Plum Man Wins Senior Hero Award

When Darnell "Jeff" Pope had a stroke years ago, he didn't think his life had meaning anymore.

After a period of depression, Pope spent a day at the Plum Senior Community Center. That was the beginning of his volunteerism.

On Wednesday, the Oakmont franchise of Home Instead Senior Care and the Plum Senior Community Center recognized Pope for all his volunteer contributions that led to him being named Pennsylvania’s Senior Hero for 2013. Many friends and community membered gathered to honor him with kind words, hugs and cake.

Pope is now under consideration for the national Salute to Senior Service award. The winner will be named at the end of the month.
 
As a result of his victory at the state level, Home Instead Inc. has donated $500 to the Plum Senior Center and $100 to a second charity close to his heart, the Brain Recovery Crew. He also received congratulatory certificates and proclamations from U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey, Congressman Keith Rothfus, State Reps. Tony DeLuca and Joe Markosek, State Sen. Jim Brewster and Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald.  

If Pope wins the national award, a $5,000 donation will be made to his charity of choice. 

Pope's acceptance speech can be heard in the attached video. Congratulations to this local resident who has made a difference in the lives of so many people!