Senior center outlines new programs, grants and volunteer needs

A representative from the senior center described new programming, recent grants and volunteer needs to the Hillsdale County Board of Commissioners.

The center has implemented "Bingo-size," an evidence-based program, and launched Fueling Hope and Driving Compassion initiatives to provide nonemergency medical transportation and financial assistance for complex healthcare challenges; those projects were funded in part by the Hillsdale County Community Foundation. The center is piloting Rendever, a virtual-reality platform aimed at reducing social isolation among seniors with support from the Michigan Association of Senior Centers and Molina.

Other services include free hearing clinics delivered by All Hearing Audiology Services (twice-yearly, including mobile service with free tests for veterans), Secretary of State mobile office hours, Smiles on Wheels oral-care assessments, and TOPS (Take Pounds Off Sensibly) nutrition classes. The center reported a first-quarter surplus of $41,835 and said its functional expense ratio was roughly 89 percent, meaning about 89 cents of every dollar went to program services.

The presenter asked for volunteers for transportation and bingo and noted driver volunteers must be able to obtain a chauffeur’s license; the center said it will cover any related fees. The board and staff asked follow-up questions about AED training, Secretary of State mobile hours and program scheduling; the center agreed to provide follow-up information by email.