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Shawnee Alliance recognized by the state for helping seniors navigate the pandemic

Illinois Department on Aging Director Paula Basta, far right, and members of the Shawnee Alliance and The Egyptian Area Agency on Aging at the recent award ceremony on December 2, 2021.
Illinois Department on Aging Director Paula Basta, far right, and members of the Shawnee Alliance and The Egyptian Area Agency on Aging at the recent award ceremony on December 2, 2021.

The Shawnee Alliance, which helps seniors in an 18-county area in southern Illinois, was recently awarded the Governor's "Engaging Aging" Award for their work on behalf of seniors.

Carol Aronson with the Alliance says she was surprised, but happy for her group.

"It absolutely was quite a surprise and a great honor....an honor to know that I can have the recognition for all the staff and all of the people who helped make this work, for older adults who are frail and homebound."

Illinois Department on Aging Director Paula Basta says the Shawnee Alliance does great work, especially during the recent tough times.

"Amazing, amazing, and as they talked about the whole food insecurity issue was huge, statewide. And I know that for a fact, that they have responded. And, just not even have responded but have gone above and beyond the response."

The Shawnee Alliance was also praised for their continued work in helping seniors get vaccinated against covid-19.

Kevin Boucher is a retired broadcaster. Most recently he was a news reporter for WSIU radio. He grew up watching nature programs including Mutual of Omaha’s wild kingdom and the many Jacques Cousteau specials which sparked his passion with nature. Kevin also is an avid hiker and loves seeing and writing stories about the many fascinating plants and animals we share our planet with. Kevin is married and has lived in Murphysboro since 1976, after living in many places, including Japan, as the son of a Navy officer.


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