Age Friendly Saco appoints new executive director

Age Friendly Saco has announced the appointment of Becky Hadiaris as its new executive director.

A lifelong resident of Saco, Hadiaris brings over twenty years of dedicated experience working with older adults and a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all community members can thrive.

Before stepping into her new role, Hadiaris served on the Age Friendly Saco Board of Directors beginning in September 2023. Her career includes a leadership position at the Southern Maine Agency on Aging as Director of the Family Caregiver Support Program. In addition, she has held roles in nursing home settings, served as a Social Worker for Beacon Hospice, worked as a NeuroResource Facilitator for The Brain Injury Association, and spent seven years as Social Worker-Admissions at The Wardwell Neighborhood in Saco.

Hadiaris is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and holds a master’s degree from the University of New England. Her commitment to the community is further demonstrated through her involvement with the York County Elder Abuse Task Force and her service as an Advisory Committee Member for Adoptive and Foster Families of Maine.

“I am a lifelong Saco resident, and this opportunity allows me to combine my personal commitment to the community, with my professional experience supporting older adults, family caregivers, and underserved populations. Saco is not only where my past was shaped, but where I intend to age with grace, purpose, and continued engagement,” said Hadiaris.

In the upcoming months, Hadiaris will collaborate closely with Age Friendly Saco’s former Executive Director, Jean Saunders, engage with key stakeholders, consider new program initiatives, and explore funding opportunities. Her objectives include securing office space to host meals, training sessions, and support services for Saco’s older population, recruiting volunteers, and enhancing public awareness of Age Friendly Communities.

"Under Becky Hadiaris's dynamic leadership, Age Friendly Saco will continue to build on the vital community support role we are known for, strengthening connections and resources to empower our older adults to thrive at home and remain in their community,” said former Executive Director Jean Saunders.

Age Friendly Saco is a volunteer-based community organization with the mission of building “A Community for a Lifetime.” The organization promotes active aging by maximizing opportunities for health, engagement, and safety, while working to eliminate barriers that prevent citizens from remaining in their homes as they age. Its programs include medical transportation, monthly luncheons, sand bucket distribution, Handy Neighbors, and Tech Team. Learn More here: https://agefriendlysaco.org/