LEWISTON—SeniorsPlus announced today that Betsy Sawyer-Manter, President and CEO, will retire after 17 years leading the organization. Her last day will be October 30, 2026.
Under Sawyer-Manter’s leadership, SeniorsPlus grew its reach and deepened its role as a trusted resource for older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers in western Maine. Among her most visible accomplishments is the Encompass Center, which expanded the organization’s capacity for workforce development, wellness programming, and community connection. By 2021, the agency’s annual budget had grown from $19 million to $34 million under her leadership. She also broadened its services, adding the Veterans Independence Program, Dementia Capable Maine, Money Minders, and fiscal intermediary services. A founding member of the Maine Council on Aging, she testified before the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging in 2020 on combating social isolation among older adults. In 2021, the LA Metro Chamber honored her with its Theresa Samson Women’s Business Leadership Award.
“For 17 years, Betsy has led SeniorsPlus with vision, heart, and an unwavering commitment to older adults and people with disabilities across our region,” said Dustin Ward, Chair of the SeniorsPlus Board of Directors. “She leaves an organization that is strong and well positioned for the future, and the Board is confident that Kristin Overton will build on the remarkable foundation Betsy created.”
“It has been the privilege of my career to work alongside such a dedicated staff, board, and community. I am proud of what we have built together, and I know SeniorsPlus is well positioned for its next chapter,” said Sawyer-Manter.
The SeniorsPlus Board of Directors has named Kristin Overton as the organization’s next Chief Executive Officer, effective November 2, 2026. Overton most recently served as Executive Director of SKILLS, Inc., and brings deep experience in Maine’s aging and disability networks, including 16 years at Spectrum Generations, the last eight as Chief Operating Officer. Additional information about Overton will be shared in the coming weeks.
Sawyer-Manter’s retirement will be celebrated at a private gathering of friends, partners, and colleagues on October 22.
About SeniorsPlus
Since 1972, SeniorsPlus has been the designated Area Agency on Aging for Western Maine, serving Androscoggin, Franklin, and Oxford counties, and it provides home care coordination statewide. Its mission is to enrich the lives of older people and adults with disabilities, their families and communities, and to support them to make informed choices. As a nonprofit, SeniorsPlus offers unbiased, confidential guidance and services including information and assistance, Medicare counseling, caregiver support, health and wellness education, and Meals on Wheels. SeniorsPlus is headquartered at 8 Falcon Road in Lewiston, with offices in Norway and Wilton. Learn more at seniorsplus.org or call 207-795-4010.
Ribbon cutting photo by Haley Ward, Inc.