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About Us

At ACOA, we believe growing older should be celebrated—not feared. We’re honored to serve the seniors who built our communities and to walk alongside them as they continue to thrive.

The Acadia Council on Aging (ACOA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older adults across Acadia Parish. Our mission is simple: to provide supportive services and meaningful activities that promote independence, dignity, and well-being for seniors in our community.

We proudly offer all services at no cost to eligible seniors, thanks to federal, state, and local funding, along with the support of community partners. Whether you're looking for a hot meal, a ride to a medical appointment, a friendly face at the senior center, or help navigating benefits, we’re here for you.

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Message from the Executive Director

At the Acadia Council on Aging, we are committed to serving with compassion, respect, and a deep appreciation for the wisdom of our elders. Every day, our team works to ensure seniors in our parish feel supported, valued, and connected. We believe aging should never mean being forgotten—and here, it never will.

Thank you for trusting us to be a part of your journey.

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-Malita Bartie

Executive Director, Acadia Council on Aging

APCOA 2024-2025 BOARD MEMBERS

Ivan Lewis, President

Deborah Smith, Vice President

Walter Andrus, Secretary

Russell Buchanan, Treasurer

Latikka Charles-McGee, Member

Joseph Soileau, Member

DeBira Broussard, Member

Joanie Schendel, Member

Elizabeth Goodwill, Member

Lindsey Duplechain-Halley, Member

"To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors."
— Tia Walker, The Inspired Caregiver

The History

The Acadia Council on Aging, like others across Louisiana, was established in response to the national Older Americans Act of 1965, which recognized the need for dedicated services to help older adults remain independent and connected to their communities. Many of our programs are federally and state funded and fall under the oversight of agencies such as the Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs. While we are proud to offer all core services free of charge to seniors, these programs are often limited by the availability of grant funding. Donations, sponsorships, and community support are always welcomed and help us expand our reach, enhance our programs, and better meet the growing needs of the aging population in Acadia Parish. Every contribution, big or small, makes a lasting difference.

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For comprehensive information on Councils on Aging and senior services, here are a few websites with additional information: 

  • Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs (GOEA)
    https://goea.louisiana.gov

  • GOEA – Aging and Disability Resource Centers Directory
    https://goea.louisiana.gov/agency-directory/aging-and-disability-resource-centers

  • Louisiana Department of Health – Office of Aging and Adult Services (OAAS)
    https://ldh.la.gov/office-of-aging-and-adult-services

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