The John O’Neill scholarship fund was recently established by Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services (SCES) to support the next generation of elder services leaders and advocates. O’Neill was executive director at SCES for 38 years, before retiring in October.

John O’Neill was Executive Director of Somerville Cambridge Elder Services (SCES) for 38 years before retiring in October of 2017. A tireless advocate for helping older adults maintain health and well-being in the setting of their choice, O’Neill was also mindful of future challenges facing elder services, including the growing need for well-trained, caring people to manage programs and provide information, health and support services:

“With 10,000 baby boomers turning 65 each day, we already face a critical shortage of professionals and para-professionals trained to work with older adults and be respectful of their autonomy and dignity,” said O’Neill.

To stimulate interest among local high school students, the SCES board of directors has established the John O’Neill Scholarship Fund.  Two $1,000 grants will be awarded to graduating seniors, one each from Somerville High School and Cambridge Rindge and Latin School.

O’Neill scholars will be selected based on promise as critical thinkers, potential leadership, and commitment to helping older people live healthy independent lives. Graduates with career goals in health care, social work, political science, and allied areas are strongly encouraged to apply. The students chosen will be afforded the opportunity to learn about the services and community programs provided by SCES.

“Our goal in establishing this fund is to help outstanding local students become the next generation of leaders in elder services,” said SCES Board President Susann Wilkinson. “Given his track record of leadership and advocacy, the O’Neill scholars will extend John’s legacy in the community.”

To apply, high school seniors in need of financial aid should visit the counseling office at Somerville High or CRLS, look up the John O’Neill Scholarship requirements, and submit their materials for consideration.

To donate to the John O’Neill Scholarship Fund, please visit our website eldercare.org, or send a check to SCES, 61 Medford St., Somerville, MA 02143-3429, Attn. JO Scholarship Fund.

Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services (SCES) is a non-profit agency that supports the independence and well-being of older people in Somerville and Cambridge. For more information, visit eldercare.org, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, or contact the SCES Aging Information Center at 617-628-2601 for free advice and guidance.