The Pelham Council on Aging (PCOA) is pleased to announce the William McDevitt Distinguished Citizen Award recipient for 2026 is Irene Hinkle. Irene received 2 nominations, and the committee voted unanimously to make this award. She was presented with the award at the 2026 Spring Fling on May 12th.
After retirement from her Nursing career spanning 40 yrs, Irene became an active volunteer at the Hobbs Community Center. Her role has grown over the last few years. She is now our Community Resource Specialist. She works tirelessly to match our Seniors with the vital resources they need, whatever that might be.
She is the PCOA liaison to the town and advocates with all town organizations to meet seniors' needs. Seniors can reach out to Irene for their individual and specific needs and be assured of confidentiality and compassion.
As Secretary of the PCOA, she brings her ongoing awareness of needs to the Board to initiate new programs and requests funding where needed. Her knowledge of all things related to the PCOA is invaluable.
Irene is also the Hobbs Volunteer Coordinator, matching volunteers' interests with the needs of the Center. She herself volunteers, teaching Bone Builders and facilitating Health and Wellness Seminars on important topics.
Irene will receive a donation of $500 to the charity of her choice.
