Washington Area Senior Center offers socialization, activities for older adults
Editor’s note: This article is a part of Helping the Helpers, our annual series to raise awareness for nonprofits throughout the area.
About one-fifth of the people in Washington, Greene and Fayette counties are 65 or older, so ensuring there are opportunities to stay social and active is particularly important in the area.
Washington Area Senior Center (WASC) wants to meet that need, said Lynne Cowden, co-director of the center.
“We have Silver Sneakers (an exercise program for seniors) twice per week, and we also offer On the Move,” Cowden said.
The latter, offered through the University of Pittsburgh, focuses on low-impact exercise with modifications for those who need it.
Workers at WASC also want to make sure older adults have fresh food and hot meals.
Lunch is offered every day from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. by registration, with a suggested donation of $2.
In addition to staying active and eating healthy, the senior center offers a full slate of activities.
“We want our seniors to stay and socialize,” Cowden said. “Sometimes we do crafts, play bingo or simply sit and talk, but the goal is to keep our seniors engaged and active,”
In addition, WASC offers a card club, Bible study, dartball and euchre. They also offer occasional trips to local events and attractions.
WASC recently held its largest annual fundraiser of the year, Spud Night, where supporters received a baked potato with toppings of their choice. Attendees also played games and put their name in a drawing for one of the105 donated raffle baskets.
“Over the years, we have had a great turnout for this event, and we’re grateful for the support we receive from the community, businesses and individuals,” Cowden said.
As a nonprofit, WASC is always in need of community assistance. Donations can be made on the website, but the center can use other support as well, including donations of items such as craft supplies, volunteers, and those who’d like to join the nonprofit’s board of directors.
Cowden said they regularly look for class instructors, kitchen workers and people who can help with income tax preparation.
Members must be 60 or older; however, individuals do not have to be a member to take part in senior center activities.
Visit https://washpaseniors.org/ for more information.