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Ohio Department of Aging Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 17, 2008

Department Seeks Nominations for Joined Hearts in Giving
Annual Honor Pays Tribute to Long Marriages and Community Service

COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Aging today issued a call for nominations for its Joined Hearts in Giving award. The honor recognizes Ohio couples married 40 years or longer who share a commitment not only to each other, but also to their communities through volunteer service.

Individuals and organizations interested in nominating neighbors, colleagues, family members or friends may download a nomination form or submit a nomination online by visiting www.aging.ohio.gov/news/JoinedHeartsInGiving/. The department will accept nominations through Nov. 30, 2008. Those chosen will be honored at a special reception held in observance of Valentine's Day.

"A long marriage takes commitment, sacrifice, understanding and, most of all, love." said Barbara E. Riley, director of the department. "The same is true for volunteerism. You have to love what you do, whom you do it for and whom you do it with to be successful. The Joined Hearts couples we've honored over the years embody these principles and set an example for all of us that a life devoted to others is a life well lived."

To be eligible for the Joined Hearts in Giving recognition, the couple must be married for 40 years or longer and at least one of the spouses must be age 60 or older. Each spouse must actively participate and volunteer in community service and the couple's primary residence must be in Ohio.

About ODA

The Ohio Department of Aging provides leadership for the delivery of services and supports that improve and promote quality of life and personal choice for older Ohioans, adults with disabilities, their families and their caregivers. Working with 12 area agencies on aging and other community partners, the department offers home- and community-based Medicaid waiver programs such as PASSPORT, the long-term care ombudsman program, the Golden Buckeye Card and more. Visit www.aging.ohio.gov.