2014 Governor's Engaging Aging Award

Izatt has served to significantly help develop the Area Agency's Celebrity Chefs Brunch, which is the primary fundraiser event for its Holiday Meals on Wheels program. In addition to being an event donor and sponsor, she has served as committee chair since 2008. By engaging her community in fundraising efforts and identifying new donors, patrons, restaurants and chefs, Izatt has made an incredible difference to provide meals to at-risk seniors.

A registered nurse since 1970, she teaches nursing students of the challenges and evidence-based practices needed for care of the older adult. This year she has been involved in revising curriculum for the Geriatric Population class at St. Francis Medical Center College of Nursing to include student involvement in daily activities of older adults in community nursing homes. Dr. Archer is a compassionate nurse, teacher and advocate for seniors.

Munday, a pharmacist who owns and operates St. Joseph Apothecary, was named "Citizen of the Year" for her sense of community. When the ECIAAA administered a grant to coordinate a pilot project to help older adults manage their medications and prevent medication errors, she served as consulting pharmacist and provided training for care coordinators. Munday's work with ECIAAA continues on its Corporate Board.

Kalanik-Costa's dedication to social justice began when she was a teen living in Costa Rica and became involved in political, social, and human rights issues throughout Latin America. After marrying and settling in the U. S., she worked with Amnesty International, N.A.A.C.P., and American Civil Liberties Union. Currently, she works with Latinos communities in Jacksonville and Beardstown. Kalanik-Costa is the people's champion.

Social work for Kreeb started while growing up in Kentucky and working with impoverished people in the Appalachian Mountains. He joined Neighborhood House in the 1980s when East St. Louis was going through a tremendous change. Population dropped but the number of people living in poverty grew. Under Kreeb's leadership, Neighborhood House services include day care, adult day services, emergency services, and social work.

Patrick worked as the Shawnee Human Resources Director from 1985 to 2005 and assisted as the health service grew from a handful of employees to more than 200 when she retired. Previously an employee, she now volunteers providing support to help vulnerable people remain active and independent. Patrick's service through Volunteer Money Management and Shining Star programs exemplifies helping our fellow man.

Siegel is the immediate past chair of AgeOptions' Board of Directors. She led the board in 2012 and 2013 and served as the vice chair before that. Her wealth of knowledge in the field of aging has developed throughout her career. She was Associate Director of the Area Agency on Aging in Palm Beach (FL) before moving, in 2001 to Chicago Ridge where she served as first lady during time her husband was mayor. Siegel currently holds a research assistant position in the Department of Health Services at the University of Maryland.