Honoring Annette Barca, SHIBA Volunteer

Every year, on Whidbey Island, Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) volunteer their time to save clients thousands of dollars. These volunteers help those in our community understand and navigate Medicare options.

In recognition of the SHIBA Volunteers’ dedication, Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC) created the John Russell, RN, Award. This award commemorates John’s longtime service and is awarded to the volunteer who continues to demonstrate exceptional commitment, selflessness, and dedication.

Congratulations, Annette Barca!

On June 16, the John Russell Award was presented to Annette Barca, a SHIBA volunteer with Island Senior Resources. Tim Smolen and Shannon Skye-Dugovich from OIC presented the award in a small ceremony at Annette’s home in Greenbank. Annette has been a SHIBA volunteer for over 20 years. She and her team are available for consultations year-round.

Island Senior Resources’ SHIBA volunteers assist people through in-person or virtual online appointments, or by phone. If you are eligible for Medicare or would like more information about Medicare or related programs, you can make an appointment by calling Island Senior Resources at 360-321-1600. For more information, go to Insurance Help. SHIBA. – Island Senior Resources. If you are interested in becoming a SHIBA volunteer, please email reception@islandseniorservices.org.

For those on Camano Island, please call 800-562-6900 or go to www.insurance.wa.gov.