Rugg and Crowe Named Maui Outstanding Older Americans

By Wendy Osher

Adele Rugg (left) and Jim Crowe (right) were selected by the County Office on Aging as the 2011 recipients of the Outstanding Older American Award. Photo courtesy COM.

Maui residents Adele Rugg and Jim Crowe were selected at the 2011 recipients of the County’s Outstanding Older American awards.

Jim Crowe, 78, is credited with mentoring parolees through Maui Economic Opportunity’s reintegration program.  He also ministered at Saint Rita’s church and served on the board of the Kula Community Association.

Adele Rugg, 66, is credited with raising funds for the Maui Nurses Scholarship Foundation.  She also served as president of the Kiwanis Club, and was on the Policy Advisory Board for Elder Affairs.

Rugg and Crowe were chosen by the County’s Office on Aging for the award, because of their long history of volunteering and providing community support for various charitable organizations throughout the years.

In order to qualify for the award, nominees must be at least 65 years old, and a resident of Maui County.  Nominees are awarded points for the services they provided to the community since turning 60.

“I am honored to recognize both Adele and Jim for sharing their experience, wisdom and compassion with the rest of us,” said Mayor Alan Arakawa. “There probably isn’t an organization that they haven’t volunteered, mentored or fundraised for out there.  They have served the community in almost every way that you can,” said Mayor Arakwa.

Both seniors were honored at a May 4th ceremony at Maui Tropical Plantation.

*** Supporting information courtesy, County of Maui.