New director of Sussex County Senior Services appointed

NEWTON — Sussex County has appointed Lorraine Hentz as the Director of Senior Services. Ms. Hentz has been employed by the County of Sussex since 1996 and has served in various positions including the Director for the Sussex County Division of Community and Youth Services since October 2006. "As the Director of Senior Services, Ms. Hentz will be a strong advocate for the seniors residing in Sussex County. She is a highly qualified candidate, and we are confident that under her directorship, the County of Sussex will continue to provide strong leadership in its ongoing effort to provide comprehensive, high quality services for our seniors," said Stephen Gruchacz, Administrator for the Sussex County Department of Human Services. Hentz received a bachelor's degree in psychology from Stockton State College and a master's degree in public administration and leadership from Centenary College. The new role as Director of Senior Services takes effect immediately. Lorraine Hentz stated, "I feel privileged to be given the opportunity to lead the Division of Senior Services and look forward to working with all of the seniors involved in our various programs. I can't wait to meet you all at Senior Day at the Fair, on Thursday, the 11th of August." The Sussex County Division of Senior Services (Aging), designated as one of the 21 County Area Agency on Aging (AAA), serves as the primary entity responsible for developing comprehensive, coordinated systems of community-based services for older adults. The Division is responsible for implementing, monitoring and evaluating programs in accordance with the State of New Jersey Strategic Plan. The role of the Division includes: Coordinating all programs on aging regardless of funding source, and serving as the central source for information and referral for services and programs; Preparing an Area Plan on Aging, which includes an analysis of the needs and existing services within the county and a comprehensive plan for the delivery of services to older people; Administering the annual allocation of federal Older Americans Act and state funds from the New Jersey Division of Aging and Community Services for projects and services within the county; Monitoring and evaluating projects funded under the Area Plan; Serving as an advocate to increase the public's understanding of the nature of the aging process and the aging individual; and Advising local governments and the Division of Aging and Community Services of unmet needs and recommending legislation where appropriate.