Great Lakes Wire

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has honored Melinda Anderson from Flint with the Older Adult of the Year Award. The recognition was part of the 2025 Older Michiganians Day celebration, held on the Michigan Capitol lawn in early May.

Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director, explained the significance of this award: “The Older Adult of the Year Award is an annual state tradition to celebrate the important contributions that older adult volunteers make in Michigan each year. The award recognizes an individual whose community has been enhanced through their local engagement, volunteerism and acts of service.”

Meghan Groen, MDHHS chief deputy director for Health Services, presented the award to Anderson. Groen stated, “It was my honor to present this year’s award to Melinda Anderson, whose lifetime of volunteer service has been so impactful to families in Flint and Genesee County. Through decades of service she has addressed critical community needs, including literacy access, civic engagement and neighborhood revitalization.”

Anderson's efforts began in 2015 when she founded the Community Outreach for Family and Youth Center New Beginnings Literacy Program. Over ten years, she has spearheaded tutoring services for both adults and youth. As chairperson of the Genesee County Literacy Coalition, Anderson collaborates with stakeholders to address gaps in services and improve educational access.

Beyond education, Anderson has facilitated community gardens in food deserts, established Little Free Libraries, and supported neighborhood beautification projects. Her work includes various service-learning initiatives such as Get Out the Vote efforts and the Brennan Community Oral History Project.

The Older Adult of the Year Award dates back to 1974. Nominations come from agencies across Michigan like area agencies on aging, senior centers, and places of worship. It is awarded annually on Older Michiganians Day with sponsorship from Consumers Energy.