The Commission on Aging strives to represent the diversity of Clark County. Commission appointments are based on experience and expertise in addressing the needs of seniors.
For additional information about the Commission on Aging, please contact commission staff at 564.397.4913 or email at comm-aging@clark.wa.gov.
Dick Clairmont
First term expires 5/31/26.
Cass Freedland, Vice-Chair
Cass brings three decades of diverse academic, administrative and grant management expertise to the Commission on Aging. She was responsible for the expansion of mutually beneficial community collaborations and educational programs that connected people, ideas and resources together. Dr. Freedland places great emphasis on developing strong bonds between organizations, volunteers and communities. And she champions respectful civic engagement experiences, empowering individuals to more fully participate in informed advocacy. First term expires 5/31/24.
Franklin Johnson, Chair
Franklin has volunteered and served on a variety of community boards working to make his community a better place to live. He serves on the Board of his neighborhood association and has been vice chair and co-chair. He also has provided his time and service to the City of Vancouver’s Neighborhood Transportation Safety Alliance, the CDBG selection committee, and assisted with the selection of the city’s fire and police chief positions. Franklin’s professional career was largely within the US Department of Agriculture and he and his wife currently run an educational consulting services company. Second term expires 5/31/25.
Ken Lund
First term expires 5/31/24.
Donna Mason
First term expires 5/31/26.
Ellen Rogers
First Term expires 5/31/25.
Justin Ross
First term expires 05/31/2026.
Mel Sanchez
As a high school teacher for 35 years, Mel has developed a strong and life long dedication to community. Even though retired for over a decade, Mel continues to contribute to making Clark County a better place, volunteering at the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge and Naturescaping of Southwest Washington's Wildlife Botanical Gardens in Brush Prairie. He will strive to ensure the Aging Community is well represented. First term expires 5/31/25.
Larry Smith
Larry developed an insight and perspective on government policy development and implementation as a former 12-year member of the Vancouver City Council. He also serviced as parks and recreation director for seven years; as an assistant to the city manager for five years; and was a C-TRAN advisory board chair and member. His volunteer activities include participating as a board member for Partners in Careers, community military appreciation Committee, The Historic Trust, Downtown FISH Pantry, Meals on Wheels, and Veteran’s Court Advisory Board. Commissioned as a second lieutenant is the Army, he retired in 1991 as a colonel of infantry. Second term expires 5/31/24.
