The Wisconsin Association of Senior Centers recently held their annual conference in Stevens Point with over 80 directors in attendance. Also present was Bob Kellerman, Executive Director of the Greater Wisconsin Area Aging Resources, who awarded Jane A. Deau, Director of the Merrill Area Community Enrichment Center, with the Lifetime Achievement Award for her years of service to the older adults in the State of Wisconsin.
Kellerman commented, “I’ve known Jane since 1979 when she was the Activity Director at Pine Crest Nursing Home. She has the same passion for those she cares for today as she had back then.”
The Wisconsin Association of Senior Centers also recognized her for her years of service to the state association, having been on the board of directors for 20 years and holding the President’s position in 1993-1995 and 2011-2013.
Through the years, Deau has been known for creating new programs, grant writing and the willingness to help others. The Merrill Area Community Enrichment Center was first in the state to offer a “Social Respite Program,” changing their name from being a Senior Center to an Enrichment Center and also known for being the center who gives more back to the community through the use of volunteers and special projects than any other in the state.
When asked, “Don’t you get tired of what you do?” Deau responded, “This isn’t a job, it’s an opportunity to help others and give back! I have been blessed to have grown in the field of aging, I am proud to say that at the end of the day I made someone’s life a little better. Not everyone can say that!”