Senior Center receives rural health award

On Nov. 20, the Johnson County Senior Center was celebrated at the 31st Annual Conference of the Rural Health Association of Tennessee. Director Kathy Motsinger-Eller accepted on behalf of the center the Rural Age Friendly Award for Community Programming, in recognition of the Johnson County Senior Center's Annual "Seniors Vs. Seniors: Battle of the Ages" Pickleball Tournament.The Rural Health Association of Tennessee (RHA) is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1994 that focuses on improving health outcomes for rural residents in Tennessee. Its mission is to lead the way for a healthy Tennessee through partnerships, education, advocacy, and resources.Each year with their Rural Health Awards, the RHA recognizes individuals and groups across the state of Tennessee who have dedicated themselves to the service of others within the field of rural healthcare. This year, a category for Rural Age Friendly Awards was added to recognize outstanding programs, organizations, and individuals advancing age-friendly care in Tennessee's rural communities.The Rural Age Friendly Award for Community Programming highlights innovative rural community-based programs that make aging well possible. The Johnson County Senior Center's Annual "Seniors Vs. Seniors: Battle of the Ages" Pickleball Tournament, for which Kathy accepted this award, is a unique community program that brings together older adults and local student athletes. This literal "battle of the ages" promotes physical activity, social connection, and friendly competition and is made possible each year with help from the center's community partners. Representing Johnson County High School, one of which partners the Senior Center collaborates with frequently, tennis coach Kechia Eller accompanied Kathy to accept the Rural Health Award.In addition to being recognized as an awardee, Kathy was also invited to participate as a panelist in a discussion on 'Innovative Age Friendly Projects in Rural Tennessee' at the RHA's Annual Conference. She joined other "Tennessee experts in aging" in sharing how their organizations are utilizing community partnerships and creative programs to help seniors in rural communities thrive where they live, work, and age.Kathy was thrilled for the Johnson County Senior Center to be recognized for its much-loved event and enjoyed the opportunity to attend the RHA conference and gain new tools and insights she will bring back to Johnson County.To learn more about the Johnson County Senior Center and its upcoming events, visit johnsoncountyseniorcenter.com, stop by the center Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., or call (423) 727-8883.