Publication of Pima Council on Aging, Helping Pima County Age Well Since 1967
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THIS ISSUE A Legacy of Leadership . . . . . . 1-2 Volunteer Spotlight . . 2 Upcoming Events . . . 3 PCOA Thought Leaders Shine . . . . . 3
A Legacy of Leadership Celebrating W. Mark Clark’s Retirement and the Establishment of the W. Mark Clark Legacy Fund
As the year ends, PCOA prepares to bid farewell to our President and CEO, W. Mark Clark, who is retiring after over a decade of compassionate, visionary leadership. Mark’s influence has profoundly shaped PCOA and the entire Southern Arizona community. Mark’s leadership at PCOA was not just
about management; it was about cultivating a culture of connection, care, and purpose. He emphasized the importance of a strong organizational culture, ensuring every action aligned with our mission to enhance the lives of older adults. One of the defining moments of Mark’s
tenure was PCOA’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. “The pandemic response and our work around vaccine promotion and access were some of the most significant things we’ve done,” Mark reflected. Under his guidance, PCOA became a lifeline for countless older adults, providing critical services during an unprecedented crisis. Mark also led a significant modernization of PCOA, transforming our technological capacity to enhance efficiency and better serve the community in a rapidly changing world. His strategic use of technology expanded access to services, creating a more inclusive environment and enabling us to connect with a broader spectrum of the community. Among Mark’s many achievements, he is especially proud of the establishment of the Community Care Hub of Southwest Community Care Partners. This forward-looking initiative represents a bold step into the future, bringing PCOA President and CEO, W. Mark Clark.
together healthcare and social services in a collaborative effort to better serve the community, reflecting Mark’s visionary approach to ensuring that PCOA remains at the forefront of supporting older adults for years to come. Throughout his time with PCOA, Mark recognized the essential role of our supporters. “The generosity and trust of our donors have allowed us to respond creatively and urgently to community needs,” he often noted, underscoring his belief in the power of collective effort to drive meaningful change. As we reflect on Mark’s legacy, we are reminded of his wisdom and the profound impact he has had on all of us. “We never really know the impacts we make on people’s lives, and that’s why it’s so important to continue our work,” Mark said. His hope to be remembered as “someone who led organizations that made a positive difference” has undoubtedly been realized. In honor of Mark’s retirement, we proudly
We never really know the impacts we make on people’s lives, and that’s why it’s so important to continue our work.
– W. Mark Clark
announce the W. Mark Clark Legacy Fund. This fund will strengthen and expand PCOA’s advocacy and policy efforts, ensuring that Mark’s vision continues to guide us. By contributing to this fund, donors will play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for older adults and amplifying their voices in the policy-making process. As we say goodbye to Mark, we celebrate his incredible contributions to PCOA and the broader community. His dedication, compassion, and vision have shaped PCOA and touched many lives in Southern Arizona. “It’s just a tremendous honor to represent PCOA,” Mark shared, and we have been deeply honored to have him as our leader. Mark, you have not only led PCOA—you have inspired us all to carry forward your vision of a just, caring, and supportive community for older adults. As we embark on this next chapter, we do so with deep gratitude for your leadership and a commitment to honoring your legacy in all that we do.
It’s just a tremendous honor to be able to go out into the community and represent PCOA. – W. Mark Clark A memorable day advocating for aging services on Capitol Hill with passionate leaders making a difference.
Volunteer Spotlight Vikki Spritz has been an essential member of our Medicare volunteer team, transitioning from volunteer to staff in 2014 and back to volunteering. Her dynamic presentations make Medicare engaging and understandable for countless clients. A natural teacher, Vikki shares complex information with clarity and passion, inspiring others to join our volunteer team through her enthusiasm. Vikki is more than just a volunteer; she’s a powerhouse during Medicare’s Open Enrollment period, always eager to take on extra presentations and client appointments. Despite her extroverted nature, Vikki prefers to stay out of the spotlight, focusing instead on the work she loves. But her contributions deserve recognition. Her civic-mindedness and dedication are truly humbling, and we’re grateful for the impact she continues to make in our community. Volunteering is not just what Vikki does—it’s who she is, and we’re better for it.
Vikki Spritz, bringing Medicare to life with passion and dedication, inspiring both clients and volunteers.
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Upcoming Events and Opportunities Introducing Nosh & Know: PCOA’s New Learning Series We’re excited to unveil Nosh & Know, a new event series designed to nourish both mind and body. Each session will delve into essential topics for aging well, paired with a light “nosh” to enjoy while you learn. Our first event, Nosh & Know–Falls Prevention, will cover key tips to help prevent falls and maintain independence. You’ll hear from an expert on practical strategies, with an interactive Q&A to answer your questions. Join us for an afternoon of knowledge, conversation, and community—where learning how to stay safe and independent comes with a side of good company. PCOA Thought Leaders Shine at USAging Conference PCOA proudly showcased its leadership at the USAging Answers on Aging Annual Conference in Tampa, FL, from July 8-11 th . Our team’s participation as presenters highlighted PCOA’s commitment to pioneering aging services.
NOSH& KNOW FALLS PREVENTION Thursday, September 19 1:30pm – 2:30pm Katie Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center 600 S. Country Club Road TEP Room For information, please call
(520) 305-3410 $ 5 per person
REGISTER TODAY at https://bit.ly/NoshandKnow
PCOA’s participation at the USAging Conference exemplifies our dedication to advancing aging services not only within Pima County but across the nation.
Deb Seng and Lisa Reams presented on PCOA’s Neighbors Care Alliance, a program reducing social isolation and enhancing access to transportation and in-home assistance for older adults. They provided a model for other agencies to replicate this success. Elizabeth Reeves co-presented with partners from Maricopa County on the Friends & Neighbors program, which empowers older adults to select their caregivers. Their session explored the benefits and challenges of this innovative approach. Harbhajan Khalsa, alongside Liz Cozzi from United Way, discussed the success of Memory Cafés under the Dementia Capable Southern Arizona initiative. These cafés have become vital community hubs, expanding services to underserved populations. Yadira Mosqueira shared strategies for building a sustainable workforce to meet the growing needs of older adults while W. Mark Clark participated in a panel discussing the role of Area Agencies on Aging in aligning health and social care. The participation of our team at the USAging Conference exemplifies PCOA’s dedication to advancing aging services not only within Pima County but across the nation. We are deeply grateful for your support, which makes our continued leadership and innovation in this field possible. A full house at the USAging Answers on Aging Conference, where PCOA staff shared their expertise on innovative aging services.
Lisa Reams representing PCOA as a thought leader at the USAging Conference, where she presented on the impactful Neighbors Care Alliance.
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Nonprofit Org US Postage PAID Tucson, AZ Permit #1456
8467 E. Broadway Blvd. Tucson, AZ 85710-4009
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Your Philanthropy Team is Here for You! Please feel free to contact us – we’d love to hear from you! Sarah Spearman
Legacy Giving For many of us, as we age we consider how to leave a lasting legacy for our community. By leaving Pima Council on Aging in your will, you can provide critical assistance for older adults in need. Please visit legacygiving.pcoa.org to find out more!
Jan Slonaker Communication and Design Specialist jslonaker@pcoa.org Halley Torres Grants, Contracts and Projects Specialist htorres@pcoa.org
VP, Philanthropy & Communications 520.790.7573 ext 5043 sspearman@pcoa.org Sara Mathis Development Director 520.790.7573 ext 5042 smathis@pcoa.org
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