assist local cancer patients,” said Mountain Laurel Center Coordinator Leah Spivey. “Facing a cancer diagnosis can come with overwhelming financial burdens. The Harold Lester Memorial Fund eases some of that stress by helping with expenses that other resources might not cover.
“We are especially thankful for the Lester family’s unwavering support. Their dedication, along with our sponsors’ generosity and team participation, makes a significant difference in the lives of those battling cancer,” Spivey added.
LEIGH ANN BOLINSKEY 5K
The event is named in honor of Leigh Ann Bolinskey, the
Mountain Laurel Center’s former director who passed away from leiomyosarcoma in 2014. First, second and third place medals are awarded in various age groups.
Spivey expressed appreciation for the broad community support, including sponsors, participants and volunteers.
The Mountain Laurel Center’s services are available because of community support and monetary donations from various sources, noted Spivey. “We are so appreciative of everyone who supported the 5K in any way,” she stated.
WANT TO HELP?
Tax-deductible donations to the Mountain Laurel Center can be made year-round online at www. meoc.org or by mailing checks to P.O. Box 888, Big Stone Gap, VA 24219. For more information, contact Mountain Laurel Center Coordinator Spivey at 276-5234202 or leah.spivey@meoc.org.
Runners leave the start line of the Leigh Ann Bolinskey 5K in September. The event is one of two major fundraisers for the Mountain Laurel Center.
A ministry team from Staunton River Baptist Association volunteered with Southwest Virginia Partnership for a week in late July and early August to build what Jan Johnson, one of SWVP’s year-round missionaries, said is the largest ramp ever built by the Partnership. Members of the team are pictured on a portion of the ramp. An MEOC care coordinator referred the homeowners’ need to the Partnership. The elderly couple, one of whom is in a wheelchair, need the ramp for access into and out of their home.
Volunteer teams repair homes across region
As Mountain Empire Older Citizens care coordinators and social workers assess older persons for services, they often encounter homes with needs for accessibility modifications as well as other repairs to make homes safe, warm and dry. Unfortunately, there is no formal service to address these needs. Over the years, MEOC has relied on faith organizations to meet these needs. Not only do the homeowners, who are usually frail, elderly individuals on fixed incomes, need someone to do the work, they cannot afford the materials.
Since 2009, southwest Virginia has been blessed to have a local, year-round home repairs ministry serving the counties of Lee, Wise and Scott and the City of Norton. Recent developments have resulted in the ministry expanding into Dickenson and Russell counties, as well.
Southwest Virginia Partnership (SWVP) came
into being through the efforts of three local Baptist Associations, Clinch Valley, Powell River and Wise, in partnership with the Baptist General Association of Virginia. It has since been incorporated as a nonprofit organization.
SWVP is headquartered in Nickelsville in a building which previously housed a nursing home. Missionaries Jan and Tony Johnson live there year-round and facilitate the stays of volunteer teams who mainly come in the summertime and usually minister for one week each. The building, affectionately called The Manor, has been renovated and expanded, can house 56 volunteers and is equipped with kitchen facilities and showers. There are also six camping sites with water, sewage and electric hookups.
Teams come from all over the state of Virginia and sometimes beyond. They consist of people of all
ages, which allows the younger generation to work alongside and learn from the older generation. In addition to home repairs, teams also volunteer at nursing homes, food banks and other helping organizations.
The work of SWVP dovetails perfectly with the MEOC initiative it calls Faith Works. This partnership combines MEOC’s commitment to serve older persons with the greatest economic or social need with the commitment of churches and people of faith to serve.
Faith organizations and individuals of faith support MEOC in a variety of ways, including financial support and providing meeting space for MEOC’s congregate programs, but especially in providing home repairs and modifications to make homes safe, warm, dry and
accessible.
So far in 2024, SWVP has welcomed 23 teams with 280 members from 72 different churches across the state. The teams provided a total of 36 construction (home repair/ modification) jobs along with
SWVP covers the cost of materials for the projects they undertake.
“Through this unique partnership we combine our talents, finances and best efforts to touch hearts and change lives by focusing on meeting housing needs and sharing God’s love
The work of Southwest Virginia Partnership dovetails perfectly with the MEOC initiative it calls Faith Works. This partnership combines MEOC’s commitment to serve older persons with the greatest economic or social need with the commitment of churches and people of faith to serve.
58 service projects. Among the constructions jobs were bathroom remodels (including making bathrooms accessible), floor repairs, window replacements and building ramps. Many of those projects were done for individuals referred by MEOC care coordinators or social workers.
as we engage in projects which enhance the lives of those living in Dickenson, Lee, Scott, Russell and Wise counties,” said Partnership Executive Director Steve Collins.
Steve is also pastor of Nickelsville First Baptist Church, which hosted an MEOC congregate meals site for many years.
FROM THE
The June 2008 edition of The Mountain Empire News featured a front-page announcement that MEOC had received the final $600,000 needed to start construction of the Mountain Empire PACE Center.
Then Ninth District Rep. Rick Boucher visited MEOC to announce award of a U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development low-interest loan that would complete the funding package to break ground on a new 17,000-square-foot facility to house the Program of AllInclusive Care for the Elderly.
PACE had opened its doors to the first participants in April 2008 and temporarily operated in a space at MEOC's main building.
Services began at the new PACE Center on December 9, 2009, where they continue today.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EDITION
• Norton Elementary School students raised $4,500 for the Emergency Fuel Fund for the Elderly during its annual "100 days, 100 pennies" campaign. That marked the 11th year the school donated to the fund to celebrate the 100th day of school, bringing the total amount donated to just under $29,000.
• The 32nd Annual MEOC Walkathon, held the previous month, brought in $131,000,
falling about $24,000 short of the event goal. Ninety-two-year old Ida Bevins was honored as the oldest walker at the event.
• A third annual rubber duck race brought in $5,000 for the Emergency Fuel Fund.
• MEOC's advisory committees at the time were highlighted along with photographs from recent meetings.
• A team of Mountain Empire Transit drivers participated in the 2008 Transit Roadeo in April at Williamsburg. Mechanic Danny Stallard, a former driver, was recognized at the event for his numerous awards over the years,
including the 2002 National Champion and Ricon Driver of the Year and a long list of state and national honors between 1999 and 2006.
• About 100 people gathered at the Goodloe Center at Mountain Empire Community College to participate in a community forum, which provided valuable information for seniors, their family members and caregivers. The event was co-sponsored by MEOC, Ridgecrest Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Wise County Department of Social Services and estate planning attorney Matthew Crun.
