The Stillaguamish Senior center (SSC) is a
non-profit corporation organized by North
Snohomish County citizens in 1970. Its mission
is to provide services to all seniors that
enhance the quality of life, limit isolation
and prevent a need for institutionalization.
An original sponsor of the organization was
the Cascade Valley Hospital (CVH) board of
directors who hoped to reduce the need for
medicare hospitalization.
The Center met at Pioneer Hall, was financed by
a small federal grant and was managed by volunteers.
It became apparent that a larger site was needed and
in 1972 the site of the Fircrest Motel was purchased
on Smokey Point Boulevard. The financing came from
numerous fund raisers and a $55,000 loan from three
local banks which was cosigned by CVH board of directors.
Many local businesses donated materials and local seniors
and others provided labor to build the present main
building. Over the next few years grants were obtained
to build two additional buildings, funds were raised to
hire a small staff, and additional property was acquired
including an adjacent thrift store. Throughout this period
of growth, community support and hundreds of volunteer hours
have made the center a valuable community asset.
Through the years the senior center has built three
HUD buildings and one Rural Development, therefore,
we have 154 units of low-income senior housing on our
campus. Financing for these buildings comes from
federal, state, and county agencies with mortgages
paid by rents and rent subsidies. SSC staff manages
and maintains these facilities and provides social
services to the residents.
Currently services and programs being provided at the
center include: Health and Wellness services such as
diabetes support group, foot clinic, blood pressure
screening, Caregiver Support groups, Outreach services,
fitness activities, Food Bank, surplus food room and a
four day meal site. Recreational activities; classes,
day trips and extended trips, public bingo, pinochle,
bridge, wei bowling, movies, pool playing, Friday
entertainment; etc. Currently the center has 4,123
participants and 230 volunteers. These volunteers work
with staff in many areas of the center. We have a 15
member Board of Directors and a 21 member Advisory Council.
Funding for these activities and services come from a
variety of sources; Snohomish County, City of Arlington,
United Way. We also self-generate funds through our
Thrift Store, Hall Rentals, Public Bingo games,
fundraising, grants and donors.
If you have not been to the Stillaguamish Senior Center
and are in our area be sure to stop in for a tour and visit.
|
|
|
|
