Senior center member alleges mismanagement, fundraising shortfalls at Avenue Senior Center

Mildred Jones, a longtime member of the Avenue Senior Center in Abingdon, told the Washington County Board of Supervisors on Feb. 7 that the center suffered mismanagement under director Randy Callahan and described several troubling practices and apparent shortfalls.

Jones alleged the director used multiple business names, changed the organization’s corporate status, ran games of chance and slot-like fundraising, and in one year “cleared $100,000” while giving the seniors’ group only $2,500. She said that in 2023 the center received $3,000 and that Meals on Wheels provided food sourced from local stores. Jones said one member observed alleged theft and that board members were told but “no” investigation followed: “Was there an investigation? No,” she said.

Jones described an episode when she says she was banned from the center and received a certified letter warning she would be arrested if she returned. She said the seniors were forced to move in December and currently meet at West End Baptist Church under a temporary agreement. Jones also credited Audrey Thompson, whom she identified as keeping the program together, and said membership is growing despite the disruption.

The board did not announce any investigation or formal follow-up during the meeting. Several of Jones’s claims concern alleged misconduct by a named private individual; they are presented here as Ms. Jones described them. The meeting record contains no response from Mr. Callahan and no official finding was reported.

The item was presented during the meeting’s special recognitions and presentations portion; the board asked if anyone had immediate questions but did not take action on the allegations at the time of the meeting.