The Lake City-Northgate Senior Center Project (LCNSCP) has been working on outdoor and virtual programming to keep older adults active and engaged during COVID-19.
Currently, they send out weekly newsletter packets about updates from staff, calendar info, virtual classes, and other fun goodies. These packets are helping older adults remain connected to their senior center and gives them an avenue to reach out for assistance or to pass along some kind comments. Emily Billow, the Program and Volunteer Coordinator, shares members’ sentiments. “I have participants tell me that the best part of their week is being able to hear other participants’ voices on the phone while playing bingo and how much they love the opportunity to check in with one another.”
In addition, Vedrana Durakovic, Program Manager, has this to say:
“We have been in touch with many or most of our members. Quite a few are feeling lonely or isolated, and some are ready to come back to the center. Others have expressed that they would not be ready to come back before a vaccine. But everyone has been appreciative of the activities, support, social work, calls, and resources we are still offering.”
For the foreseeable future of the LCNSCP, its staff, volunteers, and members are continuing to bring life to the virtual center through regular virtual social interactions, support, and delivery of vital services. Until Washington enters Phase 4, most programs will remain temporarily on hold. As for the potentional for limited indoor programming, which usually operated out of the Lake City Community Center, we shall see what the future brings soon enough.
To stay up to date with the Lake City Seniors at the Lake City-Northgate Senior Center Project, we recommend following their Facebook page.