Senior Neighbors 16 Over 60 Awards Gala - 2021 Program

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE 2021 HONOREES! SENIOR NEIGHBORS 16 OVER 60 AWARDS-2021 n 1

Positive change knows no age.

Congratulations to this year’s honorees of Senior Neighbors 16 Over 60. Your dedication and commitment to our community is appreciated.

VAF

DAVID & CAROL

VAN ANDEL FAMILY

foundation

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LIVE EVENT Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2021 | 6:00pm Live Event featuring:

• Inspirational Stories from the Honorees.

• Touching Tale of Finding New Purpose.

• Memorable Moments and Entertaining Banter!

PROGRAM CONTENTS About the 16 Over 60 Awards Gala ������������������������������������������������������������������ 5 Senior Neighbors Programs and Services ������������������������������������������������������ 6 2020 Impact Report: Adapting to Change ����������������������������������������������������� 10 16 Over 60 Alumni ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 12 Honoree Profiles Fred Bivins ���������������������17 Marilyn Booker ���������������17 Larry Byle � ����������������������19 Lois Carey ����������������������19 Deborah Clanton ����������� 21 Reverend Bob Evans ������� 21 Dr. James Fahner ����������� 23 Marlin Feyen ����������������� 23 Dr. Kevin Foley ��������������� 25 Dr. Ronald Grifka ����������� 25

Oliver Hale �������������������� Alice Johnson ���������������� Harold Mast ������������������ Pauline Meyer � ��������������� Sr. M. Rosita Schiller � ������� Anthony Spallone ����������

27 27 28 28 30 30

The 16 Over 60 Awards Gala celebrates the diverse and inspiring roles people 60 years of age or more play in our community.

To register and learn more about the event, visit: SENIOR NEIGHBORS 16 OVER 60 AWARDS-2021 n 3 seniorneighbors.org/16over60

GOLD SPONSOR • 2021 COMMUNITY PARTNER IN PHILANTHROPY

r This summer, 3 brand new Senio ke Neighbors buses hit the road to ma ation sure seniors can get to their destin l safely and in style! These buses wil help seniors with essential rides to Center, medical appointments, visits to a go. or any other location they need to

K

eeping seniors connected to their community and giving them access to reliable transportation is just one reason the Klopcic Family Foundation proudly supports Senior Neighbors.

Congratulations to this year’s Honorees!

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Wednesday, November 17, 2021 | 6pm Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park 1000 East Beltline Avenue NE, Grand Rapids Guests also can attend from the comfort of home

THIS EVENT INCLUDES Plated Dinner, Beverages, and an Opportunity to Support Local Seniors

RESERVE YOUR TABLE TODAY To reserve a seat or table, please scan the QR code below

Senior Neighbors continues to monitor applicable health and safety guidelines SENIOR NEIGHBORS 16 OVER 60 AWARDS-2021 n 5 and will update this event format if necessary.

The 16 Over 60 Awards Gala provides support for Senior Neighbors and its variety of programs.

Here to Help The 16 Over 60 Awards Gala supports Senior Neighbors in its mission to help West Michigan seniors stay independent, safe, and connected to the community.

For nearly 4,500 seniors each year, Senior Neighbors provides services that promote the well-being of older adults, especially to those with physical, social, or economic needs living in Kent County.

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CASE MANAGEMENT We work one-on-one with older adults to develop strategies and provide support, crisis assistance and referrals to overcome challenges that limit independence. Common concerns include finances, insurance, health and housing.

HOME REPAIR FOR VETERANS Giving back to our veterans is an honor. This program offers home repairs to veterans and their spouses at no cost to them. From changing locks to new flooring, the program strives to improve the safety, accessibility, and livability of the homes of veterans.

SENIOR CENTERS We have five area centers available to seniors for socializing, sharing a meal, exercising and learning new skills. These centers provide space for older adults to remain healthy, independent and connected to the community.

Locations are in Grand Rapids, Grandville, Lowell, Sparta and Walker.

HOME MAINTENANCE Our home maintenance team performs minor repairs for homeowners who do not have the support or resources to complete the repairs themselves. Limited seasonal lawn care and snow removal is also available.

HEALTHY AGING PROGRAMS We believe in the importance of keeping the body and mind active to help maintain independence. We offer a variety of programs throughout the area that encourage people to participate regardless of their fitness levels.

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TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

We connect older adults to affordable ways to get to the doctor, grocery store or our senior centers so they can maintain their independence.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

We connect adults with local volunteer opportunities that allow them to use their skills and talents – or learn new ones – to help others in our community. Experience welcomed, but not required!

Senior Neighbors is funded in part by: Donations from Individuals and Foundations; Aging and Adult Services Agency of Michigan; Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan; City of Grandville; Corporation for National and Community Service; Heart of West Michigan United Way; Kent County Senior Millage; Michigan Department of Health and Human Services; Michigan Department of Transportation; Older Americans Act; Kent County Veterans Affairs; Meals on Wheels Western Michigan; State of Michigan.

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We're in Your We'reCorner in Your Corner

People today can spend nearly half their lives over the age of 50.

That's a lot of living. So, it helps to have a wise friend and fierce defender like AARP in your community.

People can spend nearly half their lives over the age of 50.

Find ustoday at aarp.org/mi.

That's a lot of living. So, it helps to have a wise friend and fierce defender like AARP in your community.

Find us at aarp.org/mi.

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Get a $10 gift card just for attending!

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Call 1-616-512-0019 (TTY: 711) or visit HAP.org/event now to save your seat. *You must continue to pay your Part B premium.

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Y0076_ALL 2022 Community Ad_0032_M SENIOR NEIGHBORS 16 OVER 60 AWARDS-2021 n

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IMPACT REPORT

Adapting to Change Aging can bring unwelcome change: reduced physical abilities, increased financial strains, staggering loneliness, or the loss of independence. By helping seniors adapt and face those changes, our programs and services offer hope and create real solutions. Throughout 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic brought unwelcome change to us all. At Senior Neighbors, we responded quickly to support area seniors as they bravely navigated even more change. We’re delivering more online programming and focusing our resources on individual support. With your help, we’ll always stand beside West Michigan seniors.

Together, we’re helping them through the daunting changes of our world and in their own lives.

SERVING A DIVERSE SENIOR POPULATION. CLIENT GENDER

4,353 SENIORS SERVED

41% of clients have a disability

34% MALE

66%

FEMALE

CLIENT AGE

CLIENT RACE

49% Live Alone

According to the census, 91% of Kent County seniors identify as white. However, our clients identify as:

46%

White

66%

70 to 79

34%

African American

30%

80 to 89

16%

60 to 69

90+

4%

Asian

3%

Native American

1%

Hispanic

4%

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YOUR SUPPORT HELPS SENIORS ACCESS A NETWORK OF RESOURCES, Although Senior Centers were temporarily closed for in-person dining and socialization, seniors have been able to pick up meals or have them delivered. 96% reported 34,308 MEALS these meals helped them MEET DISTRIBUTED THEIR BASIC FOOD NEEDS. 5 SENIOR CENTERS SERVING KENT COUNTY Grand Rapids | Grandville | Lowell | Sparta | Walker 2021 SPOTLIGHT SENIOR NEIGHBORS CONTINUES TO HELP SENIORS GET ACCESS TO COVID VACCINES.

HEALTHY AGING FITNESS CLASSES OFFERED ONLINE 97% of participants indicated improvement in their physical abilities.

SENIOR SAFETY KITS Masks | Hand Sanitizer | Soap

Over 700 HOUSEHOLDS were provided Senior Safety Kits in the spring and summer. The kits included ESSENTIAL ITEMS that were difficult to find or afford.

STAY INDEPENDENT AND SAFE AND CONNECTED WITH COMMUNITY. HELPING WITH EMERGENCY NEEDS 94 clients improved their living situation after receiving funds to pay for medication, utility bills, food or other critical needs.

VETERAN HOME REPAIR

92% FEEL SAFER IN THEIR HOMES AFTER COMPLETED HOME REPAIRS

73 veterans and their spouses received NO-COST HOME REPAIR SERVICES to improve the safety and livability of their homes.

HELPING SENIORS WITH GREAT NEEDS Senior Neighbors works to ensure that lowincome seniors with the greatest need receive home-maintenance assistance. 84% of clients LIVE ON LESS THAN $2,000 A MONTH.

99% reported their financial situation improved or remained stable after working with a Case Manager.

97% increased their ability to ACCESS MEDICAL SERVICES and technology through transportation services.

Fiscal Year 2020: October 1, 2019-September 30, 2020 SENIOR NEIGHBORS 16 OVER 60 AWARDS-2021 n

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ALUMNI Recognizing 16 Over 60 Honorees of the Past 2018 HONOREES

Each year, since 2018, the 16 Over 60 Awards Gala has recognized and shared the contributions and impact of those over 60. These individuals, and all of those over 60 years of age, are an important part of the fabric of our community in West Michigan!

2019 HONOREES

To learn more about each of these engaged & inspiring honorees, visit seniorneighbors.org/16over60.

2020 HONOREES 12 n SENIOR NEIGHBORS 16 OVER 60 AWARDS-2021

Warm Congratulations To All the 16 Over 60 Awardees

Congratulations Lois Carey

Since 2004, you recruited dozens of volunteers who faithfully created more than 35,000 bouquets that brightened the doorsteps of patient homes week after week.

Creator, Lois Carey Hospice of Michigan Flower Delivery Program

You are an inspiration!

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protect yourself and your neighbors get a free* flu shot from your Meijer pharmacy. available for walk-ins or text “flu” to 75049 to schedule an appointment. *

free with most insurance plans

SENIOR NEIGHBORS 16 OVER 60 AWARDS-2021 n

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Advocate

Visionary

Helper of the Homeless

Mentor Pastor

Agent of Change

Educator

Artist Servant

Leader Grant Writer Engaged JOIN US IN CELEBRATING THE 16

Foster Parent

Volunteer

Flower Lady

& INSPIRING

Chef Sorority Leader

HONOREES FOR 2021

Organ Transplant Ambassador

Veteran Advocate

Community Leader

Medical Coach Mentor

The 16 Over 60 Awards Gala provides support for Senior Neighbors and its variety of programs.

4,353

SENIORS SERVED*

* Fiscal Year 2020

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84%

of clients live on

LESS THAN

2,000

$

per month*

HONOREES FRED BIVINS Arts Ambassador, Community Booster, Artist

W

hen Fred took an early retirement, he devoted himself to art, his studio, and the arts community in Grand Rapids.

As a woodturner and printmaker, he operates Vinecroft Studios which he developed into a hub for local artists with weekly Spaghetti Nights and annual gallery sales. According to one patron, Fred “is an incredible craftsman and woodworker, one of the few Renaissance men left in this world.” Described as both “Mr. Festival” and “Ambassador for the Arts in Grand Rapids,” Fred has been involved in the Festival of the Arts for more than 40 years. Through this work, he helps raise the profile of regional artists, encouraging them to create, exhibit, and successfully sell artwork in their own community. He also managed the bi-annual ArtPrize exhibition at the Women’s City Club. Fred sees his involvement in local arts as a way to “help in the future look of the arts in Grand Rapids.” His goal is to expose as many people, young and old, to as many artistic disciplines as possible. Fred also strives to improve quality of life in his community through service on the board of the Mitten Foundation and the Grand Rapids City Manager’s Art Advisory Committee.

MARILYN BOOKER Agent of Change, Facilitator, Relationship Builder

S

ince turning 60, Marilyn has devoted herself to helping others experience genuine and healthy relationships, see value in their own gifts, and be their authentic selves. She does this through her work at Dispute Resolution Center of West Michigan by promoting “restorative practices,” which seeks to build and repair positive relationships between people and communities. She has been instrumental in expanding restorative practices at every level at Wyoming Public Schools, helping students, teachers, and staff improve and repair relationships to better focus on their mission of education. She has worked with organizations such as Grand Valley State University, Kent County Prosecutor’s Office, City Attorney’s Office, Kent Intermediate School District, and several other school districts in Michigan to design restorative practices/ restorative justice programming. She has also provided training for a wide variety of other organizations throughout the state. Marilyn is passionate about restorative practices because she believes it can “have a major ripple effect on how human beings work together to create and live in a better society that acknowledges and values everyone.” She does not seek attention for her work; she simply hopes to inspire others to be their best selves, grow and help one another, and enjoy the ebbs and flows of life.

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Let’s build community together.

Proud to support Senior Neighbors and their engaged & inspiring 16 over 60!

mercbank.com

THE PETER C. & EMAJEAN COOK FOUNDATION APPRECIATE THE WORK OF THE 2021 HONOREES. Together, we can build a brighter tomorrow

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HONOREES LARRY BYLE Devoted Museum Volunteer, Inspiring Coach, Teacher

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arry’s volunteer work with the Grand Rapids Public Museum was like a second career. Starting as a docent in 1996, he quickly gravitated to the Van Dort Print Shop, where he demonstrated 1890’s printing processes for guests. Twentyfive years and more than 18,000 volunteer hours later, Larry was still there three days a week until cancer treatments slowed him down. A beloved inspiration to visitors and students, he was described as “simply an incredible human being.” For Larry, it was the hope of influencing the children visiting the shop, through education or encouragement, that spurred him on. Having taught Science at Hudsonville High School for 41 years and helping create the school’s Summer Science institute, Larry was a lifelong educator. He also mentored students coaching football and baseball and was named to the Michigan High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame. His love of sciences and nature also drove him to volunteer with the Sierra Club on projects in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and at Antietam National Battlefield. When Larry sadly lost his battle with cancer this summer, a former student wrote, “I want to thank Larry Byle for being my rock, my inspiration, and my hope for a more beautiful world.”

LOIS CAREY Flower Lady, Compassionate Volunteer, Senior Advocate

I

t has been said that Lois was born with a natural sprit to help, lead and make a difference. For 30 years she has demonstrated this, volunteering tirelessly throughout our community.

She actively promotes the well-being of local seniors through her service with the Area Agency on Aging’s Advocates for Senior Issues as well as Kent County’s Council on Aging. She participates in support groups to improve caregivers’ knowledge when caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s, and even appeared in a short film for a dementia support group. She regularly helps in many ways with Veteran Pinning Ceremonies.

For years, Lois and her late husband were active with the American Red Cross, taking on twelve separate three-week disaster assignments. Known as the Flower Lady, Lois also coordinated Hospice of Michigan’s Flower Program for 16 years, coordinating the delivery of more than 35,000 handcrafted bouquets to adults and children on hospice. An active member at Forest Hills Presbyterian Church, Lois co-sponsors monthly senior activities programs and has served for the past eight years on the Congregational Life Committee. For those affected by her devotion, Lois’ bright smile and engaging personality are “like a sunbeam on a gray Michigan winter day.”

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Porter Hills Village

Independent Living Assisted Living Memory Support Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation

Porter Hills Village is a Continuing Care Retirement Community, which means you can stay on campus should your care needs change. Residents enjoy chef-prepared meals, housekeeping, and amenities including a library, wellness center, coffee shop, salon, and more.

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HONOREES DEBORAH CLANTON Advocate for the Under-served, Community Organizer, Sorority Leader

D

eborah is not content being idle. After 30 years with the Kentwood District Court she retired in 2014 as the Court Administrator and the City’s first District Court Magistrate.

Now, finding fulfillment in helping others improve their life, she continues serving the community through multiple organizations. For 47 years she has been active with the public service organization Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and has helped raise more than $400,000 in local scholarship funds. She has served two terms on the board of the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute and currently chairs a committee.

Volunteering with the non-partisan group PROACTIVE, she championed efforts to persuade residents to register and vote, participate in the census, and get vaccinated. She volunteers at the Samaritas Affordable Living Community, on the board of the Calvin Prison Initiative Foundation, and on the Healthier Communities Black Vaccination Resources Committee. Her four decades of faithful worship and service at Messiah Baptist Church include 15 years of teaching Sunday school, 35+ years as an usher and currently serving on the Pastor’s leadership team. Believing strongly in the scripture of Luke 12:48, “To whom much is given, much is required,” Deborah’s passion for service reflects her faith.

REVEREND BOB EVANS Mentor, Non-Profit Leader, Pastor

R

everend Bob Evans has been active in the Heartside Neighborhood for many years, helping countless individuals get a second chance at life through his work as a case manager. When he retired from case management after turning 60, his passion for helping others drove him to a full-time position as a donor relations officer at Guiding Light as well as many volunteer roles throughout the community. At Guiding Light, Bob seeks and provides resources for individuals who are struggling with homelessness and addiction, helping them fulfill their God-given potential. Outside of this work, he consults with two non-profit organizations, helping them expand their services through improved donor relations and community connections. He also serves on the boards of 501(c)(3) church organizations and volunteers with his own church as a bible teacher and supply pastor. In addition, he records a weekly online devotional for people in recovery. “I’m a preacher at heart,” he says. “If someone asks me to preach, no matter what it’s for, I happily oblige.” Bob believes everyone deserves to make amends and discover their own path to a better life. For him, the joy of helping people become successful community members is a gift that keeps giving.

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Varnum salutes

Senior Neighbors’ 2021 CLASS OF “16 OVER 60” Thank you for your service and contributions to West Michigan!

www.varnumlaw.com Ann Arbor | Birmingham | Detroit | Grand Haven | Grand Rapids | Kalamazoo | Naples, FL | Novi

Your legal resource.

Warner Norcross + Judd congratulates all of the 16 Over 60 honorees for their commitment to community.

wnj.com 22 n SENIOR NEIGHBORS 16 OVER 60 AWARDS-2021

HONOREES DR. JAMES FAHNER Health Care Hero, Visionary Leader, Medical Mentor

S

ince graduating from medical school in 1983, Dr. Fahner has dedicated his career to treating children with cancer. As founder and Endowed Division Chief of Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology at Spectrum Health Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, he has helped mold and nurture the hospital’s children’s cancer treatment program to become one of the largest in the Midwest, nationally recognized for excellence and innovation. Recently, the hospital’s first leadership endowment was established and named after Dr. Fahner. He also is an Associate Professor at MSU and the Medical Director of Strategic Philanthropy and Provider Engagement for Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.

His volunteer service includes board work for the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Foundation, Spectrum Health, the Hospice of Michigan Foundation, Van Andel Institute, and Van Andel Institute Graduate School. For the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Michigan, he serves as Medical Advisor and works to measure the positive outcomes children derive from having a wish granted. In recent years, he has received numerous awards and honors for his work and dedication. As a mentor to those pursuing health careers, Dr. Fahner finds hope and joy each day in helping inspire a “circle of curiosity, learning, service, and dedication to community and compassion.”

MARLIN FEYEN Community Builder, Servant Leader, Traveler

T

hough quiet and humble about his efforts, Marlin is a servant leader and his actions speak loudly. He lives with purpose and pursues goals. With his partner Bob Zylstra, Marlin grew Feyen Zylstra from a small electrical firm to a nationally recognized electrical services and industrial tech company. Now, stepping away from the firm he cofounded, he has adopted five priorities: healthy living, meaningful engagement, mentoring, life-long learning, and travel. His engagement and commitment to community remains strong.

For four years, he chaired Safe Places Alliance and advocated with the City Commission and State legislature to intervene in the violence of core urban areas. He serves on the board of Roosevelt Park Ministries, advocating on behalf of recent immigrants from Hispanic cultures. With the Social Justice Group of Westminister Presbyterian Church, he pursues racial justice in housing, employment and the judicial system. Marlin also recently worked on the strategic plan and feasibility study for the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, Chairs the Grand Rapids Public Museum Board of Trustees and participates in the campaign to revitalize the Grand River. Marlin believes it takes participation by all citizens to meet the full needs in a society, and he leads by example.

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The Sisters of Mercy, having established Saint Mary’s Hospital in 1893, congratulate and bless

Sister Mary Rosita Schiller,RSM as she continues our ministry to the people of Grand Rapids and beyond.

Warm Congratulations To All the 16 Over 60 Awardees

Congratulations James B. Fahner MD

More than 25 years ago, you had a vision that changed everything.

Founder, James B. Fahner MD Pediatric Hospice Program Jo Elyn Nyman Anchors Programs for Children at Hospice of Michigan Division Chief - Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Helen DeVos Childrens Hospital

888-247-5701 www.hom.org

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Through your inspired leadership, Hospice of Michigan is honored to provide our most precious patients and their families the specialized care they need to celebrate every moment of life.

You are our health care hero!

HONOREES DR. KEVIN FOLEY Dementia Care Advocate, Innovator, Educator

D

r. Foley’s career has focused on improving care for adults suffering from dementia and expanding educational opportunities for health professionals in dementia care. In 2001, he began caring for older adults with dementia with a local internal medicine practice. At the time, Kent County lacked specialty services for diagnosing and managing memory disorders. Seeing the need, Kevin garnered support from area physicians and community leaders to establish the Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Disorders Service, the first in West Michigan to provide comprehensive services to patients and their caregivers. As the clinic medical director since 2003, he has personally cared for nearly 8,000 patients with memory loss and established vital synergies with organizations and agencies, improving the lives of those struggling with dementia. He also has mentored hundreds of students, residents, and health professionals to broaden their knowledge and care management skills. Since turning 60, he’s focused on a new collaboration with Michigan State University supporting post-mortem, neuropathological studies of Alzheimer’s disease. Eventually this will lead to more research and reach a broader population of patients. A staunch advocate of collaboration, Dr. Foley readily credits the skills, expertise and devotion of countless partners, co-workers, and leaders for his own impactful achievements.

DR. RONALD GRIFKA Child Advocate, Healthcare Visionary, Runner

G

rowing up with a brother with Down syndrome inspired Ron Grifka to become a physician. At the time, he wished doctors would have done more for his family. Now, as Chief Medical Officer at University of Michigan Health-West hospital, he inspires colleagues to strive for constant improvement by asking, “How can we get a little bit better today?” Despite challenges with COVID, Ron will tell you the last two years have offered rewarding opportunities to improve health care in West Michigan. He helped develop more than 20 new medical and surgical programs and helped establish a Comprehensive Stroke Center, improving care for stroke patients through a concerted cross-disciplinary approach. Overseeing Patient Quality and Safety, he saw Metro Hospital’s quality score improve from grade C to A, the only hospital in Grand Rapids with this achievement! Despite work demands, Dr. Grifka continues to exercise 5-6 days a week, running 6 miles and participating in 5K and 10K runs. Also, he feels honored to serve on the boards of Kids’ Food Basket and the Children’s Healing Center. As a still-practicing pediatric cardiologist, Ron says the recognitions that matter most to him are written by hand and decorated in crayon by his patients.

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Congratulations to Marlin Feyen and this year’s 16 Over 60 honorees!

Congratulations, Dr. Fahner Thanks for your work in making the impossible possible.

We are grateful for your leadership in pediatric cancer and hematology. Your passion in the fight for every child’s future inspires us all.

Congratulations for being honored in the 16 over 60!

James Fahner, MD, Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Spectrum Health

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Improve health, inspire hope and save lives.™

HONOREES OLIVER HALE Chef, Healthy Lifestyle Speaker, Organ Transplant Ambassador

A

two-time kidney transplant survivor, Chef Oliver has served tirelessly as Ambassador for the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). He frequently speaks at events to share his story about living with a transplant and organ donation, both through UNOS and Gift of Life Michigan. As a retired Award-Winning Healthy Lifestyle Chef, he also demonstrates healthy cooking for a variety of local audiences and co-hosts a YouTube cooking show called The Kidney Cookery, for people with kidney disease. Chef O is a board member emeritus for Meals on Wheels Western Michigan and is on the board of Revive and Thrive, an organization that feeds cancer patients. Before Covid, he regularly planned and prepared summer meals for his church SERVE group for more than 120 people. Since turning 60, he has received awards for his services including the Grand Rapids Legacy Award. In his free time, he competes in cooking competitions, and plays tennis and pickleball. Chef Oliver is enthusiastic about volunteering time to help those who can’t help themselves. Organ donors saved his life. He hopes when people see how a transplant survivor like him has dedicated himself to helping others, they’ll be more motivated to donate their organs too.

ALICE JOHNSON Devoted Neighbor, Foster Parent, Veteran Advocate

A

lice is always busy taking care of people, helping the homeless, feeding the needy, advocating for vaccination, and babysitting for young mothers who need someone trusting to look out for their children. She retired from the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans after serving 35 years. Although it was her career, she always saw it as a service: an opportunity and a privilege to give back to those who had once served so selflessly for her. During that time, she also cared for nearly 50 foster children in her home, coming to her through Catholic Charities. In time, she even adopted six of those kids to raise as her own, along with her three biological children, focusing on building their confidence and establishing wholesome values.

More recently, Alice has shifted her attention and involvement to helping those trapped and impacted by sex trafficking, working closely with Wedgwood Christian Services’ Specialized Residential Treatment Program. Through this volunteer work, she helps victims of sex trafficking build self-esteem, understand issues of personal safety, develop goals and gain hope for their future.

Though Alice has dedicated her life to offering comfort and building hope and empowerment, she humbly says, “I’m just working to do my part.”

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HONOREES HAROLD MAST Community Leader, Senior Advocate, Active Veteran

S

erving others has been a key tenant for Harold Mast throughout his life. For 32 years he served in elected positions as a City and County Commissioner, with a special interest in human services and improving lives in his community. A staunch advocate for seniors and veterans, he helped pass a County millage for both groups. Upon retiring from Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, at age 60 he became Executive Director of Genesis Non-profit Housing Corporation. There, he was instrumental in developing the first Affordable Assisted Living facility in Michigan for Medicaid eligible seniors. In addition, he was able to successfully develop another 150 apartments for persons with disabilities. Hoping to build on this success, he is now involved with efforts to develop a similar AAL facility in the Franklin/Hall neighborhood. Harold’s ongoing service also includes working on the board of Meals on Wheels of West Michigan, chairing the Legislative Subcommittee for the Area Agency on Aging of West Michigan, chairing the Michigan Senior Advocates Council, and serving as chair at Network 180. In addition, Harold serves his fellow veterans as 1st Vice Commander of the United Veterans Council of West Michigan and remains very active in his church.

PAULINE MEYER Gatherer of Goods, Helper of the Homeless, Veterans Volunteer

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o many, Pauline is a true inspiration. Though 70, she works wholeheartedly as if she were a youngster, advocating for and helping meet the needs of those lacking food or other necessities. Her passion for serving veterans and the poor is never-ending and her impact is felt throughout the community.

She serves as a homeless veterans volunteer for Community Rebuilders, at West Michigan Veteran’s Association Food Pantry, at Saint Mark’s breakfast for the homeless, at Mathew’s House, at Shepard’s of Independence and many more! Her work through American Legion Post 459 is another constant in her life, leading to many other ways she gives back. There, she raises money for children through bake sales, shops for and wraps Christmas gifts for those who cannot afford them, and volunteers at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. Pauline is willing to do whatever she can for veterans and the homeless, sometimes that means mailing out 300 Christmas cards for veterans overseas and other times it is picking up donated items to deliver to veterans in need. Contributing to the well-being of others in the community is very much a way of life for Pauline and she wouldn’t have it any other way!

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Congratulations TO THIS YEAR’S 16 OVER 16 HONOREES AND SENIOR NEIGHBORS FOR THEIR INSPIRED SERVICE TO OLDER ADULTS IN WEST MICHIGAN.

SERVING WESTERN MICHIG A N SINCE 1988

SUBSCRIBE: MIBIZ.COM/SUBSCRIBE ADVERTISE: MIBIZ.COM/ADVERTISE EDITORIAL: EDITOR@MIBIZ.COM

SENIOR NEIGHBORS 16 OVER 60 AWARDS-2021 n

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HONOREES SR. M. ROSITA SCHILLER Educator, Dietitian, Grant Writer

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t 16, Sister Rosita joined the Sisters of Mercy, an order of Catholic nuns dedicated to service. Pursuing a career in dietetics and education, she eventually spent 25 years at Ohio State University as Professor and Director of Medical Dietetics, authoring or co-authoring more than 60 articles and books!

Now, at 85, she has no intention of retiring anytime soon! In the third “phase” of her career, she is a grants specialist with Saint Mary’s Foundation of Mercy Health, helping raise millions of dollars to support vulnerable patients. She served on the hospital’s board of trustees, chaired its Quality Committee, and currently is a member of its Community Health and Well-Being committee. A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, she sits on the Trinity Health Nutrition Advisory Council, helping develop standards for nutrition services at 92 hospitals nationwide.

She also promotes literacy in young children through Mercy’s Reach Out and Read program, serves on the board of the Ohio State Alumni Club of West Michigan and is a regular reader for Sunday Televised Mass at the Cathedral of Saint Andrew. For Sr. Rosita, her years of service have been joyful. She is grateful for God’s blessings of good health, energy, and motivation to continue productive engagement.

ANTHONY SPALLONE Veterans Health Advocate, Helping Hand, Staunch Ally

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or decades, Tony has fought to make life better for veterans, as well as the nurses and caregivers supporting them.

In his late 50’s, when he was diagnosed with Agent Orange exposure from his service in Vietnam, he moved to the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. Most of the vets Tony fights for are older and disabled. He gives them hope and encouragement and even shops for them! Despite major health issues, he frequently travels to Lansing to testify at the Capitol, advocating for policy changes and for the construction of the new Veterans’ Home. The pandemic hit the Veterans’ Home particularly hard, claiming the lives of 19 of Tony’s fellow vets. During the height of it, Tony took on the battle of his life; fighting for adequate protective gear, treatments, vaccinations, and policies. He also made it his job to save the jobs of the caregivers, arguing veterans deserve to have quality care as their basic right. His advocacy was instrumental in mandating that everyone within the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans must be vaccinated. Tony says, “In the military, I was taught to Never leave one man or woman back. So that is what I do!”

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Thank you to our 2021 Sponsors GOLD *

SILVER *

*

2021 EVENT COMMITTEE

Operated by Mission Point Healthcare Services

*

Feyen Zylstra Fusion IT * Hospice of Michigan Meijer * Mercy Health Saint Mary’s Mercantile Bank of Michigan Peter C. & Emajean Cook Foundation * Priority Health *

Sisters of Mercy Spectrum Health UMRC & Porter Hills * University of Michigan Health-West * Varnum LLP * Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

FRIENDS Philip and April Alt *

Integrity Business Solutions LLC *

BDO USA, LLP *

Win and Kyle Irwin

Blue Cross Blue Shield

Kennari Consulting

Robert and Luanne Barnes

The Laurels of Hudsonville *

Beacon Hill at Eastgate

Life EMS Ambulance

Clark Retirement Community *

Maner Costerisan

CPA for Seniors of Rivertown Finance

Messiah Baptist Church

Crossroads Eldercare Options

Larry and Sally Robson *

Grand Rapids Community Foundation

Lori and Kevin Smith *

Barbara Hohman Guiding Light Hylant *

Event Co-Chair

Julie Metsker

BRONZE

Grand Rapids Public Museum

Roxanne Dudicz

Plante Moran PLLC *

Event Co-Chair

JoAnn Abraham Syd Baxter Carole Chisholm Tara DeWitt Elizabeth Eardley Cheryl Edwards-Cannon Margaret Howard Beth Mans Natalie McGorty Carla Moore Shanna Reynolds Barry Van Dyck Doug Vance

Katherine and Justin Steffy * Unity of Grand Rapids Doug and Kathy Vance The Village of Heather Hills

* 2021 Community Partner in Philanthropy

Photography Provided By:

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678 Front Ave NW #205 Grand Rapids, MI 49504