The late Robert W. Jackson was one of West Virginia’s most recognized senior advocates; he worked tirelessly both in state government and in the private sector to ensure improvements in policy, planning, and services to seniors. In his honor, the Bureau sponsors the Robert W. Jackson Senior Conference each year to provide workshops and activities for seniors from around the state.
Last year's conference was held May 25–27, 2011 at Cedar Lakes Conference Center in Ripley. This educational and fun conference was a celebration of the contributions West Virginia’s older adults make to our communities, culminating on Friday morning with the presentation of the Robert W. Jackson Distinguished Service Award to Bill Konkle of Ohio County – a volunteer with compassion, concern and commitment to West Virginia seniors.
The Bureau of Senior Services was pleased to have 210 participants join in a wide variety of conference activities including Bocce Ball, Bingo, Elderlaw Myths, Zumba, eBay Basics, Healthy Cooking for People with Diabetes, Retirement Income Planning, Dancing your Joy! Yoga Dance, Lawn and Plant Care, Mountain Music for These Times with Michael and Carrie Kline, and Backyard Birding and Habitat Enhancement.
Over the years and to this day, the conference has proven to be a great experience for those involved, but the camaraderie and friendships that are developed and maintained among these highly engaged older adults and other participants from around the state make it truly extraordinary. This year's conference is scheduled May 23–25. Additional details will be posted at a later date.
For more information on the conference, please contact your local senior center or Nel Kimble at the Bureau of Senior Services at 304-558-3317. Photos from the 2011 conference and the 2010 conference are available.