Elbert Cole Award
Elbert Cole Award
Dr. Elbert Cole and the Elbert C. Cole, Jr. Legacy Award
Dr. Elbert C. Cole, Jr. was a United Methodist Church minister for 49 years, spending the last 23 years of his career as Senior Pastor at Central United Methodist Church in Kansas City. He died in 2010 at age 92.
In 1972 Dr. Cole founded Kansas City Shepherd’s Center. It was his strongly held conviction that keeping older adults involved in their communities would facilitate greater quality and length of life. His efforts grew into a national movement, resulting in the well-known and respected Shepherd’s Centers, offering community programs in which active older adults provide home services along with life enrichment and education programs. Currently, there are 55 Shepherd’s Centers in 17 states.
Dr. Rusty Ryan, long-time friend of Dr. Cole described him as a “visionary pastor whose personal attributes included friendliness, persistence, persuasiveness, kindness and concern for others.”
Dr. Cole was an active and beloved member of the board of the Nettleton Foundation for many years in service to older adults.
THE ELBERT C. COLE, JR LEGACY AWARD:
Begun in 2011, the annual award is given to an individual who exemplifies the values and vision of Dr. Cole. He inspired all around him to look at aging as a time of opportunity to continue learning and to give back. The award recognizes one who uses their knowledge, talent, skills, and passions in their work or volunteer service within the senior community.
The recipient is chosen by the Nettleton Foundation Board from candidates nominated by nonprofit organizations or individuals throughout the greater Kansas City metropolitan area. The recipient will receive a $5,000 award.
A candidate for consideration must:
- Be 65 years of age or older
- Be a role model who inspires others
- Demonstrate leadership & impact on his/her community
- Be a volunteer or may be employed in an encore career