PHOENIX, Ariz. (September 10, 2008) – For 27 years, the Area Agency on Aging, Region One, has presented Dr. R. Alice Drought Caring Spirit Awards to individuals and organizations that provide outstanding service to older adults in our community. “We are proud to announce our honorees this year as each one has provided an invaluable service and selfless commitment to our older adult population here in Maricopa County.” says Mary Lynn Kasunic, President & CEO of the Area Agency on Aging.
This year, Guy G. Mikkelsen will be receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award for his hard work as the President & CEO of the Foundation for Senior Living for over 20 years.  Previously, as Director of the State Block Grants Administration for the Arizona Department of Economic Security, Guy directed the development of the Social Service Block Grant Program, Low Income Energy Program, Community Services Block Grant, Federal Commodities, and the Refugee Resettlement Program.
Caring Spirit Awards will also be presented to:
American Red Cross — DOVES Award for many hours of transportation services and support for the DOVES program. 
William Harper — Outstanding Volunteer Award for over 50 years of volunteer work.
T.J. Houle — Outstanding Volunteer Award for extensive volunteer work with Hospice of the Valley.
Jerry Lamar — Individual Achievement Award for his strong advocacy for the elderly and people with developmental disabilites.  
Sun City Fire Department, Fire Prevention Bureau — Community Award of Excellence for providing over 500 hours per month volunteering so that homes and businesses in Sun City are free of hazards that pose a danger to seniors in the community.
Dr. John Post — HIV Service Award for over 10 years of commitment as the Medical Director of the HIV Specialty Clinic here in Maricopa County. 
Honorees will be recognized at the Area Agency’s annual awards luncheon, set for Friday, Oct. 3 at the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort.  The Award ceremony this year will also feature the first recipient of the Ruth H. Houghton Scholarship fund.  This scholarship is designed for a MSW student attending Arizona State University that is committed to practicing in adult and aging services or with special populations upon graduation. 
For more information about the Caring Spirit Awards or to purchase tickets for the event, call the Area Agency on Aging at (602) 264-2255. The Area Agency on Aging, Region One plans, develops, and delivers services to seniors (60 years and older) and adults (18-59 years) with disabilities and long-term care needs. For more information on opportunities to volunteer or other services available to seniors, call the Area Agency’s 24-hour Senior HELP LINE at (602) 264-HELP.
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