Homepage
-- Programs and Services -- Contact Information Local
Shine Counselor wins state award
From The Director
From the Mayor
Growing Older:
Berkshire role models
Elder
Services produces Cable TV programs aimed at older adult issues
Ask Elder Services
New Staff
The
Gallagher Alzheimer’s Resource Center: a Place Where Caregivers Can Access
Information
Local Shine Counselor wins state award
Maralyn Brown, volunteer SHINE counselor at Elder Services of Berkshire County, is one of eight recipients throughout Massachusetts selected to receive the Governor’s Award for Outstanding Health Benefits Counseling.
The award was presented to Brown by Fran Bedini, Chairperson of the Florida Council on Aging, at a holiday lunch on December 6th.
The Governor’s award for Outstanding Health Benefits Counseling is presented annually to eight volunteer counselors in the Massachusetts SHINE Program who, in the opinion of the judges, represent the highest level of volunteer service and commitment to providing elders with accessible and helpful information pertinent to their own health care needs.
Brown was described by Bedini as "non-judgmental, professional, friendly and able to honor confidentiality." She independently investigates pharmaceutical issues, has assisted in her own as well as neighboring communities, and has presented seminars for seniors regarding health insurance information.
SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) is a statewide program that provides free health care information, assistance and counseling to Medicare beneficiaries and their care givers. Volunteers complete an intensive 36-hour training which includes how to provide objective, unbiased information and assistance regarding Medicare, supplemental insurance programs, prescription discount and assistance programs and public benefits. Counselors visit with elders at home, at local senior centers, or by telephone.
For additional information concerning the SHINE Program, contact Nancy Stoll at 413-499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242.