There’s a new face seniors will want to know at the Independence Township Senior Center.
Senior Services Coordinator Karen Koenigbauer began working for the center on November 1. Her primary responsibility is to bring resources into the center and make them available to Independence Township seniors.
Koenigbauer, 41, lives in Waterford with her husband Tom and their two children Emily, 13, and Scott, 8. She will complete her associates degree in mental health/social work through Oakland Community College this May. She completed an internship involving work in both impaired and regular classrooms with the Waterford School District.
An active stay-at-home mom, Koenigbauer possesses a wide range of experience and skills. She worked as a seasonal employee at Goldner Walch Nursery in Pontiac, is a member of the Michigan Horticultural Therapy Association and teaches Catechism at Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church.
So how did the newest senior center employee come across her career? A very close, personal concern showed her the way.
‘While helping my mom to find services, I became aware of how much work was involved with finding the housing, the right prescription coverage and such,? explained Koenigbauer. ‘I feel it’s good to have one source to go to for answers to all these different questions.?
‘I’m most excited about bringing the information here and informing residents of what’s available out there,? she added. ‘I like to help clear up all the confusion so many seniors encounter.?
Koenigbauer has several goals set for herself and her new position. First, she hopes to be a valuable resource for seniors and their families.
Second, she hopes to assist seniors in the decision making process regarding housing, healthcare and recreation.
Third, she hopes to enable seniors to maintain their highest level of independence.
And fourth, she plans to bring a new level of internet use and understanding to the center.
Even with these goals in mind, Koenigbauer knows her position will take plenty of time and footwork, especially when making seniors aware of the services she can offer.
‘I want seniors to know that all they have to do is call and set up an appointment ? they can come here to the center, or I can come to their home,? said Koenigbauer.
‘I’m excited to be working with the senior center and the Independence Township community,? she concluded. ‘I’m pleased to be able to bring my abilities to the area seniors.?