Porter County Aging and Community Services staff, family and friends recently recognized Josephine Purevich for her years of service to the community.
Purevich’s 27-year career was celebrated at a retirement luncheon at the Hebron Senior Center, where she served as director for about 10 years. She also was named the Hebron Fourth of July parade grand marshal, which was announced by her son-in-law and Hebron Clerk/Treasurer Fred Siminski during the party.
“We are so appreciative of Josephine’s years of dedication,” said Bruce Lindner, PCACS executive director. “Through her various roles over the years, she really made an impact on so many seniors’ lives.”
“Even more than just the senior site, Josephine has contributed so much to our agency,” added Judy Peracki, PCACS deputy director.
Purevich begin her full-time career at the age of 60 working with the agency through the Title V (Senior Community Service Employment) program, before becoming a PCACS employee.
“I started working full-time because my husband (Alex Jr.) was forced to retire after he had open-heart surgery. He told me I would never be able to get a full-time job at 60 years old,” she said. “I said that I bet I will … I proved him wrong.”
Throughout her 27-year career, she had worked with the energy assistance, senior nutrition and former Lifeline programs before settling in at Hebron.
“When Josephine came to my office for the Title V job, I said, ‘You have to be 55 or older.’ She was such a perky lady … I said, ‘You’re not old enough,’” said former PCACS executive director Marion McDougall, who retired in 2005. “She was somebody who learned to do almost everything. She went from one thing to another.”
Over the years, Josephine has enjoyed connecting with the seniors and taking trips with the group.
“I enjoy being with people, mingling and socializing,” she said.
While the Hebron Senior Center is no longer a meal site operated by PCACS, Hebron officials are continuing to open up the community center for seniors to meet and socialize.
PCACS’ mission is to extend a helping hand to seniors, those with disabilities and low-income residents by providing services to improve their quality of life, including transportation, nutrition programs, energy assistance and activity centers.
For more information, visit www.portercountyacs.org.