Honoring the profound legacy to Serving Seniors from late board member Simon Silva, longtime Serving Seniors board member and donor Barbara Brown was named the 2025 Simon Silva Leadership Award winner during the organization’s 2025 “World Of Difference” volunteer recognition event on April 5.
Simon Silva, who passed away from cancer on September 3, 2022, at age 56, exemplifies servant leadership at its best. He spent 29 years dedicated to public service. His life had a profound impact on the Serving Seniors mission and well beyond into the community.
As a dedicated donor and volunteer for 28 years, Brown focuses on the need for affordable senior housing as a tribute to her mother, who lived until age 99.
“My mom lived to be 99 in a nursing facility in Florida and was treated very well. I always felt good about the care my mom received and about seniors and treating them as people with dignity and kindness,” Brown explains.
Now 91 years old herself, Brown understands the concerns of older adults. She continues to be a tireless leader and a force for good addressing the needs of low-income and older adults experiencing homelessness.
Brown helps fund efforts by Serving Seniors to provide much needed socialization for older adults, cited as a serious health concern by the U.S. Surgeon General’s office. She encourages a sense of community by supporting social events including donating prizes for friendly social games.
“I like the many activities Serving Seniors provides, like computer classes, exercise classes, entertainment like bingo games, and more. These add to the wellbeing of the seniors,” said Brown.
Brown cultivates the next generation of young philanthropists by bringing her grandchildren to serve lunch at the Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center.
THANK YOU for all you do, Barbara!
Click here to learn more about our World of Difference Volunteer Appreciation Event.
