Meet your State Director for AARP Illinois

AARP in Your State: Illinois

Source: AARP.org | April 1, 2003

Ralph Yaniz's first year as the State Director for AARP has included a volatile legislative session and continued outreach to the community. In year two, Yaniz will help his state welcome its 3rd Triumph Classic 50+ swim.bike.run in August, the AARP National Event in September.

He manages two offices, leads a staff of 10 in the work of AARP Illinois and with the advisement of the State President and Executive Council charts the course for the state. AARP, as the leading organization representing people 50 and older, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all as we age. We lead positive social change and deliver value to all members.

"Staff and volunteers continue to make it happen," Yaniz said. "As we continue to work together with our headquarters in Washington DC we will reflect the heart and soul of AARP."

Before coming to AARP, Yaniz was Executive Director of the Berwyn Cicero Council on Aging (BCCOA), which helps adults over 60 continue living independently-with the highest quality of life possible. BCCOA is a multi-purpose senior service organization providing programs through federal, state and local funding.

Previously, he enjoyed a long career working in community mental health and employee assistance programs. As a program director at the community level, he was instrumental in achieving national accreditation for major programs in the community that served a chronically ill population. His employee assistance work included functioning as an account manager and human resource consultant, providing training to managers, supervisors and employees on a variety of topics and issues.

Yaniz holds bachelors and masters degrees in Psychology from Loyola University of Chicago and is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois. He also holds an MBA from Regis University in Denver, CO.

Yaniz is a life-long Illinois resident. He is also a member of Rotary. He and his wife, Patricia, live in Glenview, Illinois with their three children.

Contact Yaniz at aarpil@aarp.org or (312) 458-3600.