NAPLES SENIOR CENTER AWARDED MOORINGS PARK FOUNDATION GRANT

NAPLES SENIOR CENTER AWARDED MOORINGS PARK FOUNDATION GRANT FOR CONNECTING CAREGIVERS SUPPORT PROGRAM

Naples Senior Center, a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive programs and social services for seniors, has been awarded a $75,000 grant from Moorings Park Foundation. These funds will be used for a multi-faceted support program for caregivers of family members with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia to connect with one another, receive group support, socialization and education.

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

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s and other dementia related disorders can be a long, stressful and intensely emotional journey. Caregiving can literally seem like a thankless task. The burden of caregiving can put a person at increased risk for significant health problems and many dementia caregivers say they experience depression, high levels of stress or burnout. Having help and support along the way is not a luxury; it is a necessity.

“We are grateful to Moorings Park Foundation for their continued support of seniors in our community,” said Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, President/CEO of Naples Senior Center. “The Connecting Caregivers Support Program will expand upon current dementia services to create a multi-faceted program to support and empower caregivers. By providing the resources, education and social engagement, caregivers won’t have to do it all alone.”

Moorings Park Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(C)(3) organization that receives tax deductible contributions to support selected non-profit agencies with a primary focus on providing services to the elderly, including affordable housing. Its Grants Committee of donors carefully reviews all applications, giving priority to projects they deem will have the greatest potential impact on the local senior population ages 65 and up.

The Naples Senior Center enriches the lives of those 60 years of age and older by providing comprehensive programs and social services that support and strengthen individuals and their families, often at times of vulnerability and crisis. Since the COVID-19 outbreak in mid-March, the center has been meeting seniors needs virtually.

All programs and services are provided by licensed and credentialed professionals. These include Structured Dementia Respite Support; Geriatric Case Management and Senior Outreach Programs; and Emotional Support Services 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 200 trained and vetted volunteers. Among the programs are a weekly “Lunch and More;” classes in art, music and film; brain fitness and educational seminars; courses in computer science; physical well-being; and interest groups. The center serves everyone regardless of backgrounds and beliefs.

For additional information on the Naples Senior Center and its comprehensive programs and social services for area seniors and their families, visit www.NaplesSeniorCenter.org.