For Immediate Release
May 15, 2017        
Contact: Abby Matienzo, Communications Manager
       703-942-5711 #230

Attorney Receives National Community Service Award for Advocacy in Elder Law

Washington, DC — The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) is proud to announce the winner of the 2017 Powley Elder Law Award: Patricia Sitchler, CELA, of La Vernia, Tex. This award is presented annually to a NAELA member who is recognized in his or her community as a leader in promoting a greater understanding of the rights and needs of the elderly and people with special needs, and of how elder law attorneys advocate for those rights. 

The award was established in the memory of Wes and Helen Powley, grandparents of NAELA member Timothy L. Takacs, of Hendersonville, Tenn. Both Wes and Helen were active in civic affairs for all of their lives, and Wes practiced dentistry well into his 80s. The award is funded by a cash grant from the Takacs family to a nonprofit organization chosen by the Powley Award recipient.

As part of her recognition, Sitchler can direct $1,000 from the Takacs family to charities providing services to people with disabilities. She has chosen to have $1,000 awarded to Mobile Loaves & Fishes, Inc., for the benefit of Genesis Gardens at the Community First! Village, Austin, Tex.

About NAELA
Members of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) are attorneys who are experienced and trained in working with the legal problems of aging Americans and individuals of all ages with disabilities. Established in 1987, NAELA is a non-profit association that assists lawyers, bar organizations, and others. The mission of NAELA is to establish NAELA members as the premier providers of legal advocacy, guidance, and services to enhance the lives of people with special needs and people as they age. NAELA currently has members across the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit NAELA.org.

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