Maui residents Michelle Paularena and Matthew Napier have been recognized as outstanding senior citizen volunteers, as part of Older Americans Month in May.
They are among eight volunteers statewide being recognized by the Hawaii State Executive Office on Aging and county Area Agencies on Aging.
Paularena is a Senior Medicare Patrol volunteer who presents information to various groups and at community events to educate people on ways to recognize and prevent Medicare and Medicaid fraud.
"Her willingness to participate despite her physical disabilities, and caregiving for her spouse, makes her a hero and a role model for all," according to a news release on the recognition.
She is a volunteer for the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary and the Maui Ocean Center.
Napier helps provide transportation for West Maui residents to and from medical appointments, shopping and business errands. At times, he gives up weekends and holidays for clients who need rides to radiation or chemotherapy treatments.
"His service lifts the spirits of everyone he serves - especially those who live alone - which is vital to wellness and preventing premature institutionalization," the news release said.
As a Shriner for the past 11 years, Napier works to set up orthopedic clinics for Maui children needing surgery and care in Honolulu.
