Mary Wesche is among 10 Missourians who was recognized recently with the 2025 Senior Service Award at a special ceremony hosted by Lt. Governor David Wasinger.
“As Missouri’s official advocate for seniors, it is my honor to recognize those who continue to give back to their communities long after retirement,” Wasinger said in a statement. “These ten individuals represent the very best of Missouri—selfless, hardworking, and dedicated to improving the lives of those around them.”
Mary Wesche, one of those to be recognized, has volunteered for over 10 years at the Washington Senior Center and has also gone through rigorous training to become a longer-term care ombudsman with the 510©(3) nonprofit group VOYCE, and recently started volunteering in the capacity, according to a press release.
Wesche began volunteering with Aging Ahead in 2014 a the Washington Senior Center and quickly began making an impact there, according to Aging Ahead, which noted that Wesche was responsible for a dramatic expansion of the center’s library.
“She served in many ways at the center, welcoming participates at the front desk, teaching craft classes, and was a member of the Support Committee, helping to ensure the center meets the needs of the community,” according to Aging Ahead.
“When she turned 60 and was eligible, she joined Aging Ahead’s Silver Haired Legislature delegation advocating for legislation and policy that responds to the needs of older adults in Missouri. Mary also joined Aging Ahead’s Advisory Council, an important group that advises leadership for the Area Agency on Aging in St. Louis County, St. Charles, Jefferson and Franklin Counties. She also serves on important sub-committees such as Your Voice Matters, helping to obtain thoughts and feedback from older adults in inform programs and policy.”
The Senior Service Award ceremony was on April 14th at the Capitol Rotunda and was open to the public.
emissourian.com, April 13, 2025 By Missourian Staff
Aging Ahead is excited to announce that the 2025 Delivering A Difference Volunteer of the Year is Allen Serfas! Allen has served as a volunteer on the Aging Ahead Foundation Board for nearly 15 years! During that time, Allen has passionately championed all efforts to support Aging Ahead and those we serve. He cares deeply about our centers, programs, and services and the impact they make on so many lives. The donation of his time, talent, and resources combine to make Allen a much-valued volunteer.