Aging Ahead is fortunate to have a network of employees so dedicated to our mission of supporting individuals through the journey of aging, that some of them just stay…for 35 years. Cindy Hunt, our DeSoto Senior Center Administrator (SCA), and Margi Valleroy, our Community Options and Services Manager, have both been growing and evolving with the Agency for the past 35 years! Now, that’s something to brag about!
Cindy began volunteering with the senior center in DeSoto and fell in love with the opportunity to connect with the older adult patrons. She applied for a job, and never looked back. Cindy began her career as an assistant cook, preparing nutritious meals to congregate and home-delivered clients. Approximately 12 years ago, she became a Senior Center Administrator, “I like just about everything about my job. Supporting seniors is what I was meant to do, so I keep going. They call me family, and that feels so good. At the end of the day, that’s what matters.” Cindy discussed life lessons learned from working with Aging Ahead, “I learned that stepping out of my box and being comfortable with being uncomfortable can be very rewarding in the end. I’m always learning new things—even now and having a good attitude about change keeps me going.”
Margi began her journey with us as an Information and Referral Specialist and has remained in the same department which is now known as the Community Options and Services department. “Working with older adults has always been my heart’s desire. Being a part of the Agency and supporting the mission continues to be the perfect fit.” When asked to impart a word of advice for newer employees, Margi stated, “Remember that the Agency is one big team. When one person or department shines, we all shine!” She continued by saying, “Although I could be doing similar work elsewhere, the reason that I’ve been here so long are the relationships. I’ve gone through so many major life changes: marriage, kids, caregiving, losses, and celebrations. I’ve felt supported through all of them. And the mentors—several amazing women have taught me so much over the years. Working to honor them and in a couple of cases, their memories, has kept me around.”
Aging Ahead would like to thank Cindy and Margi for their unwavering dedication to older adults and the Agency. Their big hearts, creativity, hard work, and positive attitudes have helped shape Aging Ahead into the organization it is today. Thank you!