About:

The Shirley Bloodworth Senior of the Year Award
Introduction:
ElderCare of Alachua County is thrilled to introduce the Shirley Bloodworth Senior of the Year Award, an annual tribute to honor the extraordinary legacy of Shirley Bloodworth, MSN, RN. Shirley’s lifelong passion for advocacy, community service, and innovative programs has left an unforgettable mark on our community, and this award seeks to inspire others to follow in her footsteps.
Once nominations are submitted and reviewed, ElderCare will announce the recipient in December. The honoree will be celebrated at a special event in January, where their name will be added to the Shirley Bloodworth Legacy Plaque, prominently displayed at the Senior Recreation Center.
Purpose:
This award celebrates individuals who embody Shirley’s unwavering commitment to:
- Identifying gaps in resources and services for older adults.
- Creating impactful initiatives that improve the quality of life for our community.
Nomination Criteria:
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in the following areas:
- Education and Community Service:
- Dedication to addressing unmet needs and advocating for older adults.
- Significant contributions to programs or services that foster wellness, independence, and growth for seniors.
Nomination Process:
- Eligibility: Open to individuals whose actions reflect Shirley’s legacy of advocacy and care.
- Submission Requirements:
- A completed nomination form.
- A statement describing the nominee’s contributions and their impact on the community.
- Supporting materials (optional), such as letters of recommendation or relevant achievements.
- Timeline:
- Nominations Open: January 1, 2025
- Nominations Close: November 30, 2025
- Forms and additional information will be available here!
Recognition:
- Award Presentation:
The winner will be honored at a special event held annually at the Senior Recreation Center, where their name will be added to the Shirley Bloodworth Legacy Plaque, prominently displayed at the center.
Legacy of Shirley Bloodworth:
Shirley’s lifelong dedication to community service, education, and innovation included:
- Founding impactful programs like the PrimeTime Institute and the Community Coalition for Older Adults (CCOA).
- Advocating for underserved seniors and developing resources to support them.
- Fostering wellness and lifelong learning through her work at local and national levels.
Conclusion:
ElderCare invites the community to honor Shirley’s legacy by nominating deserving individuals for this prestigious award. Together, we can ensure her remarkable spirit continues to inspire and shape our community for generations to come.
For more information or to submit a nomination, please contact ElderCare of Alachua County at 352-265-9040 or email ElderCare@Shands.ufl.edu.