FOCIS of Navajo County announces their new name and conference

set for June 19, 2008 in Pinetop

The Elder Abuse Task Force of Navajo County would like to announce that they have renamed the group FOCIS (Focus on Community Initiatives for Seniors).  The group will continue to address issues of elder abuse but will expand to all areas affecting seniors such as healthy lifestyles, alternative living, empowerment, financial planning, and mental health. 

A conference, “A Celebration of Aging: Exploring Alternative Living” is planned for June 19, 2008 at the Hon-Dah Conference Center in Pinetop, will be open to all community members interested in finding out more about how to be an independent senior, sustainable living, and the Title 36 petition process for mental health treatment.  The keynote speaker will be Eric Haider, a nationally recognized speaker and leader in long term care, who has received attention for his innovative model of Person Centered Care. He is a motivating speaker and is inspiring the world to change the way the long term living is practiced.

In addition, during our luncheon a successful senior nominated by their peers will be given an award.

The cost of the conference includes lunch and snacks this year and is $30.00 before June 10, 2008 and $35.00 at the door. 

For more information, please call Georgina (928) 338-3674, Vina (928) 242-4770,

Maria (928) 368-6575 or Judy at (928) 532-4330 or email jgorman@azdes.gov.    

Elder Issues group to award a successful senior during June conference:

Do you know of a successful senior who has overcome obstacles and has still managed to be positive and inspiring to others?  If you do, FOCIS (Focus on Community Initiatives for Seniors) of Navajo County would like you to submit the name of that senior so they can attend and accept an award at the FOCIS Conference luncheon set for June 19, 2008.  

The conference, “A Celebration of Aging: Exploring Alternative Living” will be held at the Hon-Dah Conference Center in Pinetop from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.  Topics will include learning how to be an independent senior, sustainable living, and the Title 36 petition process for mental health treatment.  The keynote speaker will be Eric Haider, a nationally recognized speaker and leader in long term care, who has received attention for his innovative model of Person Centered Care. He is a motivating speaker and is inspiring the world to change the way the long term living is practiced. 

The cost of the conference includes lunch and snacks this year and is $30.00 before June 10, 2008 and $35.00 at the door. 

To submit names of successful seniors or for more information, please call

Georgina (928) 338-3674, Vina (928) 242-4770, Maria (928) 368-6575

or Judy at (928) 532-4330 or email jgorman@azdes.gov.