GWAAR Advisory Council

Selected for their diverse backgrounds—as well as professional expertise—the following individuals sit on the GWAAR Advisory Council. The Advisory Council’s role is to advise the Board of Directors on the area plan, be engaged in advocacy activities, and be motivated in making a difference in how the aging network responds to the needs of an increasingly older population.

David Denomie, Chairperson, Shawano:  David is a retired professor of communication from Marquette University. He was born in Milwaukee and lived there until retiring, having previously worked for the Milwaukee Public Museum. He served as a volunteer and board member in various community organizations. David is an enrolled member of the Mashiiziibii (Bad River) Ojibwe.

Kathy Gauger, Vice-Chair, Whitehall: Kathy has been a resident of Whitehall for 40 years. She began employment with the Trempealeau County Department of Human Services in 1983. She was also part of a team that wrote a grant to allow Trempealeau County to pilot an ADRC in 1998. Kathy retired January 2017 as supervisor of the ADRC

Doris Bakker, Neillsville: Doris has been a resident of Neillsville for 43 years. Her career as a registered nurse involved both clinical and administration in small rural, and large urban hospitals and high tech home care. She was elected to county board in 2008 and has served on law enforcement, emergency government, health, and Aging thru the Transition to ADRC committee which she chairs. While Doris is retired from active nursing, she has been a city health officer since 2008.

Robert Best, Waukesha: Robert holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Carroll University and a Master's Degree in Public Service with a specialization in Gerontology from Marquette University. He has over 40 years of experience working with older adults in a variety of settings, including assisted living, skilled nursing, senior apartments and community case management. He is currently the Manager of the Kelly Senior Center in Cudahy, and lives with his wife in Waukesha.

Valerie Freres, Oak Creek: Valerie is a Community Development Manager at Platinum Communities, with over 20 years of experience in the senior living industry. Her diverse experience has shaped her commitment to provide quality care and support for seniors. Valerie has dedicated herself to empowering seniors to maintain their independence while providing the resources and services needed to navigate the aging process. She is driven by a strong belief in the importance of treating every individual with dignity and respect, ensuring they can live fulfilling, enriched lives. In Valerie’s spare time she enjoys spending time fishing with her husband Matthew, and curling up with her three fur babies.

Dave Lowe, Janesville: Dave is recognized throughout the aging network for his many years of public service to transportation system development. Now working as an independent consultant, Dave continues to advocate for specialized transit systems to serve the elderly and adults with disabilities.