Dolly is a fount of inspiration and joy, dedicating over 60 years to serving her community with a servant’s heart. Her extensive volunteer work has spanned organizations like Actors Theater, Norton Hospital, and Neighborhood House in the past and has continued in the present with time spent at the Franciscan Kitchen, VA hospital, Salvation Army, the Crusade for Children, and Lifespan. She remains active in various activities that nurture her physically, socially, and spiritually—from holding leadership positions at the VFW Auxiliary to serving as a lector, homebound communion minister, and member of the bereavement committee for her church. She also enjoys throwing annual Derby parties, participating in the Community Music Alliance and Merry Melodies choirs, and indulging in her love for dancing and travel.

"As I age, I dare to live life to its fullest, stay as active as I can, and try to make a difference through volunteer work."

Carl Bensinger, an esteemed alumnus of Brandeis School of Law, epitomizes the ideal of optimal aging through his continued involvement in legal practice, community service, and personal health. Since earning his degree in 1958, Carl has built a distinguished career in Louisville. His dedication goes beyond his professional duties; Carl has been volunteering for the Democratic Party for over 40 years. He is currently serving on the Louisville/Jefferson County Democratic Executive Committee and has worked on local, state, and national committees as well. As well as being a devoted supporter of the University of Louisville, Carl’s steadfast commitment to his career, community, and well-being distinctly reflects his adherence to the principles of optimal aging.

Betty Borland kickstarted a knitting group in her residence community, resulting in the creation of 2,057 hats. It all began when she started knitting during a game streaming session, prompting a friend to ask for lessons. Now, the group has grown to 23 members, including a blind lady, meeting twice a week by the fireplace to knit and socialize. Originally, they donated hats to Polish and Ukrainian refugees, but now they support various nonprofits serving children due to the challenges faced by missionaries. Mrs. Borland moved from Arizona, bringing her hat-making skills to Louisville and fostering a sense of community through her craft.

"As I age, I dare to continue the Hat Project that I started in March 2022. My goal is to teach Meadow Residents a new hobby and to enjoy the fellowship of gathering together to knit with a purpose. 23 ladies have made 2,205 hats that have been given to 2 elementary schools and 7 non-profit organizations for distribution to children in need."

Charles "Chuck" Deuser embodies optimal aging at 94 years old. Originally from Raymond, Nebraska, he relocated to northern Kentucky to work for Procter & Gamble and retired from their real estate division 33 years ago. He raised three children with his first wife, to whom he was married for 57 years until her passing, and later met his current wife, Joyce, at a church dance. A former competitive race walker, Chuck has participated in the National Senior Games multiple times and has been actively engaged with the Northern Kentucky Senior Games for 11 years as both a competitor and donor, earning the nickname “Two Buck Chuck” for handing out two-dollar bills during the games. He is also a devoted pickleball player, a respected member of the Cold Spring City Council, and a member of the Ethics Committee. Chuck enjoys writing poetry as part of a group in Eastern Kentucky and is a published writer featured in the Cincinnati Enquirer. He contributes to the Boone County Arboretum and designed t-shirts for its Dogwood Dash last year with his son. Generous and dedicated to various causes, Chuck lives by the motto “Find a need, help fill it up,” making his journey deserving of the Gold Standard of Optimal Aging Award.

"As I age, I dare to say that age is a number and I'm living my life not my age. There are still "mountains to climb" and "rivers to cross", because at 94 God has given me good health and I most use it wisely. Every morning I look at the day as an opportunity to do some good because my motto is "find a need and try to help fill it!"

Originally from Russia/Armenia, this married couple shares a deep historical bond. Both having engineering backgrounds, their shared work forged a soulmate connection. They relocated to the United States in 1998, and have since resided near Dutchmans Lane and the nearby Jewish Family Career Services (JFCS) and Trager JCC. They regularly attend Access Care ADHC together. Their shared hobbies include puzzles, cooking, reading, using the computer, and socializing with others.

"As I age, I dare to lead and continue to work on the computer." — Eduard
"As I age, I dare to work hard and talk more." — Eugenia

Willa's enthusiasm has been the stimulus and inspiration for all that have had the opportunity to know her. At the age of 91, she manages to do more than most can do at half her age. She wears many hats at Young Hearts Theatre, serving as both musical director and actor. She not only graces the stage with her performances but also directs choreography and even writes plays for the group. Young Hearts Theatre, a longstanding non-profit organization in Kentucky, has thrived for decades under Willa's leadership, providing senior adults a platform for free entertainment. She has the can-do spirit and never-give-up approach to adversity that motivates all that know her.

"As I age, I dare to keep learning new ideas and concepts and keep physically moving so I can enjoy these new adventures. I dare to keep teaching and sharing freely my expertise in drama and music with others so they can happily expand their potential. I dare to stand firm in my faith in God and loyalty to my country and my family. I dare to love!"

Gladys was born in 1932 in rural Texas to sharecroppers. In a system not unlike slavery, the sharecroppers were stuck in a cycle of unpayable debt to the white landowners. The family sought to escape and first sent Gladys at age 10 to Houston. In Houston, she surprised her school that a girl from the countryside could excel academically. She graduated as valedictorian of her class, and then magna cum laude from Texas Southern University. She later went to law school, took night classes while working full time with four kids, and became the second Black person to graduate from South Texas College of Law. She has practiced law for over 50 years and still practices at 92 years old. She has also led community development projects in Houston’s Fifth Ward, including starting a community garden that donates food to Project Hunger, and served as an appointed local judge.

Mary is a widow, mother of four children, and grandmother. She worked as a nurse at the old St. Joseph Hospital and devoted herself to serving as a Sunday school teacher. Known for her friendly demeanor, she spreads encouragement wherever she goes and shares her love through handmade birthday cards, get well cards, and crafts. She even shared her talents with a wider audience when she entered some of her crafts in the state fair a few years ago.  

"As I age, I dare to embrace my arrival to the 90s with the ability to care for myself and function well in other areas. I will with confidence and gratitude face my life daily, enjoy my family and my home, worship, bake, crochet, read, piece together puzzles and travel."

Elizabeth is a born and raised Kentuckian who grew up in east Louisville off Tucker Station Road. She moved to New York City to attend Barnard College, graduating in 1948 with a degree in English literature. Elizabeth, passionate about music and singing, became deeply involved with the chapel choir, performing during services at Saint Paul’s Chapel, and often went to the Metropolitan Opera House in her free time. After college, Elizabeth moved back to Louisville and worked at the Kentucky State Department of Health, but she continued to foster her love for performing, singing with the Kentucky Opera and becoming a vocal student at the UofL School of Music. She was also a soloist with the Louisville Orchestra in a work for the Rockefeller Foundation Grant. Elizabeth met her husband, Dr. Douglas Martin Haynes, through their shared love of opera. They wedded in 1961 and remained happily married for 46 years. Douglas was a professor and chairman of obstetrics and gynecology at the UofL medical school, later becoming the dean of the medical school from 1969 to 1973. They have two beautiful sons, Doug and Lewis Haynes, and their only grandchild, Amy, who was recently married in 2023. Elizabeth always says the keys to a long, happy life are a martini and some good chocolate.

"As I age, I dare to get out of bed, fix my breakfast and solve the NY Times Spelling Bee puzzle. The goal is to reach Queen Bee every day."

Ann Hemdahl-Owen, a lifelong artist specializing in impressionism, taught art and design at JCTC for many decades after starting her career as a nursery and kindergarten teacher. Raised in California, she moved to Indiana and Kentucky with her family when her father took a teaching job at UofL. Ann, a survivor of childhood trauma, channels her experiences into her art, focusing on themes of healing and transformation.

"As I age, I dare to enjoy my life and my body to explore all the goodness around me. I am blessed with great friends and family, with the opportunity to create paintings which feed my soul, the joy of living in a beautiful country home in a free country. My purpose is to bring joy to the people I meet everyday. I love my partner Kenny who teaches me lessons each day which are sometimes difficult because I am very stubborn.  I love my dog Thoro, my gardens and treasures and freedom."

Sister Jo Ann Jansing, born in Louisville in 1938, joined the Ursuline Sisters of Louisville after graduating from Ursuline Academy in 1957. She dedicated 37 years to teaching, starting at St. Ann Elementary School and later becoming a professor of chemistry at Indiana University Southeast from 1970 to 2001. Sister Jo Ann also served twice in leadership of the Ursuline Sisters, from 2002 to 2008 and 2014 to 2020. In retirement, she volunteers at Shively Ministries, ministers eucharist liturgies at Nazareth Home, and provides transportation to those needing a way to the doctor and other appointments. At home, she is the primary grocery shopper, serves delicious dinners, and makes community with her fellow sisters.

"As I age, I dare to say as healthy as possible by getting the proper exercise for my body, the proper stimulation for my mind, and the proper input and rest for my soul, allowing me to interact with the people and events of each day with enthusiasm."

Fay Jeffries has spent her life serving and caring for other people. She spent her career in the Jefferson County Public Schools as a teacher, guidance counselor and school psychologist. After retiring, she volunteered in many ways to help other people. Fay has always been active and has enjoyed participating in the activities available at Miralea Independent Living and now at Grove Point Assisted Living. Her infectious laughter brings joy to those around her.

"As I age, I dare to maintain active engagement with family and friends and strive to be a positive and loving influence daily."

Booker began his career as a janitor at South Central Bell at the age of 17, eventually rising to become CEO of the CWA union. With seven children and many grandchildren, he's deeply devoted to his family. Known for his humility and strength, Booker is admired for his willingness to help others. In his free time, he gives back to his community with donations and spends time with loved ones, including his dogs, Chichi and Pickles.

"As I age, I dare to complain. At the end of life, what really matters is not what we bought, but what we built; not what we got, but what we shared; not our competence, but our character; not our success but our signficance. Life a life that matters- live a life of love."

Donald Lockhart | AGE: 85

Donald Lockhart has dedicated over 15 years to volunteering with the Louisville Metro Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), contributing over 6000 hours to various organizations, including Catholic Charities, Kentucky Refugee Ministries (KRM), Candy for Caring, Water Step, Schuhmann Center, Kentucky Center for the Arts, and St. Matthews Area Ministries (SMAM). Despite becoming visually impaired just over a year ago, Don remains active, volunteering at least three times a week with multiple organizations. Alongside his wife, Shelley Lockhart, they form a dynamic and compassionate team, continuing to serve their community with unwavering dedication.

"As I age, I dare to make every day count, continue volunteering, and keep moving."

Dr. Jerry Martin | AGE: 88

Dr. Jerry Martin graduated from the University of Louisville School of Medicine in 1963 and is a decorated veteran with numerous honors and awards for his military service. Beyond his medical career, he's authored several books and has more manuscripts on deck to publish. In his free time, he enjoys woodworking and telling engaging stories of history from a personal perspective.

"As I age, I dare to greet each new day as a welcomed new friend. I always strive to learn at least one new thing each day, if it is nothing more than a dictionary word previously unknown to me. I think more about the future than about the past. Although a widower now nearly eight years, I choose not to be sad and sorrowful, but always to reflect on those wonderful happy moments shared witha. very special lady and to be thankful for our children and the entire family. As I sit alone, I sometimes look across teh room and view an empty chair; but i do not swell on its emptiness- rather on my mind's eye; I see all those family members, friends, and unexpected guests who have occurpied that chair over the years. During nearly forty years of active medical practice, my constant prayer was that i help everyone i treated and harm no one."

Perry and Anne are a dynamic couple known for their dedication to both aviation and fitness. Perry worked at GE for over 50 years and has been a certified flight instructor for just as long, sharing his passion and expertise with countless students. He owns three planes and performs inspections for fun. Anne, a retired nurse, has been a steadfast supporter of Perry, assisting with the administration of his business from the very beginning.

Together, they have been active members of a running and walking group for many years, maintaining their fitness and community spirit. Perry has participated in 33 mini marathons, while Anne has completed 20. They continue to participate in 5K events, remaining well-known figures in the local running community. Their commitment to their pursuits and to each other serves as an inspiration to all who know them.

"As I age, I dare to look back on a life filled with blessings and activities resulting in a blessed life. I consider myself very fortunate to have success in many of my endeavors due to a very helpful wife and family." — Perry
"As I age, I dare to say thank you Lord for my husband and the many blessings of family, friends, and associates that have touched our lives and continue to do so!" — Anne

Dave Mehl, married for 60 years with two children and six grandchildren, has a deep love for big band music. He started playing trumpet and flugelhorn at nine and hasn't stopped since. In 1993, while working at GE, he formed the Swing Street Big Band, playing standards, oldies, and new big band pieces. Still the conductor and lead trumpeter, he performs monthly with the band at the Kingfish restaurant on the Ohio River. Dave also leads a 12-piece band for special events and plays in the Oldham Co. Community Band and a Wednesday night rehearsal band. He finds joy in sharing his music with others, including performances for senior living communities, and credits his faith and marriage to Diane for his happiness and optimism. He encourages others to embrace happiness, optimism, and generosity as they age, daring to continue playing trumpet solos and offering advice to his grandchildren.

"As I age, I dare to praise the Lord, be happy, continue to play solo trumpet in 3 bands while managing my own 17-piece swing band, getting gigs, staffing the band, and organizing music for each gig."

Peggy and Jerry met at the King and Queen Restaurant in Jeffersonville, IN, in 1952 when Peggy was visiting from Florida for the summer. Afterwards, Jerry asked his friend, “Who is the girl with the tan legs?” They started dating when she moved back to Jeffersonville, and they attended their junior prom in 1954, breaking up shortly afterwards.

After going their separate ways, Peggy moved around the country, raising two children, and eventually resettling in southern Indiana and retiring from the South-Central Bell phone company. Jerry stayed in the area, raising four children, and working in the family electrical business, Metzger Electric, which he co-owned with his brother after his father retired. He then ran the business by himself after his brother retired in 1994, retiring himself in 2000.

Peggy and Jerry reconnected in 1991. When they saw each other for the first time, Peggy thought to herself, “Be still my heart,” and asked for a hug. They claim their relationship rekindled at that moment and after celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary in early September, Peggy says Jerry still “thrills her down to her toes.”

Together they have eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. They’ve enjoyed double dating a second time with couple friends from high school and their retirement has included traveling, fishing, and wintering in Florida for 10 years. They say their secrets to longevity include “being in love,” eating right, exercise, moderation, and having found a good church.

"As I age, I dare not think about where I would be today if Peg and I had not met again." — Jerry
"As I age, I dare to continue living as I have, with God's hand on my shoulder. At almost 87 years old, I have great expectations for a wonderful future." — Peggy

Showing love in all its facets, Rev. Gary Torrens has spent the last 50 years as a Presbyterian minister, an advocate, a teacher, an apostle, and an example. His story is one of sharing God's love with everyone. Gary was born and raised in a small town in Nebraska. He attended the University of Nebraska and majored in philosophy. His mentor at the university encouraged him to apply for a fellowship to study for the ministry, and he was accepted into Yale Divinity School. Events that occurred while he was there changed his life forever.

In 1963, Gary, along with several students, traveled to Mississippi to take part in the freedom vote, a movement to determine the desire of black citizens to vote. They were attacked by the White Citizens’ Council and nearly killed. This was a turning point in Gary's life, and his future ministry was based on justice and equality. 

Gary served at every level of the Presbyterian Church from pastor, presbytery executive, synod staff and general assembly associate stated clerk. In all these positions he advocated for those who had little or no voice. He was a "pastor to pastors" in his role as executive presbyter. Gary has always been respected for his knowledge and love for those with whom he worked.

"As I age, I dare to continue to love God and continue to seek justice for all the people in God's world."

Dr. Jose and Mariana Torres | AGE: 100 & 86

Dr. Jose C. Torres was born in Peru and came to the U.S. in 1958. Following his training in general, vascular, and thoracic surgery at various hospitals around the country, he chose Jeffersonville, Indiana as his home. Dr. Torres practiced from 1968 until his retirement in 1997. In 1979, he helped create the technique “Gastric Bypass at the Lesser Curvature of the Stomach,” which was instrumental in the development of weight loss surgery. In February 2024, he was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash award signed by the Governor of Indiana Eric Holcomb and presented by Senator Chris Garten of Indiana.

Mariana came to America with her husband and 10-month baby girl and kept busy as a doting mother and wife all while learning English. After the couple’s three children graduated from college, Mariana opened her own business where she worked for 20 years with much success. At the present time, she stays entertained by reading books, walking and swimming.

"As I age, I dare to bicycle around the world, swim in the Pacific Ocean, and dance the tango!" — Jose
"As I age, I dare to live as long as my husband in good health, return to my hometown Chachapoyas, Peru, and learn how to play the piano." — Mariana

Julia Wales | AGE: 89

Julia Wales remains very active; one would hardly guess her age upon meeting her. She is a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother; and when tragedy struck and her granddaughter lost her mother in a car accident, Julia stepped in as her guardian. Her commitment extends to her church community, where she's actively involved in various ministries, serving as a cantor and Eucharistic minister. As a dedicated member of the Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary for half a century, Julia has not only held the position of Grand Lady but also nurtures and guides the younger members. Amidst all this, she remains a fervent supporter of her beloved Louisville Cardinals, faithfully attending the Lady Cards’ home games.

"As I age, I dare to be complacent. I will continue to be active in my church and part of the sick ministry and keep exercise as a daily part of my life."

Father Francis Walsh | AGE: 93

Fr. Walsh has been an ordained Roman Catholic Priest for 67 years. During this time, he served as an associate pastor for five parishes in the Cleveland Diocese, pastor and administrator for two parishes for 38 years, member of the Diocese Personnel Board for several years, and pastor-in-residence for eight years after his retirement. Although retired from the Diocese of Cleveland, Ohio, Fr. Walsh still performs mass regularly for various parishes, conducts weddings and funerals, and visits the sick and homebound so they can receive the blessing of prayer and the anointing of the sick. Humble and generous, he never takes credit for his great work and care for others. He has dedicated his life to serving and giving to those who are most in need, including the poor and homeless—giving food and even assisting with purchasing medications for those in need. His sense of humor, positive outlook on life, and source of counsel when needed gives his family and friends such joy. Fr. Walsh still plays golf weekly, enjoys traveling to family events, and joining weekly dinners with friends. He has relished many trips to Ireland to visit family. He serves as chaplain for the East Side of Cleveland Ancient Order of Hibernians and was one of the honored chairs of the 2024 St. Patrick's Day Parade in Cleveland, Ohio.

"As I age, I dare to play golf as long as I can swing a club and hit the ball forward. I plan to continue saying mass at Parishes needing help as long as I can drive (safely) and not have parishoners fully asleep during my homilies!"

Anna Washington | AGE: 85

Anna Washington has volunteered for over 22 years with the Louisville Metro Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) at the Schuhmann Center, dedicating three days a week to this outreach ministry for the homeless. Deeply committed, she never misses a day when the center is open. A widow, Anna stays independent and relies on TARC to get where she needs to. She also enjoys sewing and gardening with flowers. She is known for her humility and kindness, truly having a heart of gold.

"As I age, I dare to go to church, bible class, Sunday school to hear the Word, volunteer, make new friends, go shopping, and work with flowers."

Tillman "TJ" Williams | AGE: 89

Mary Ann Willinger has volunteered with the Louisville Metro RSVP and St. Joseph Children's Home Sewing Society for 26 years. She loves meeting weekly with 50 other women to sew quilts, blankets, and comforters for St. Joseph Children's Home, cherishing the social engagement. Before volunteering, she worked for many years as the lead teller at National City Bank.

"As I age, I dare to continue the activities I love. These include making quilts for St. Joseph's Children and family, giving back to the community by volunteering and making new friends along the way, spending time with family, and keeping such memories close to my heart."