AEOA names new Senior and Nutrition Director
Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency announces new leadership of its Senior and Nutrition Services department – a first for the non-profit in 40 years. Carrie Pellinen succeeds Marilyn Ocepek who retired from the community action agency in July after 55 years with AEOA.
Growing up north of Virginia in Cook, Pellinen understands our Iron Range culture and has a long-standing connection to the cities, towns and villages AEOA supports. As Director, she will oversee programs that support older adults throughout the region, including nutrition services and volunteer operations through strategic planning, budgeting, program development and financial oversight of the department.
“I am honored and excited to step into the role of Senior and Nutrition Services Director here at AEOA. Following Marilyn Ocepek, who dedicated an incredible 55 years to AEOA, is a privilege and a responsibility. Her dedication and leadership have created a strong foundation for our programs and the seniors we serve,” Pellinen said. “I look forward to building on her legacy, supporting our staff and volunteers, strengthening community partnerships, and bringing new ideas and energy to the important work ahead.”
Prior to her promotion, Pellinen spent nearly three years with AEOA as Volunteer Services and Food Access Manager. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from The College of St. Scholastica and is currently completing a Master of Business Administration in Leadership and Change from her alma mater. Pellinen recently received her Certified Community Action Professional credential, a prestigious accolade in the community action community.
“In Carrie’s tenure here, she has done an outstanding job of guiding and growing the many services she has been responsible for, working with a team of other valuable AEOA employees,” said AEOA Executive Director Mark Page when announcing Pellinen’s succession in August. “I know she will be successful.”
AEOA’s Senior and Nutrition Services department enhances Minnesota’s Arrowhead communities by offering Meals on Wheels, Groceries To Go, Senior Dining, Arrowhead Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, Tax-Aide assistance and a medical loan closet. The department also supports local food shelves and farmers markets and provides application assistance for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) program benefits.