Jan Aerie
Jan Aerie is consultant for the Older Adult Ministry Initiative, which advocates for the rights, dignity and humanity of older adults; expands networks with congregations and communities; and offers resources and opportunities for engagement and transformation.
Jan earned a Bachelor’s degree in Community Health Planning, a Master’s degree in Family Counseling, and Certification as a Gerontologist. She has initiated, directed and managed older adult programs for churches, communities, coalitions and counties including: Leadership by the Elderly for Action and Development (LEAD); Interfaith Volunteer Caregiver Programs senior centers and nutrition programs; and corporate training for caregivers. She has authored curricula on aging, trained service providers, and presented hundreds of workshops on aging.
Jan also served as Executive for Mission Education with Global Ministries, for 12 years; was Executive Director of the County Council of Churches in Binghamton, New York; and produced a community lecture series featuring renowned global speakers in Western Massachusetts. She resides with her husband, Cliff, in St Louis, MO.
Getting to know Jan
Why do you feel “called to care” about Disciples health and social service ministry?
From a very young age I felt a deep care for people. This was nurtured in my family with many visits to people’s homes and nursing homes too. Giving and showing care for others is in my DNA and I have practiced it all of my career. I felt called to the work of NBA and am proud to be a part of the caring team!
Who is a hero of yours, and why?
My grandfather, father and dear 97-year-old surrogate grandmother, who have each deeply touched my life at critical times, especially with their stalwart positive modeling of aging and finding joy in life.
If I tried to find you in a supermarket, what aisle would you be in?
The dairy aisle choosing yogurt and milk, which are an important part of my diet.
