2008's CCHOAA WINNER

2008's winner was Norma Lemberg. For nearly 50 years, Norma has dedicated her many professional and volunteer activities to Florida’s seniors.

As an MSW in the then State of Florida Welfare Department and later in the Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitation Services (the predecessor agency to the Department of Elder Affairs),  this awardee saw first hand the implementation of the Older Americans Act in Dade, Monroe and Broward Counties. Throughout the 1970's, she was the executive who made sure that nutrition services and senior centers and information and referral programs were established for all. She did not miss a beat when she retired from State service 30 years ago and became a “professional volunteer.”

Though much of her current focus is on the elders of Coral Gables, her ideas for new programs, locally, statewide or nationally are well known, and she even has suggestions for outreach to children and families. She has served on many Advisory Councils which have dealt with health issues, or hurricanes or transportation or intergenerational art contests! She understands how to launch new services, gain community and/or legislative support and manage successful programs.  I recently learned that she knew my Father when they worked together on children and youth issues; and they were both appointed by Governor Chiles as delegates to the 1995 White House Conference on Aging!

She continues to serve on the Coral Gables Senior Citizens’ Advisory Board and assists with long term planning strategies to enhance services for seniors. She has many ideas for the future; and the State of Florida is the better for her energy and passion!

Norma Lemberg continues to make a difference!