2010's CCHOAA WINNER:
Joseph Schwartz, Coral Springs, FL

2010's winner was Joseph Schwartz— another “professional volunteer” … a gentleman who for many years has dedicated his many professional and volunteer skills to projects which benefit Florida’s seniors.

A native New Yorker, Joseph Schwartz has been a successful Pharmacy executive at several companies, including Eckerd Drug Stores when he first came to Florida in the mid 90’s. In his new State he has served as President and Chief Operating Officer of both a wholesale prescription drug firm and a diabetic supply wholesale company.

Reviewing all the volunteer activities that he now organizes, leads and/or teaches, one knows that he is an energizer bunny! With his schedule, he really should admit that he is not retired.

His many projects have also been more than successful, not only due to his passion for contributing to others but as well his ability to integrate his executive knowledge and management skills into his advocacy. Throughout the State, and particularly in Tallahassee, he makes sure that Florida’s legislators and decision-makers are “in the know” about seniors and their priorities at the grass roots level.

He firmly believes in the adage that it is “never too late to learn!” His leadership of statewide education and training programs for seniors and law enforcement officers such as the Driver Safety Program and Medicare fraud and scams prevention are becoming legendary.

His TRIAD Board participation in the Tri-County/Broward area has led to a new Newsletter outreach about seniors’ issues and safety. And, last but not least, he can explain Medicare Part D, suggest medication management options, provide details about Social Security, and will soon become a SHINE volunteer!

As one of his nominators stated, “Joe is a role model for those who aspire to create change, implement innovative programs, always with a positive attitude."

He understands how to launch new services, create public-private partnerships, gain community and/or legislative consensus and support and manage successful programs. He has many ideas for the future; and the State of Florida is the better for his energy, passion, and leadership!

Joseph Schwartz is someone who makes a difference in the lives of many seniors! He exemplifies C. Colburn Hardy’s view that hopefully the projects in which he is involved will…. “make the world a better place in which to work, to live, to love and to have our being.”

That is what this Award is all about!