NAPLES SENIOR CENTER GAINS APPROVAL

NAPLES SENIOR CENTER GAINS APPROVAL FROM THE BOARD OF COLLIER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS TO BUILD NEW FACILITY

Naples Senior Center, a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive programs and social services for seniors, announced that it has obtained the necessary approval from the Board of Collier County Commissioners to proceed with its new permanent home on Autumn Oaks Lane, just a block south of Immokalee Road.

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.

“In just seven years, we have outgrown our current leased space on Castello Drive,” said Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, President/CEO of Naples Senior Center. “Membership has increased from 80 to more than 1,400 members, and the number of Dementia Respite Groups has increased from one to 11. This state-of-the-art facility will help ensure that our programs and services remain available to any senior who wants to become part of our family.”

The new Naples Senior Center will be centrally located to the largest concentration of members and will be easily accessible from other locations in Collier County. The site also will enable seniors to benefit from a nurturing, natural setting that offers outdoor space for walking, quiet contemplation and low-impact exercise programs such as tai chi.

The 30,000-square-foot facility will be funded through a capital campaign that was launched in 2019 and has been accelerated by a $5-million commitment from local philanthropists Patty and Jay Baker. This lead gift has put the project on a successful track and has inspired others in the community to help the cause. The Bakers are no strangers to philanthropy; their names grace several prominent institutions across Naples.

“The Naples Senior Center serves a critical need for older adults in our community,” said Jay Baker. “We are proud to support their mission of empowering seniors by giving them the tools to address life’s challenges. It is our hope that our contribution will encourage other community-minded individuals to step up in support of this organization.”

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.