Naples Senior Center Receives Grant

NAPLES SENIOR CENTER EARNS SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COMMUNITY
FOUNDATION GRANT FOR DEMENTIA RESPITE SUPPORT PROGRAM

Dr Jaclynn Faffer

Naples Senior Center, a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive programs and social services for seniors, has been awarded a $41,848 grant from the Southwest Florida Community Foundation. This renewal of funding for 2021 will be used to support its Dementia Respite Support program for local seniors.

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.

The center’s Dementia Respite Support program is a weekly, four-hour program which offers a safe and stimulating environment providing activities for individuals with early to mid-stage dementia. Since launching the program several years ago, the number of groups participating within the program has grown to 10 in Naples and Marco Island.

“The need for older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias (ADRD) and their caregivers is tremendous and continues to increase,” said Dr. Jaclynn
Faffer, President/CEO of Naples Senior Center. “This critical funding will help ensure that we can continue to serve this most vulnerable population in our local community.”

Founded in 1976, the Southwest Florida Community Foundation cultivates regional change for the common good through collective leadership, social innovation, and
philanthropy to address the evolving needs in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties. The Foundation partners with individuals, families and corporations who have
created over 40 philanthropic funds. With assets of over $134 million, it has provided $83.7 million in grants and scholarships to the communities it serves since inception.

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