SSP Welcomes Six Leaders to
Its Board of Directors
January 20th, 2026
| |
Senior Services Plus is excited to introduce six new members to its Board of Directors, each bringing valuable experience and a shared commitment to our mission of providing opportunities and resources to individuals as they age. These additions expand our Board’s expertise in education, law, community outreach and leadership, strengthening SSP’s ability to meet the growing needs of older adults in its 8 county service area.
Meet our New Board Members
Peggy Funkhouser is pleased to join the Board of Directors of SSP, bringing a lifelong commitment to education, health, and personal enrichment. For 57 years, Peggy has co-owned and directed Toddle Towne Learning Centers and spent 26 years teaching in the Early Childhood Department at Lewis and Clark College, shaping generations of early childhood professionals.
Peggy became connected to Senior Services Plus through its Wellness Center and is passionate about helping older adults stay active and connected. “I’ve experienced firsthand how much better life can be when you take care of your health. I want to help others discover that same joy and confidence, no matter their age,” she says.
Kimberly DeBoe joins the SSP Board of Directors with more than a decade of leadership in strategic talent management, workforce planning and organizational development.
Kimberly currently serves as Recruiting Manager at Staffing Synergies, where she leads recruitment strategy, workforce optimization, and leadership development initiatives across multiple locations.
Her career has spanned key leadership roles in both corporate and nonprofit sectors, spearheading programs to enhance employee engagement, leadership readiness, and diversity. “I’m honored to join the Senior Services Plus Board and contribute to an organization that makes such a lasting impact in our region. Supporting community well-being and advancing opportunities for others has always been at the heart of my work,” she says.
Leonard Berg joins the Board as a retired attorney, whose career focused on representing older adults and individuals with disabilities. In addition to serving older adults, he also worked across several legal areas, including criminal, municipal and family law.
As a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Leonard spent many years working with lobbyists in the crafting of legislation and regulations. “Serving on the board of Senior Services Plus is simply a different way for me to provide advocacy and service to the elderly and other populations served by SSP,” Leonard says.
Bonnie Wall joins the SSP Board of Directors with a focus on finance, marketing and community-driven leadership. As an Olin/United Way Board Fellow, she brings a strong background in biological sciences and strategic operations, with experience managing large-scale research programs and supporting investor readiness in startup environments. “I joined the Senior Services Plus Board because supporting older adults hits close to home for me,” Bonnie says. "This role lets me give back in a way that’s both personal and purposeful - helping to create the kind of care and connection I wish every family could count on.”
Reneé B. Johnson joins the Board as a nonprofit generalist with broad experience in volunteer and arts management, grants management, and training. She currently works with patrons at the Hayner Genealogy and Local History Library in Alton, IL.
Reneé previously served as Executive Director of the Edwardsville Arts Center, where she helped establish the organization’s first facility. She also continues to serve as an Oberlin College Alumni Recruiter.
Dale Blachford brings extensive experience in banking and community leadership. He served as President of Liberty Bank in Alton for 14 years and currently sits on the Illinois Bank Association Board.
Dale has held board positions with several community organizations, including the Riverbend Growth Association, Thrive Metro East, and Beverly Farm. “I am excited to join the SSP Board and be part of an excellent organization serving our community. I am amazed by the number of people SSP touches, and helps them improve their retirement and daily lives. SSP is making a difference in our community,” he says.
SSP is honored to welcome these new board members as it enters its 53rd year serving older adults throughout the Riverbend Area and beyond. Theresa Collins, CEO shares “I am incredibly excited to welcome six new members to our board at Senior Services Plus. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise will be invaluable as we continue to expand our services and impact in the community.”
About Senior Services Plus
Senior Services Plus, Inc. is a 501(c) not-for-profit organization established to help enrich the lives of older adults through programs and services that encourage independent living and wellness. Senior Services Plus, Inc. has been providing services for older adults since 1973. Our mission is to provide opportunities and resources to individuals as they age, with a vision to see everyone aging successfully.
