Emory Senior Center Nationally Recognized for Community Garden

Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • May 29, 2024

The Area Agency on Aging of East Texas' senior nutrition center in Emory Center has garnered national recognition from the National Association of Nutrition and Agency Services Programs for its community garden program.

With a daily attendance of approximately 65 seniors, the Emory Senior Center is more than a meal site; it's a thriving hub of connection, engagement, and community. Participants are drawn to the center's welcoming atmosphere, where activities ranging from dominoes and cards to puzzles and bingo create an environment of fun and social interaction. In addition, the center serves as a group where friends share recipes, crafting endeavors, and dances.

Despite the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Emory Senior Center's resilience pushed through. Determined to maintain a positive atmosphere, participants initiated a project to establish a community garden within the senior center. With the support of the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA), raised planters were constructed and donated. The flourishing flowers and harvest of fresh vegetables stand as a testament to the hard work, dedication, and excitement of the center's participants.

In addition to the recognition, the Emory Senior Center received a special gift in honor of National Nutrition Month, which is celebrated in March to promote healthy practices among seniors.

Furthermore, the nutrition program's approach extends beyond meal sites to encompass comprehensive wellness initiatives offered by the AAA. Participants benefit from nutrition education, home-delivered meal services, and evidence-based health and wellness classes. These programs are accompanied by wellness checks and an opportunity for social interaction, combating isolation, and promoting overall well-being. With a commitment to promoting health, fostering connections, and enriching lives, the AAA 's Senior Nutrition Program aims to empower and uplift older individuals throughout East Texas.

Nutrition Program Health and Wellness Classes

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ETCOG Welcomes Adrian Cornejo as New Director of Aging Programs

By East Teas Council of Governments • September 2, 2025

The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) is pleased to announce the appointment of Adrian Cornejo as the new Director of the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA). In this role, Cornejo will lead efforts to develop and coordinate services that support the health, independence, and quality of life of older adults across ETCOG’s fourteen-county region. Cornejo brings a strong background in healthcare leadership and military service. He most recently worked as an Account Manager for Humana’s Institutional Special Needs Plan program, where he partnered with skilled nursing facilities to improve care coordination, leading to a 20% reduction in hospital readmissions. Earlier in his career, Cornejo served in the United States Navy for nearly two decades, rising to the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer and managing budgets exceeding $550 million while leading more than 350 Sailors and Marines. “Adrian’s leadership experience in both healthcare and the military has equipped him with the skills and dedication needed to serve East Texas seniors,” said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland. “His background in building partnerships and his deep commitment to public service make him a tremendous asset to our team.” Cornejo shared his enthusiasm for his new role, saying, “It is an honor to join ETCOG and to serve the seniors of East Texas. My goal is to build on the strong foundation already in place at the Area Agency on Aging and continue to expand access to services that help older adults and their families live with dignity and independence.” The AAA is administered through ETCOG and is part of a nationwide network created through the Older Americans Act of 1965. It provides a wide range of services, including information and referral, benefits counseling, case management, health education, senior nutrition programs, housing repair, caregiver support, and Ombudsman advocacy for individuals in long-term care facilities. These programs are designed to help older residents remain active and independent in their homes and communities for as long as possible.

Get Medicare Help You Can Trust – One-on-One or in a Group

By Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • August 6, 2025

Medicare Open Enrollment is right around the corner, and with so many plans and choices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our certified benefits counselors are here to help—whether you prefer to sit down one-on-one or schedule an educational session for your group or organization. They provide clear, unbiased information about Medicare so you can make informed decisions that fit your needs. These services are free and available to individuals, families, churches, senior centers, civic clubs, and other local groups. If you or someone you know has questions about Medicare coverage, upcoming changes, or available plans, now is the time to reach out. To schedule an appointment or request a group presentation, contact us at 1-800-442-8845 or www.easttexasaaa.org/request-speaker .