Each year the Youth and Family Services Department recognizes the outstanding contribution of a senior citizen by awarding the Flash Family Inspirational Award. Established in 2009 by longtime Mercer Island artist, athlete and activist, Phil Flash, the award honors a Mercer Island senior adult who exemplifies the spirit of good sportsmanship or community leadership and who possesses an optimistic attitude and friendly demeanor while acting as a role model to others.

This year’s winner of the Flash Family Inspirational (FFIA) is Fran Call. Call, a former teacher, is an outdoor enthusiast being honored for her work in leading hikes and walks for seniors for the past 13 years.  After retiring, Call began leading three to four mile walks through Seattle and suburban neighborhoods through the Mercer Island Parks and Recreation Department. She began in 1998 with 10 people. The group now has 35 to 40 members who walk each week (rain or shine) on Wednesdays from September through May. Over the past 13 years, more than 200 people have participated in this activity. Currently eight members are in their 80’s, with the remainder in their 60’s and 70’s. Most impressively, Call is not paid. She volunteers her time planning and leading these folks.

Call has led her fellow citizens with knowledge, humor and kindness. She is an especially important leader to the senior population who surely would not have this critical opportunity without her. She truly embodies the spirit of the Flash Family Inspirational Award.

She will be honored as a local hero as she walk with her ‘Solemates’ group in the Summer Celebration! parade this coming Saturday.  She will be formally recognized by Mayor Jim Pearman at the Farmer’s Market at noon on July 17.