OCES Celebrates 50-Year Milestone and Program Growth

OCES presented “Excellence in Care” awards to individuals and organizations whose actions and/or leadership exemplified Care. The two individual awardees were Leah Guercio, a resident of Hanson, who created Leah’s Club for people with dementia-related illnesses to participate in programs focused on attendees’ abilities so they can be involved and feel productive; and Jim Forand of Carver, who pedaled his bicycle alone across the country to raise more than $18,000 for Veterans’ services. The organizational awardee was My Brother’s Keeper based in Easton and Dartmouth. Erich Miller and Paul Key accepted the award for this organization that has helped many thousands of people with food, furniture, and the assurance that they would be cared for in times of need.

OCES presented “Excellence in Collaboration” awards to those whose actions and/or leadership exemplified Collaboration. Two individuals received OCES’ Award: David Tourtillott of Scituate, a Certified Reverse Mortgage Professional who offers workshops to provide older adults with options on whether or not to stay in their homes; and Kathy Hayes of Bridgewater, an Outreach Coordinator and Facilitator of caregiver support groups. The organizational recipient was Alley Kat Lane located in Kingston. Maryjane Danahy accepted the award on behalf of this inclusive organization that supports the independence and dignity of older adults and is a place where individuals with special needs can participate in an activity that encourages teamwork and promotes healthy, safe living.

OCES’ 50^th Anniversary Luncheon highlighted the organization’s campaign to raise $50,000 to expand its Behavioral Health and Wellness programs. OCES’ Elder Mental Health Outreach Team (EMHOT) provides behavioral health and wellness support to older adults and people with disabilities who may be isolated or encounter barriers that limit access to behavioral health care. To date, $48,000 has been raised and fundraising will continue through June 30, 2024.

“OCES serves thousands of older adults, people living with disabilities, caregivers, and families each year,” said Nicole Long, CEO of OCES. “We’re incredibly grateful to all the individuals and organizations that support OCES, ensuring that we continue our vital mission and create better futures for those we serve and communities at large. Our 50th Anniversary event celebrates a new chapter of growth for OCES, beginning with the expansion of our Behavioral Health and Wellness programs.”

OCES extends its thanks to their generous sponsors: MountainOne; Datalyst, LLC; Nutter; The OCPC Ombudsman Program; Best of Care; Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts; Anodyne; Attentive Home Care, Inc.; Home Health Resources, Inc.; Citrin Cooperman; Brown & Brown of Massachusetts, LLC; ; Law Office of Paula Schlosser; and S&M Transportation.  Stonewell Care, LLC; Rockland Trust; Diman Laundry; iSolved MP; South Coast Laundry, Inc.; Old Colony Planning Council (OCPC) and a special thanks to Craig and Diana DiGiorgi as OCES’ 50^th Matching Anniversary Sponsor.

Founded in 1974, OCES continues to grow and evolve. Currently OCES has 243 full-time and 26 part-time employees, and a 23-member Board of Directors. Their leadership team includes Nicole Long, Chief Executive Officer; Anna Dee, Chief Operating Officer; Alisa DeLage, Chief Programs Officer; Rob Buckel-Gillis, Human Resources Director; and Yolanda America, Finance Director.

There have been many milestones over the years including creation of The Greater Brockton Area Hoarding Resource Network (GBAH) ; establishment of the first Supportive Housing Program in Brockton in 2008 and formalization of an Internship Program with Bridgewater State University – all of which continue today. In 2013, the first annual Elder Abuse Awareness event was held in Brockton. In the years that followed, Healthy Living Workshops, Buried in Treasures Workshops, Caregiver Support, and other programs have been established. OCES opened a second office at 204 South Meadow Road in Plymouth featuring a dedicated Volunteer Center for volunteer recruitment for OCES as well as for other nonprofits, schools, and agencies in Southeastern MA. In 2023, OCES expanded their Behavioral Health services with an Elder Mental Health Outreach Team (EMHOT).

According to CEO Nicole Long, “OCES is at the forefront - providing essential services, creating awareness of critical issues, and serving as an important resource for older adults, people with disabilities, families, caregivers, and the larger community. We are dedicated to, and passionate about, helping others and improving lives.”