Morris County Honors Norwescap, Marks Older Americans Month
Published on May 28, 2025
County Commissioners Recognize Nonprofit’s 60-Year Anniversary
The Morris County Board of County Commissioners proclaimed May 2025 as Older Americans Month during this week’s public meeting in Morristown, recognizing the contributions of older residents and honoring Norwescap for six decades of dedicated service to older adults and families across the region.
Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen presented a framed proclamation to Christine Hellyer, Director of the Office of Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming, and also presented a framed Resolution of Honor to Norwescap Chief Executive Officer Mark Valli in celebration of the nonprofit’s 60 years of service.
“Norwescap works closely with the Morris County Office of Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming and continues to be an incredible partner in making Morris County a better place to live. These programs provide our seniors with connection, education and support that help them lead more independent, fulfilling lives,” said Director Selen.
Founded in 1965, Norwescap has served northwestern New Jersey, assisting individuals and families striving for economic stability and improved well-being. In Morris County, the organization collaborates with the county to deliver impactful programs for older residents. Nearly $50,000 in annual county funding supports various Norwescap senior programs including:
- An annual Senior and Persons with Disabilities Art Show
- Evidence-based education and support programs for managing chronic illnesses
- Fall prevention programs, including Project Healthy Bones
- The Friendship at Heart initiative, offering wellness calls, check-in visits and volunteer money management services
- Volunteer grocery shopping assistance
“The theme for Older Americans Month in 2025 is ‘Flipping the Script on Aging,’ which challenges outdated stereotypes and celebrates the contributions of older adults. Our seniors are more than our grandparents; they are our neighbors, volunteers, co-workers and community leaders. One of Norwescap’s big initiatives is the AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP program, which matches individuals age 55 and older with meaningful volunteer opportunities,” said Hellyer. “We’re grateful to the county commissioners for supporting programs that empower older adults to stay active and engaged.”
In addition to its senior-focused programs, Norwescap offers comprehensive services that help people of all abilities address immediate needs and work towards long-term success for individuals and families. The organization provides education, job training, housing assistance, food security, financial empowerment and early childhood development programs across its service area.
“It’s so important to keep seniors active, involved and present in our communities. It is vital for them and their families, as well as our communities and businesses,” said Valli. “We have many programs available to support not just seniors, but individuals of all ages, so if you have a friend or neighbor who needs support, have them call (908-454-7000) or visit Norwescap’s website. Norwescap is here to support Morris County.”
For more information or to access senior services, residents may contact the Morris County Division on Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming at 340 West Hanover Avenue in Morris Township. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and can be reached at 973-285-6848 or 1-800-564-4656.
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Photos: (l-r) Commissioners John Krickus and Thomas Mastrangelo, Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, Morris County Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming Division Director Christine Hellyer, Norwescap CEO Mark Valli, Commissioner Deborah Smith, Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen, Commissioners Christine Myers and Douglas Cabana.