2024 Programs of Excellence Series - Modernization

Kristoffer Kelly is a third-generation San Diegan with over 15 years of experience in TV, media, event production, and nonprofit leadership. His grandparents played a significant role in shaping his respect for elders, inspiring his dedication to making San Diego a better place for seniors to age. Continuing his family's legacy of building a stronger community in San Diego, Kristoffer has contributed through philanthropy, including co-hosting the Sanford Burnham Prebys Institute’s "Bring It!" event. He has raised funds for critical causes such as melanoma research, Rady Children’s Hospital, Oncology and Kids, and Meals on Wheels San Diego to name a few.

A Rotarian and graduate of LEAD San Diego’s Impact class of 2020, Kristoffer was awarded the Herbert G. Klein Memorial Leadership Award and holds a BFA from Chapman University. He lives in San Diego with his wife and two young children. As Director of Development & Partnerships at the San Diego Seniors Community Foundation, Kristoffer is dedicated to improving the lives of seniors and making San Diego a model city for aging well.

Junne Esguerra is the Program Manager at the San Diego Seniors Community Foundation, where she oversees the programs and initiatives, including grants administration, business development, and program operations. She also works diligently conducting intensive research on senior issues for advocacy reports. Her expertise is focused on improving the quality of life for older adults through impactful programming and community engagement.

Junne Esguerra is a dedicated professional with 20 years of experience in case management, program management, non-profit operations, contract/grant management, and developing collaborative partnerships.

Junne developed a strong commitment to serving her community stemming from volunteering with her mother at a local orphanage in the Philippines. She has dedicated her career to serving vulnerable populations through nonprofit social service organizations in San Diego County, focusing on seniors, at-risk youth, transitional-aged youth (TAY), individuals experiencing homelessness, and people living with disabilities.

Junne holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Sciences, with a primary focus on sociology and a secondary focus on political science and history. She has also earned a Master' s in Public Administration.

Junne is bi-lingual in Tagalog and enjoys cooking, spending time with her family, traveling, the arts, and laughter.

For the past 25 years, Marilyn has managed the staff, operations and long-term strategic planning of Center 50+ where they provide programs, activities and services to Salem's older adults, support to family caregivers, and serve as a resource to the community.  Center 50+ was asked by the City of Salem leadership to take the lead on the Salem Age Friendly Initiative. After a rigorous one-year assessment process an action plan was created. This plan continues to serve as a guide in future planning for the Center, creation of new public and private partnerships and collaboratives, and provides a framework for us to continue to advocate for further progress in creating a community people can live for their lifetime.  The development and growth of the Wellness on Wheels (Mobile Senior Center) is the results of our Age Friendly Initiative.

Heather Marriott was brought on to NCOA as a Program Specialist managing the Vaccine Uptake Initiative and supporting the NISC Affiliate Network expansion. She is a community engagement professional with a passion for income equality and health equity! She comes to NCOA from a small local nonprofit in Missouri, where she worked as a Community Engagement Director.