Friend of the Elderly

The Friend of the Elderly award is given annually to an individual or organization making a substantial and/or unique contribution to the health, housing, social, psychological, or spiritual quality of older adults’ lives.

2026 Friend of the Elderly

The City of Kaukauna, Wisconsin
(pictured: the Mayor of Kaukauna)

For the first time in history, the Friend of the Elderly award is being presented to a whole community rather than a single honoree. The City of Kaukauna, WI, has earned this recognition through decades of partnership, compassion, and unwavering support for the residents of Round House Manor. This special bond began more than 40 years ago when community leaders approached RHF to build affordable senior apartments on a historic site in Kaukauna.

The city is always quick to render aid during times of need. A powerful example came in May 2023 when a tornado struck the community, tearing off the roof and leaving residents without the safety and stability of their homes. Kaukauna immediately rallied with an outpouring of love and generosity. A local hotel opened its doors to displaced residents, community members delivered hot meals, and the Red Cross set up a “mini mart” at the hotel to provide essential supplies. RHF is honored to celebrate a city that continues to stand by its seniors with heart and generosity.

RHF is pleased to present the City of Kaukauna, Wisconsin, with the 2026 Friend of the Elderly Award.

Congratulations to all of our past award recipients!

2025 — Dr. Laura Trejo, Director of the Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department
2024 – Tiena Johnson Hall, Executive Director of CA Housing Finance Agency
2023 – Dr. Barbara White and Ms. Patti LaPlace
2022 – Dr. Laverne R. Joseph, Former President and CEO, Retirement Housing Foundation
2020 – Scott P. Moore, Legal Specialist, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
2019 – Steve Protulis, President / CEO, Elderly Housing Development and Operations Corporation
2018 – Tom Slemmer, President / CEO (retired)
2017 – Jim Bowman, President & CEO, National Affordable Housing Trust
2016 – David Schless, President & CEO, American Senior Housing Association
2015 – Kristina Cook, Executive Director
2014 – Ellie Hollander, President & CEO, Meals on Wheels Association of America
2013 – Henry Cisneros, Former Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development
2012 – Jay Schochet and Richard Henken, Schochet Associates, Inc.
2011 – Larry Minnix, President, Leading Age
2010 – Thomas Gleason, Executive Director, Mass Housing
2009 – Jan Perry, Los Angeles Councilwoman
2008 – Carl A. Ballton, President & CEO, Union Bank of California Foundation
2007 – Tom Jenkins, Judge
2006 – Barney Frank, Congressman