Phil Leathery and Janet Kreiker Win 2022 Older American's Month Awards
Two Larimer County residents were recognized on May 12 at the Older American’s Month award ceremony for their volunteerism, positive attitude, and impact for older adults.
The two awards, Outstanding Senior Volunteer and Outstanding Family Caregiver, were awarded by the Larimer County Office on Aging. The annual awards are a way to show appreciation for older adults and caregivers in our community as part of Older Americans Month, which is celebrated each year in May.
The 2022 Outstanding Senior Volunteer Award was presented to Phil Leathery. After a career in law enforcement and years of serving as a volunteer softball coach, Phil retired. But instead of relaxing and taking time off, he volunteered as a tour guide on the Fort Collins Trolley Birney car. When he received a diagnosis of dementia, he was determined to continue living well and giving back to his community. Phil has served on the Dementia Together Advisory Committee, presented dementia training to law enforcement employees, and hosted activities for other men living with dementia. During COVID, he started an outdoor walking club for other seniors living with dementia and their care partners.
The 2022 Outstanding Family Caregiver Award was presented to Janet Kreiker. Janet is the loving caregiver of her husband of 20 years, Phil, who has dementia. She has a bubbly personality and optimistic attitude that makes everyone around her feel better. Her number one priority is Phil- she consistently works to make his life better and will do whatever is required to get Phil the help he needs. She reflects honor in caring for her husband and always seeks to improve her caregiving skills. Janet even facilitates a virtual caregivers support group once a month, primarily to seek and share advice with others. She is admired for her willingness to help others, her drive to continue to learn how to best care for a loved one with dementia, and, mostly, help her beloved husband live his best life.
