After nearly a quarter century of service, John W. Kinner retired as chief executive officer of the Health Association of Niagara County, Inc., effective July 31.
Since joining HANCI in August 2000, Kinner guided the organization’s evolution into a wellness agency focusing on home health care and volunteerism. The Volunteer Center at HANCI, which operates AmeriCorps Senior programs such as Foster Grandparent, Senior Companion, and RSVP, has grown to 700 volunteers who deliver more than 100,000 volunteer hours a year across Niagara County.
Kinner brought the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) model to the Niagara region, an initiative to help seniors remain in their homes with comprehensive medical and social support. Complete Senior Care – PACE serves 150 individuals from its facility in Niagara Falls.
Kinner began his 40-year career in the non-profit sector as an education coordinator for Opportunities Unlimited of Niagara before transitioning to the United Way of Niagara, where he served as the vice president from 1985 to 2000 and oversaw the annual United Way campaign.
In 2008, Kinner received Niagara University’s prestigious Caritas Medal, which honors leaders who exemplify the charity of St. Vincent de Paul. He’s also a past recipient of the Public Relations Society of America Buffalo Niagara Chapter’s Outstanding Executive Award, the Network in Aging of Western New York Dr. Evan Calkins Meritorious Service Award, the Niagara University College of Education Community Leadership Award, and the Pine Avenue Business Association’s Community Service Award.
“It’s been a genuine honor and pleasure to serve as the CEO of HANCI for 25 years,” Kinner said. “During my time here, and throughout my career, I’ve been blessed to do work that I have truly enjoyed — work that has made a difference in our community — surrounded by so many wonderful, talented and dedicated people.”
HANCI anticipates naming Kinner’s successor soon.