Jul 1

Written by: ngreditor
7/1/2008 8:06 PM 

Senior Center board decides to close effective July 1st

Kathy Worre

It was a difficult decision – it was one they had staved off for many months … the NG Senior Center has to close.

Roger Hollis told us, “We’ve been trying to increase patronage,” by special events and enticements, but the average daily participants has been 10-12 a day. The Northeast Nebraska Area Agency on Aging (NNAAA) requires an average of 21-25 per day. “It just wasn’t happening.”

So the NG Senior Citizens’ Center’s board decided it was time. The board consists of Vice President-Margaret Christensen, Secretary-Linda Leeson, Treasurer- Stacia Steensnes, Members- Frances Benson, Rosalena Pospisil, Doris Carpenter, Elinor Boettcher, and Phyllis Gustafson. Roger Hollis is a volunteer worker.

NNAAA provides funding for operation expenses based on the per person participation. “In Newman Grove we have 168 citizens over 60 years old,” it’s just that they are not getting involved at the Senior Center.

Why is that?

“I believe 10% is for need of help in transportation, but 90% is their mindset,” they just do not think they are “old enough.”

So what will happen with the building and the organization? “The Newman Grove Senior Citizens’ Center, Inc. will stay in place. Grace Church will continue to rent it for their needs,” and options of what else will happen with the building still needs to be decided.

There will be an open board meeting on Tuesday, July 8th at 1:30 at the building. Anyone interested is invited to attend.