BAKER SENIOR CENTER NAPLES WELCOMES NEW BOARD TRUSTEE

                               BAKER SENIOR CENTER NAPLES WELCOMES LOCAL COMMUNITY LEADER                        TO ITS BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Baker Senior Center Naples announced the appointment of Matthew R. Holliday, Director of Government Relations for Naples Comprehensive Health (NCH), to its Board of Trustees. In this role, he will help support the non-profit in its mission to provide comprehensive programs and social services for older adults and their families.

“We are delighted to welcome Matthew to our Board of professional business and community leaders,” said Dr. Emily Ptaszek, President & CEO of Baker Senior Center Naples. “His unique experience in healthcare and government relations will be beneficial as we continue to grow and serve the expanding needs of older adults in our community.”

Holliday is an accomplished leader with more than 24 years of lobbying/legislative and fundraising experience. In his current position with NCH, he manages all aspects of the hospital government relations, key relationships and community-focused outreach in the governmental field. He also advises the hospital CEO, senior leaders and Board members on proposed legislative and regulatory issues, and manages special projects as requested.

Prior to joining NCH, Holliday was Director of Development for Healthcare Network. Before that, he was Director, Government Affairs for Florida SouthWestern State College and a Senior Legislative Aide in the Florida House of Representatives. A U.S. Air Force veteran, he earned his bachelor’s degree in Social Science from Florida State University.

Holliday is actively involved in the community as an advocacy volunteer for Baker Senior Center Naples as well as Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce and Project Help.

Baker Senior Center Naples is the only human services agency of its kind, providing “one-stop shop” services addressing the emotional and social needs of older adults in Collier and southern Lee counties. Since opening its doors in 2014, the agency has seen a surge in the depth and scope of need for comprehensive senior services in this region.

All programs and services are provided by licensed and credentialed professionals. These include the Brookdale Cognitive Health Center, which provides Dementia Respite Groups and Caregiver Support; Case Management and Outreach Programs; and Mental Health Counseling as well as a “choice” Food Pantry.

An average of 40 different social, educational and wellness programs also are offered each week thanks to a dedicated corps of more than 300 trained and vetted volunteers. Among these social programs are classes in art, music and film; brain fitness and educational seminars; courses in technology and computer science; physical well-being; and interest groups. The center serves everyone regardless of backgrounds and beliefs.

For additional information on Baker Senior Center Naples and its comprehensive programs and social services for older adults, visit www.bakerseniorcenternaples.org.