The Orleans Council on Aging (COA) functions as a human service organization to enhance the quality of life for all residents of Orleans, Mass. who are at least 60 years old. The COA provides assistance, information on available resources, health services, referrals to community agencies, programs and recreational activities for senior citizens. Particular emphasis promoting healthy aging and full participation by all is made.
Senior Center Building
The original Orleans Senior Center of 2,500 square feet was built in 1982, an addition of 500 square feet was added in 1997 and an extensive addition renovation project added 3,000 square feet in 2000 creating a state of the art 8,000 square foot Center. Two unique rooms were included in the project, the Sun Room just off the reception area and space for The Day Center program.
SUE BEYLE
Sue has been an Outreach Worker since July, 2000. In her 30 hour work week, she meets with seniors in their home as well as at the office. Trouble shooting is her speciality - call her with a problem and she'll find a solution.
BOB BISHOP
Bob was the first Van Driver hired for the Orleans Senior Center when they acquired a van in January, 1999. He has been a loyal, dependable driver and enjoys getting people where they need to be on time.
SHARON CHATHAM
The Day Center benefited when Sharon was hired to join their staff. Trained formally as an elementary school teacher, Sharon loves working with seniors and "would have switched careers sooner", had she known.
SHARON COLLINS
New to the Front Desk in 2007, Sharon greets visitors to the OCOA in person and on the telephone. Scheduled to work each morning as the Principal Clerk, additional clerical tasks, include scheduling the van.
GERRY CSAPOSS
Gerry's career experience with hearing impaired students makes his work with seniors a good match. His compassion and enjoyment of the participants is evident.
SUSAN CURCIO
Sue brings years of experience as a Program Director having worked at other Supportive Day programs for seniors in the area. She coordinates various special programs for the participants making it an interesting and new opportunity for them.
DONNA FAIVRE
Hired as a Principal Clerk in March, 2004, Donna was promoted to Office Manager of the Orleans COA in May, 2007.
BRENDA FERNANDEZ
Brenda's 19 hour Principal Clerk position started in July, 2006. She quickly learned ServTracker, the computer program used to collect the Orleans Senior Center's data, and provides comprehensive reports.
BUD HALE
With his southern Texas accent, Bud brings a smile to everyone he meets. As a van driver, he is reassuring to riders who are van dependent and as The Orleans MA Day Center assistant, he was always patient and calm with the clients.
BILL HANNON
Bill started as a substitute van driver in 2003 but added custodial duties to his schedule in 2006. Quick with a smile and a joke, Bill keeps the ROADRUNNER van riders happy.
MARY ELLEN LAVENBERG
Mary Ellen started her position as full time Outreach Worker with senior citizens in July, 2007. She has a professional and personal style that bring clients information and services.
JOSEPH "JOE" MANSON
Joe agreed to work with the men on Tuesdays and expanded his schedule to include Thursdays. He plans discussions that are typical "guy talk" for the men who are more difficult to "recruit" and they enjoy the program immensely.
JOSEPH "JOE" O'NEIL
Joe has driven the ROADRUNNER van regularly for the Center since 2001. He manages a full schedule with a sense of humor and pleasant attitude.
JOYCE O'NEIL
Joyce is well known on the Lower Cape for her various positions as Activity Director in assisted living and nursing home facilities. She brings a love of elders and her musical talent to The Day Center Program.
ERIC ROTH
Eric Roth has been the Orleans Senior Center's "resident" chef since 2005. He makes fabulous meals on a shoe string budget.
MARY "EMMY" SCHENKE
Emmy loves assisting in The Day Center program on Mondays. She brings many years of experience from nursing home settings.
ELIZABETH "LIZ" SMITH
Hired as the Executive Director in 1992, Liz has seen many changes at the Center, including the completed renovation/expansion building project completed in May, 2000. The Orleans MA Center's staff has grown over the years, to meet the needs in the Community. Support from State and Community grants as well as program fees helps maintain the Town's required level funded budget.
SUSAN WANGERMAN
Susan has worked as a Fitness Instructor at the Center for many years. However, her formal training is in counseling and in 2005 she was hired as the Center's Wellness Facilitator. She meets with individuals as well as groups.
SCOTT WOOD
Scott has been providing dependable custodial services to the Senior Center every evening since 2001.
Board of Directors
| Name |
Term Expires |
| Joseph DiBrigida, Chair |
2010 |
| Margaret Sheehan, Secretary |
2010 |
| Frank Suits, Member at Large |
2008 |
| Philip Halkenhauser, Member at Large |
2010 |
| Madeline Short, Member at Large |
2008 |
| Robert Brothers, Member at Large 2009 |
2009 |
| Dennis GiaQuinto, Member at Large |
2009 |
| Mark Carron, Selectmen’s Liaison |
2008 |
| Cindy Suonpera, FinCom Liaison |
2008 |
| Myra Suchenicz, Assistant Town Admin |
2008 |
Friends Board:
George Dunn
Priscilla Ellis
Henry Fales
Jean Hammond
Donna Kelley
Susan Owens
Connie Schram
Mary Welch
Ginney Wiley
Programs