Jul 27, 2024 By Kristin Emery 3 min read

Ask Washington Area Senior Center Executive Director Barbara Miller to describe her workplace, and she will tell you it’s a vital part of the community.

“I would describe it as a place for seniors to get socialization, education, nutrition,” says Miller, who started in her role about two-and-a-half years ago. “Many of the seniors who come here live alone. We know that socialization and the nutrition aspect, sharing a meal with somebody is one of the biggest things about keeping people alive and well and entertained and to feel like they’re part of something. When people live alone, they might eat a bowl of soup, but they don’t eat a meal.”

Providing nutritional meals and some company to dine with is only part of the center’s mission and the reason Washington Area Senior Center is this month’s recipient of the Driven By Hope Award sponsored by the Washington Auto Mall.

“I feel like my job is to keep people wanting to come here,” says Miller. “And also drawing on other people who have never been to a senior center so that they come in the doors and see what we’re doing. Isolation can be very dangerous to seniors.”

Whether it’s putting together a day trip to the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum or to see exhibits in Pittsburgh or enjoy a Gateway Clipper cruise, the center is buzzing with activity.

“We’ve tried to do a lot of things this year because that seems to be the No. 1 thing – They want to get out. They want to do stuff; they want to be a part of living.”

Miller also incorporates educational programming throughout the schedule, including hosting guests for educational talks on topics like avoiding scams that target senior citizens and the importance of proper nutrition and medication dosing.

“I think that giving people hope, you know, when you’ve got something to look forward to … life is so much more exciting.”

Transportation can be a challenge as people age, but Freedom Transit will take seniors to the center at 69 West Maiden St. in the city for free. Once there, however, there’s another need: an elevator so everyone can access the entire building. Miller says, so far, the cost of installing one has been prohibitive.

“Obviously we always need money. We have a big fundraiser every year called Spud Night, and it’s Oct. 12th this year. We have a goal of making $10,000 this year.” The first year they held the event, it only brought in $800 but has grown since.

Membership for seniors is $5 per year. From hosting craft get togethers, Bible study or exercise classes that draw participants between the ages of 60 and 97, Miller says she loves this important part of the community.

“It’s really worthwhile work,” she adds. “When you think about the fact there are going to be something like 68 million seniors in the next few years, keeping them healthy, keeping them active. This affords people that ability to get here to participate.”

The nonprofit operates on donations, grants and funding from the Local Share Account gaming revenue along with support from the Washington County Community Foundation.

Spud Night will be held Oct. 12 at the Alpine Club in Washington. Tickets are $10 and include a large baked potato and all of the toppings, salad and dessert. Games and a 50/50 raffle are also part of the evening.

To donate or volunteer, contact the Washington Area Senior Center at (724) 222 8566 or visit washpaseniors.org.