Good Neighbors Program hosts Elder Abuse Awareness Day today

The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day today with a luncheon at the Douglas County Senior Center.

Signs have been placed in the community to remind the public the importance of watching out for older Americans.

The luncheon is open to all seniors, serving at noon. The cost of the lunch is $7 for those under 60, and $3 for those over 60 years of age.

The program will begin with a welcome from Sheriff Dan Coverley. The event will also be attended by Undersheriff Ron Elges, as well as captains from the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, and volunteers from the Douglas Neighbor Good Neighbor Program, who will serve lunch to seniors.

A presentation will be provided on the efforts of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office to raise awareness and curb elder abuse in the community. Two public service announcement videos created by the Good Neighbor Program will be premiered during the luncheon and released to social media. The Good Neighbor Program administered by Sgt. Bernadette Smith was designed to reach out and protect seniors who are most vulnerable. This is accomplished by connecting with our seniors.

A new Good Neighbor website will also be premiered at the luncheon. The recent development of the site was made possible through a grant from the Department of Justice for the 2020-2021 fiscal year. Please visit www.dcsogoodneighbor.com to view the site. Anyone who would like to volunteer for or make a referral to the Good Neighbor program should call (775) 783-6441.