Dane Co. Exec. Falk: New Manager Hired at Dane County Area Agency on Aging

For more information, contact:
Lynn Green, Dane County Human Services, (608) 242-6469
Lesley Sillaman, (608) 267-8823

A new director has been hired to guide the services to seniors offered by Dane County, County Executive Kathleen Falk announced today. Barbara Thoni, who is currently the Director of Membership Development and Services for the Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups (CWAG), will begin her duties as manager of the Area Agency on Aging of Dane County July 25th. “Barb is passionate about older people and is excited about her new position and the opportunities it provides,” said Falk.

Thoni comes to Dane County with more than 30 years of experience with programs that serve older adults. She worked at the Barron County Office on Aging from 1975-1991. She has worked at CWAG since then. Thoni will be responsible for $4.0 million in Aging Services. The Area Agency on Aging provides services to thousands of Dane County’s older citizens; these services include case management, caregiver support, elder abuse investigations and transportation. Nutrition is its largest program, offering over 265,000 congregate and home delivered meals annually.

“Dane County has the best services for seniors in Wisconsin and we’re excited to have someone of Barb’s caliber to help maintain and enhance our program,” said Falk. Thoni replaces Rita Odegaard who retired this spring.