The sun was shining bright today while the Portage Township YMCA hosted an Over 55 Free Luncheon. Over 60 lunches were provided by Miller’s Merry Manor and laughter could be heard among the various conversations that took place, but lunch wasn’t the only thing being served. The over 55 group received some valuable information from Miller’s, Kim Walters, Community Relations Director. Attendees were offered free lunch gift certificates, as well as, information regarding their respite care services. Respite care, also referred to as Adult Day Care Services, are available daily, weekly, and monthly at Miller’s.
Andrea Starling, YMCA Board Chair, also had good news to share. Coming soon to the Y will be a Helping Hands Board. Anyone may put up their requests for services such as raking leaves & mowing lawns. In return, community and Y members can reach out to lend that helping hand by volunteering to complete the requested service. “Part of the Y’s reason for being, is to strengthen community,” said Starling. “Helping out your neighbor might seem old-fashioned, but kindness goes a long way and it is a need in our aging community.”
Recently, Shannon Burhans, Y President & CEO, has empowered a group of young men who frequently play basketball within the facility to implement rules and policies that they must all abide by. The Youth Advisory Council, as they are called, will be presenting their proposal to the Y’s Board of Directors at Thursday’s monthly board meeting for a teen lock-in and at that time, Starling plans to connect them with the upcoming Helping Hands Program.
The Y is seeking volunteers to serve on a committee responsible for the planning and organizing of future events, trips, and luncheons for the over 55 group. Y member, former Credit Union CEO, and cancer survivor, Odessa Collins, has graciously stepped up to the plate to serve as the chair on the over 55 planning committee. “Our goal is to have a year-long list of trips, outings, and luncheons planned by October 2018 for 2019. We are looking to explore options such as extended day & over-night trips.” Anyone wishing to assist with the planning or fundraising efforts to offset the cost of these trips should contact the Y at (219) 762-9622.
Next month, Meals on Wheels will provide free lunch to those 55 and over. Additional information and sign-ups for this free event will be available in the coming weeks.