Four JFS volunteers have been recognized for their dedicated efforts through the 70 Over 70 Awards put on by KC Shepherd’s Center. John Ball, Cathy Boyer-Shesol, Katherine Keller and Barbara Palan were recognized through virtual awards celebration.
According to the center’s website, “The 70 Over 70 Awards honor those who have made significant contributions and achievements in their respective endeavors.” The list includes people from all walks of life in community leaders, business owners, volunteers, entrepreneurs, arts enthusiasts and cultural leaders.
John Ball has been volunteering with JFS since he retired in 2014. A Jet Express driver, Ball has taken numerous older adults who no longer drive to doctors’ appointments and other places giving them a sense of Independence. A military veteran, Ball also volunteers at the Jewish Community Center and other community organizations.
Cathy Boyer-Shesol has spent much of her career working to help others. Currently a project manager for the KC Communities for All Ages program through the Mid-America Regional Council, Boyer-Shesol gave volunteer time as a JET Express driver. Among the other organizations, Boyer-Shesol has shared her many talents with include the Jewish Heritage Foundation, Congregation Beth Torah and Jackson County CASA.
Katherine Keller has given time to JFS as both a food pantry and spiritual care volunteer. In which she visits with older adults helping keep them connected. Originally from Iowa, Kansas City is now Keller’s home. She also volunteers weekly at The Temple Congregation B’nai Jehudah, and volunteers weekly at a first-grade classroom at Pawnee Elementary School, where her daughter is a teacher.
Barbara Palan has headed up JFS’ Volunteer Attorney Project since 2012. From food pantry to care management to its aging in place home maintenance program, JFS serves individuals from all walks of life across the lifespan. JFS’ Volunteer Attorney Project helps JFS provide time-sensitive, person-centered legal consultation to its clients. Palan also volunteered as a CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocate), an experience that led her to become a lawyer later in life.
“KC Shepherd’s Center, like JFS, seeks to help older adults age in place with dignity and grace. JFS and KCSC both focus on older adults living in the community and have services that both support and empower seniors,” said Rachel Ohlhausen, JFS director of program operations. “Our Kansas City Community is better because of the many wonderful residents, 70 and better.”
JFS offers multiple volunteer opportunities; for details please visit the website at www.jfskc.org. If you would like to become a JFS volunteer, please email .
Click here for the full list of 2021 70 Over 70 honorees.