Annual recognition celebrates Older Americans Month and the power of volunteerism

Each May, Sacramento County joins the nation in celebrating Older Americans Month by shining a spotlight on local seniors who are giving back and making a difference. This year, five remarkable individuals were recognized with the prestigious Five Over 50 Volunteer Award, presented by the Sacramento County Adult and Aging Commission.

The 2025 recipients—one from each of the county’s five supervisorial districts—were honored during a special presentation at the May 20 Sacramento County Board of Supervisors meeting. Each honoree was selected for their outstanding volunteerism and commitment to community service, showcasing the vital role older adults play in building stronger, more connected neighborhoods.

Representing District 1, Gene Inderkum has spent nearly 15 years volunteering as an airport ambassador at Sacramento International Airport. Gene began helping travelers navigate the terminals out of a love for the hustle and bustle of the airport environment.

“I love the airport, I love the activity there, I love being in the airport’s atmosphere,” Gene said. Since the pandemic, he has taken on an expanded role by training new volunteers and continues to assist passengers daily. “I enjoy helping the people here, and it’s just something that makes you feel good.”

District 2 honoree Barbara Heinrich has been a key figure in the county’s Gifts from the Heart program for more than two decades. Her efforts, which include packaging dolls and action figures with custom-made clothes and decorations for children in foster care, have touched countless lives.

“I got started because a friend of mine wanted me to make Barbie clothes for her daughter,” Barbara explained. “Then I started putting the boxes together and didn’t have any place to give them to. My sister worked for the Child Protective Services program, and she told me about this program.”

Barbara encourages others to get involved. “The people are great and there’s something for everyone, really. You can deliver gifts and get to see people’s faces when they receive the gifts. You can wrap,” she said.

From District 3, Barbara Farley has served on the Carmichael HART board for more than 20 years. Her advocacy and leadership have helped create transitional housing like Charlotte House for individuals experiencing homelessness. Her long-standing commitment continues to bring critical resources and hope to those most in need.

District 4 recipient Bonnie Shewchuk exemplifies the Kiwanis Club of Rancho Murieta’s mission to “Change the World, One Community and One Child at a Time.” Whether she’s organizing local events or supporting youth-focused programs, Bonnie’s volunteer work strengthens her community and inspires others to serve.

Representing District 5, Tony Rutchena channels his own childhood experience into a commitment to uplifting today’s students. Volunteering at Lake Canyon Elementary and Arocho School, Tony teaches chess, checkers, dominoes, and gardening while supporting both in-school and after-school programs.

“I had an unhappy childhood in elementary school, long story short,” Tony said. “As an adult, I said you know what – no child should be unhappy and that’s why I’m here.”

Tony calls his approach “living the dream,” encouraging students to find what makes them happy and follow their passions. “I think at the end of the day, we should all try to give back in some kind of way,” he said. “Everybody has their own niche, and once you retire or even if you’re not retired and you’ve got a lot of time on your hands, I think giving back is a good thing. It makes you feel good about yourself, it makes others feel good.”

As Sacramento County celebrates Older Americans Month, the stories of these Five Over 50 award recipients serve as powerful reminders that age is never a barrier to making a meaningful impact. Their dedication proves that with time, heart, and purpose, anyone can be a force for positive change in their community.

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