VOLUNTEER PROFILE

Alan Harder

Insurance Volunteer, Social Security

Alan is a 34-year veteran of the Social Security Administration (SSA). Before his retirement at the end of 2006, he worked in Social Security district offices as a Claims Representative, Supervisor, Technical Expert and Area Systems Coordinator. He spent the last two years of his career teaching SSA employees how to use their new Electronic Disability Claims process and installing the equipment they use to make it work.

Alan’s wife was diagnosed with PAH in October 2005. She continued to work for another 6 months as a high school English teacher, but was forced to stop because of her illness in April 2006. Alan retired at the end of 2006 to spend more time with her, and to pursue a 2nd career as a lay pastor. Alan and his wife have two adult children, both married, and two granddaughters.

Alan got a very good view "from the other side of the desk" as his wife's Social Security claim was processed. Social Security required her claim to be filed in a distant office where Alan wasn’t known, and he was not permitted to represent her or intervene in her behalf as the claim was evaluated.

Alan has played an active role in PHA's efforts to update the SSA's Listing of Impairments.