New Senior Center nearing completion

Janice McIntosh, executive director of the Carson City Senior Citizens Center, talked recently about the center's new expansion and services available to the community's residents.

When is the expansion project at the center due to be completed?

McIntosh: June 27, 2004

What was the main reason for the expansion?

McIntosh: The main reason for the expansion was because we didn't presently have enough space for all of the meetings and activities for the seniors now or in the future.

How does the expansion better benefit the community?

McIntosh: We will have adequate space for senior needs as well as for community requirements. The space will afford us the ability to provide more and better services and activities to enrich the lives of Carson City senior citizens and their families.

Why should our senior community care about the center?

McIntosh: Our community should care about the center because it provides very valuable services to the community. Many seniors think of the senior center as their home or family.

It is a place where they can get help, keep active, make friends, have fun, share grief and receive a delicious meal. Keeping people active helps them to remain healthy which in turn reduces overall health costs. It also makes our community a better place to live.

How much input was received from the seniors for the expansion?

McIntosh: A building expansion committee was formed over four years ago. It was made up mostly of seniors, staff, architects, city staff, senior center Governing Board members, etc.

The seniors gave a tremendous amount of input on all aspects of the development of the senior center. We posted expansion schematics as they were available so everyone that came to the center could comment. It has turned out to be a great team and we believe the end product will be fantastic!

How was the expansion paid for?

McIntosh: The expansion was primarily paid for with property taxes and general funds the city supervisors awarded to us on April 1. We also received a Sierra Pacific energy grant and two Community Development Block Grants. The seniors contributed $100,000 that was saved over many years.

What services (programs) are available to the seniors?

McIntosh: Bunco, cards, crafts/painting, exercise classes, gift shop, health screening and general information, income tax assistance, library, line dance, lapidary; meal (noon), Medicare, Medicaid, social security info, pool, puzzles, referral services, singing and theatrical, social work assistance, tai chi, thrift shop, trips and tours, TV, and volunteer opportunities. Some new services will be adult day care and computer classes.

Will an open house be held for the community?

McIntosh: Yes. It will be July 1, and I hope the community comes to see this wonderful addition to the community.

How many seniors visit the center on a weekly basis?

McIntosh: I would estimate 300-500 a week.