SALISBURY — Heather Kincel has been hired by the Rufty-Holmes Senior Center Board of Directors as the new executive director, effective Jan. 1, 2024. She will become the third director in the 35-year history of the non-profit organization. Kincel was selected out of 16 applicants interviewed.  

She comes from Habitat for Humanity Cabarrus County as resource development director and previously served as director of corporate relations and Marketing with Cabarrus Healthcare Foundation. Kincel helped create a critical home repair program for aging adults in Cabarrus County, ensuring older adults can age in place in a safe home. 

Kincel is active in her community as an advisor for Leadership Cabarrus, Cabarrus Chamber of Commerce, member of the Cabarrus County Homeless Task Force and the Rotary Club. 

“I am inspired by Rufty-Holmes Senior Center’s commitment to aging adults,” Kincel said of her new role. “It will be an honor to contribute my skills and passion towards the Center’s mission.” 

Kincel will replace current Director, Nan Buehrer, who is moving into a part-time special projects’ role for the center. 

Rufty-Holmes Senior Center is a nationally certified senior center and was recently awarded the North Carolina Ann Johnson Senior Center of the Year award for service excellence. 

Rufty-Holmes Senior Center is a vital connection in Rowan County to aging well. The center offers programs and services to engage in creating healthy mind, body and community connections. It offers options including a local fitness center, dining sites, activities and travel, support groups and a place to make friends.

Outreach services include family caregiver support, transportation, Medicare insurance counseling and tax assistance.

More than 3,000 Rowan County older adults love participate and are waiting to welcome you too. Rufty-Holmes Senior Center is open on Monday 8 a.m.-8 p.m., and Tuesday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 

The center is at 1120 S. MLK Jr. Ave. in Salisbury. Phone is 704-216-7714.

Read the monthly newsletter to learn of the many programs and groups to get involved in. Check it out at www.ruftyholmes.org or pick up a newsletter under the carport anytime.