Aging in Our Community
A Message from Our President & CEO, Robert Ojeda, Ph.D. I t is with great excitement and gratitude that I step into the role of CEO at Pima Council on Aging (PCOA). For more than 50 years, PCOA has been a cornerstone in supporting older adults and their families throughout Southern Arizona, and I am honored to join an organization with such a remarkable legacy of service and innovation. What drew me to PCOA? The opportunity to lead PCOA is deeply meaningful to me, both professionally and personally. Having spent decades working in Southern Arizona’s nonprofit sector, I’ve seen firsthand how essential PCOA’s work is to individuals, families, and communities. I’ve admired the organization’s ability to adapt to the changing needs of older adults while maintaining an unwavering commitment to its mission. PCOA’s programs and services address critical areas of life for older adults—from promoting health and independence to offering support for caregivers and creating spaces for community connection. It is this holistic approach to aging, paired with a commitment to advocacy and innovation, that drew me to this role. I am eager to contribute to PCOA’s mission and to build on its success in shaping a community where older adults can thrive.
What are my immediate priorities for the organization? In my first six months, I will focus on relationships—building and strengthening connections both internally and externally. This includes meeting with PCOA’s dedicated staff, who bring extraordinary passion to their work, and engaging with the older adults and families we serve. I also look forward to deepening our partnerships with local organizations and supporters who share our vision for a community where aging is celebrated and supported. Listening will be a priority during this time. I want to hear directly from those who make PCOA’s work possible—from our team and volunteers to our clients and community partners. Their insights will help guide my understanding of the organization’s strengths and opportunities for growth as we chart the path forward. At PCOA, we are committed to fostering a community where we can all thrive as we age. This commitment is at the heart of everything we do and will continue to guide our work as we address the evolving needs of Southern Arizona’s aging population. What is my vision for PCOA’s future? Looking ahead, my vision for PCOA is one of collaboration and connections. I want to see a Southern Arizona where older adults are valued not only for the lives they’ve lived but also for the contributions they continue to make to our community. Aging is a journey that
Robert Ojeda, Ph.D.
touches every one of us, and by working together, we can create a culture that honors this shared experience. As I begin this journey, I invite you to join me in imagining what’s possible for PCOA and our community. Together, we can build on the foundation of this extraordinary organization, ensuring that older adults and their families have the support, resources, and opportunities they deserve. Thank you for welcoming me into the PCOA family. I am inspired by the incredible work that has been done and energized by the opportunities
that lie ahead. Warm regards,
Robert Ojeda, Ph.D. President and CEO Pima Council on Aging To read more about Robert and his background, visit RobertOjeda.pcoa.org.
March & April 2025, Never Too Late | Page 3
Pima Council on Aging
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