The 2025 award recipients, representing each of the county’s five districts, were formally recognized during the May 20 Board of Supervisors meeting. Photo courtesy of Sacramento County

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Each May during Older Americans Month, Sacramento County honors older adults who are making a meaningful difference in their communities. This year, five inspiring individuals have been recognized with the Five Over 50 Volunteer Award, presented by the Sacramento County Adult and Aging Commission. These honorees exemplify the power of volunteerism, and the role older adults play in building stronger communities.

The 2025 award recipients, representing each of the county’s five districts, were formally recognized during the May 20 Board of Supervisors meeting.

Nearly 15 years ago, Gene Inderkum, from district one, started volunteering as an ambassador at Sacramento International Airport (SMF), helping travelers navigate the terminals.

“I love the airport, I love the activity there, I love being in the airport’s atmosphere,” said Inderkum.

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Inderkum stepped up even further by training new volunteers. Inderkum can often be seen greeting passengers and helping those who have questions.

“I enjoy helping the people here and it’s just something that makes you feel good,” said Inderkum.

Barbara Heinrich, from district two, has been a driving force behind Sacramento County’s Gifts from the Heart program for more than 20 years. Heinrich’s work has touched thousands of lives over the last two decades. Heinrich packages dolls and action figures for foster kids, designing clothes and decorating boxes for each individual doll.

“I got started because a friend of mine wanted me to make Barbie clothes for her daughter. Then I started putting the boxes together and didn’t have any place to give them to. My sister worked for the Child Protective Services program and she told me about this program,” Heinrich said.

Heinrich said that Gifts from the Heart is always looking for volunteers and donors, and there are several different ways to get involved.

“The people are great and there’s something for everyone, really. You can deliver gifts and get to see people’s faces when they receive the gifts. You can wrap,” said Heinrich.

With more than two decades of service on the Carmichael HART board, Barbara Farley, from district three, has shown dedication to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. Her work has helped establish transitional housing projects such as Charlotte House, providing much-needed shelter to those in need. Farley’s advocacy continues to inspire real change in her community.

Bonnie Shewchuk, from district four, is an active member of the Kiwanis Club of Rancho Murieta, where she embodies the club’s mission to “change the world, one community and one child at a time.” Whether organizing local events or supporting youth programs, Shewchuk’s contributions uplift the Rancho Murieta community and reflect a commitment to service.

Tony Rutchena, from district five, brings energy and enthusiasm to his volunteer work with students at Lake Canyon Elementary and Arocho School.

“I had an unhappy childhood in elementary school, long story short. As an adult, I said you know what, no child should be unhappy and that’s why I’m here,” Rutchena said.

As an instructor for chess, checkers, dominoes, sports and gardening, Rutchena plays a big role in school-wide and after-school activities. Rutchena said his theme is “living the dream,” something he encourages the youth to do by finding what makes them happy.

“I think at the end of the day, we should all try to give back in some kind of way. Everybody has their own niche, and once you retire or even if you’re not retired and you’ve got a lot of time on your hands, I think giving back is a good thing. It makes you feel good about yourself; it makes others feel good,” said Rutchena.

As Sacramento County celebrated Older Americans Month, the Five Over 50 Volunteer Award winners remind us that age is no barrier to meaningful contribution. These five volunteers are not only role models in Sacramento County but they are also a reminder that when you combine your passion with helping others, you can make a lasting impact.