2025 Programs of Excellence - Modernizing Senior Centers

Jenna Hauss has spent the past 15 years working with older adults, and is dedicated to the continued growth of enhancing community-based services to best meet the demands of a growing population. Jenna has worked as a Social Worker and leader through a variety of clinical and community based settings. In 2018, Jenna became the Director of Strategic Initiatives & Community Based Services, supporting the executive leadership in their strategic vision and grant development opportunities throughout ONEgeneration. Her most recent transition to President and CEO comes with extensive history at ONEgeneration, allowing for a full –comprehensive understanding of the direction and growth opportunities that lay ahead, concentrating around supporting our most vulnerable communities. Jenna currently serves on the Accreditation board for the National Council on Aging and is the representative of California for the statewide leadership collaborative with the National Institute of Senior Centers.

Mercedes Nash serves as the Nutrition Manager overseeing daily meal options for residents of Oak Park and River Forest Townships. She leads the development and administration of nutrition programs that support older adults, including congregate and home-delivered meal services, while strengthening community partnerships and expanding access to healthy, culturally responsive meals that promote independence and overall well-being. Mercedes is passionate about supporting older adults in maintaining dignity and independence, leading to better, more fulfilling lives. Mercedes has a background in community health, as well as personal training and health coaching. Outside of work, she enjoys volunteering at church, being active, and spending time with family.

Pamela Mahn has spent nearly 30 years serving older adults in Oak Park and River Forest Townships, overseeing clinical and support services and expanding programs that promote independent living for older adults while also offering support to their family members and caregivers. She serves as Treasurer for the Illinois Township Senior Services Association and is actively involved in Dementia Friendly Community efforts, including a new designation for the Township as GUIDE Program navigators. An Oak Park native, Pam holds degrees from Loyola University Chicago and Concordia University Chicago, and enjoys time with her family, reading, and cooking.

Courtney Fleming holds a Master of Social Work from Louisiana State University and a Graduate Certificate in Gerontology from University of North Georgia. With a focus on improving the lives of older adults, she dedicates that vision through her oversight of communications and program planning across two senior center locations. As a founding member of the Forsyth County Senior Resource Coalition, she was inspired to develop and implement award-winning programs such as creating a social services division, online activity offerings during the pandemic and evening program topics focused on working older adults.  She frequently shares her expertise at both state and national professional conferences. These public speaking opportunities showcase the successful program and wellness initiatives for older adults implemented at Forsyth County Senior Services. 

Lycia holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English with a minor in Education from Christopher Newport University.  She is also a Certified Personal Trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and is a Functional Aging Specialist through the Functional Aging Institute.  Lycia’s shift to serving older adults came later in life as she entered the fitness industry and her clients skewed to the 50+ group, which is where Lycia found her passion for working with other adults.  Lycia leverages this passion along with the experiences she had in education, the business world, entrepreneurship and fitness to perform her role at Senior Services.  As the Community Relations and Activities Coordinator, Lycia is responsible for oversight of all Activities Programming, including Lifelong Learning, Art, Fitness and Events, Community Relations and Sponsorships.  Lycia plays a key role in organizing the Aging Well Expo, Senior Services premiere event for the public to gain knowledge about services and products available to older adults.  Lycia’s Community Relations work is designed to both promote Senior Services to the greater Forsyth County Community, as well as work with the business community to garner sponsorships for various Senior Services events.