MEO Dispatcher Doreen Kepano (left) and CEO Debbie Cabebe pose for a photo Friday at the Transportation baseyard. Kepano retired after 36 years with the nonprofit agency.

WAILUKU — Maui Economic Opportunity Dispatcher Doreen Kepano sent her last MEO bus to pick up a rider on Friday, Nov. 17, before riding off to retirement and ending a 36-year career with the nonprofit organization.

Doreen joined the 58-year-old Community Action Agency on Aug. 27, 1987. Through the years, she has driven buses, worked in the main office and dispatched drivers.

The most enjoyable part of her job was engaging with her fellow workers and clients, Doreen said. She will be taking off her headset to work her land and grow taro.

Doreen is another example of the many staffers who join MEO and retire after decades with the agency. MEO has an average length of service of six years — way higher than the two-year average for nonprofits.

MEO currently is looking for drivers and dispatchers in the Transportation Department. Go to the MEO website at www.meoinc.org and click on the “Careers” tab or call (808) 243-4310.