Pat Jones, executive director of the Allen Council on Aging (COA), was honored as one of the People’s Health Champions at the New Orleans Saints game Sunday, October 3. The program, created by the Peoples Health Organization, in collaboration with the New Orleans Saints, was designed to recognize the exceptional achievement of Louisiana residents, age 65 and older.
Jones was actually named the Peoples Health Champion in December 2020, but COVID and no fans in the Dome, postponed the event until this past Sunday.
Jones, who is 91, said she enjoyed her day in New Orleans. She explained there is usually only one champion on the field each month, but she got to meet four other winners at Sunday’s game.
“It was so much fun,” she said. “We got to meet each other. We had a good time. We got to ride in a limousine. I was very honored to be there.”
Jones was nominated for the award by a group of her friends, who are directors in the aging network. She said the process included her going through a committee selection and then a personal interview before she was selected for the honor.
Laughing, Jones said she had a very busy weekend. Besides the attending the event in New Orleans, she was at the Homecoming reception in Oakdale. In her 21st year as director at COA, she said when she accepted the position in 2001, she told them it would be for two years only. Now its 21 years, and she said she has a great staff that allows her to do what she does. “They work very hard and are dedicated to helping the aging with services.
Before taking on the COA position, Jones had retired twice. At one time, she was co-owner of a printing company with her husband. They also owned the Oakdale Journal together. She also worked as editor at the paper after selling it to Louisiana State Newspapers.
When Jones’ granddaughter, J.L. Jones posted the photo on social media, she wrote, “I have to brag on my Gran! At 91 years old, shes being presented at the Saints game today for being chosen as a People’s Health Champion for all that she does for the senior citizens in the community (who are younger than her). So proud of her and thankful I’ve had a strong woman as a role model in my life. Love you so much!”
Readers can learn more about People’s Health Champions or nominating a senior citizen by visiting their webiste at champions.peopleshealth.com. Persons nominated must have accomplished something new and extraordinary after the age of 65 and be a resident of Louisiana
