Mrs Pask, who took over as head of the organisation eight months ago, after many years of working in the education sector, said she had learned a lot about the extraordinary breadth of Age Concern’s work in the Dunedin and Otago communities.
"I’m passionate about how we can serve our community and make things better for people, and Age Concern works hard to do that for older people across Otago."
The extraordinary work of the organisation in supporting older people in the region since 1948 will be celebrated with a programme of events, activities and free daily community lunches with entertainment, from Monday to Friday.
The celebrations will culminate in a 75th anniversary soiree on Friday evening at the Octagon Clubrooms.
"We have a wonderful week of events lined up, which everyone is invited to come along and enjoy, as we celebrate the amazing history of the organisation."
After working with children for her whole career, she was impressed by the breadth and importance of the organisation’s work with older people.
It had two main pillars to its work — its social work and support services, and its education programmes.
"We share knowledge and support to help people live well.
"And what underpins all of our work is the importance of social connection — isolation and loneliness are huge issues for older people."
The number of people who benefited from the work of Age Concern Otago through its services and groups showed its importance to the community.
Last year it had more than 1200 active members and 900 volunteers, organised the delivery of 21,000 Meals on Wheels, supported 192 people through its visiting service, and had 1241 people take part in falls prevention classes.
It also received 337 social work referrals and worked with 123 people through its Elder Abuse Response Service.
"This is just some of the work we do, and there is a lot more to come.
"Our board is currently working on a strategic plan to take the organisation forward."
- For more information on the 75th anniversary celebrations, see page 9 of today’s issue of The Star.
