Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities names Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro as the recipient of 2020 lifetime achievement award
The Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities Harvey L. Sterns
Lifetime Achievement Award is given for extraordinary achievement in improving the lives
of older adults in our region.
Gary Cook, President and CEO of Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities, announced today that Ilene Shapiro, Summit County Executive, has been chosen as the recipient of the 2020 Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities Harvey L. Sterns Lifetime Achievement Award. Mr. Cook noted Executive Shapiro’s prioritization of the Age Friendly Summit County initiative, as well as several additional programs, that prompted this recognition.
“2020 has been a year of challenge for older adults due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr. Cook stated, “Under Executive Shapiro’s leadership, Summit County has provided significant programs and opportunities that benefit older adults during this unprecedented time of need.” Among the noted programs is an initiative to provide technology and internet access to older adults isolated due to the pandemic, free COVID-19 testing days, distribution of CARES Act funding to local non-profits for services, partnering to provide personal protective equipment and wellness kits, and providing mortgage, rent, and utility assistance to those in need. These projects and Executive Shapiro’s personal involvement with them demonstrate the commitment of Summit County to cultivate a safe and supportive environment for older adults.
Thanks to Executive Shapiro’s leadership, the Summit County Age Friendly Advisory Council has been formed to implement the five-year process that will ensure Summit County is a livable community for all ages. Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities is proud to recognize her work in support of older adults and individuals with disabilities in Summit County and Ohio at large.
A virtual Hall of Fame and Awards Ceremony to recognize those in our region who demonstrate the best in care for older adults and individuals with disabilities will be held on December 11, 2020. Details for the event will be released shortly.
Visit www.dhad.org or call 877-770-5558 for information on resources in Portage, Stark, Summit and Wayne counties to assist older adults, individuals with disabilities, and those that care for them.