Partnerships are Key

If you were to visit the Senior Center, you would most definitely encounter a group of vital and vibrant individuals engaged in programs ranging from cardio drumming to lunch and learns on estate planning, a healthy cooking demonstration, chair yoga and trivia − to name a few. Essential social services such as Meals-On-Wheels (MOW) and transportation are available to residents age 60 or older. Individuals as young as 55 can participate in programs and events. The combination of programs and services generates a variety of opportunities to reduce social isolation, engage in healthy living practices and allow adults to live independently in their homes longer. 

Health and wellness are core tenets of programming. In addition to seven fitness classes, a partnership with Central State University Extension, brought evidence-based programs Eat Smart, Move More and Diabetes Empowerment to the center. To kick-off Healthy Aging Month, the office held its first annual health fair in partnership with Mercy Health and North Ridgeville Heart & Sole with more than 35 vendors in attendance. Throughout the month, expanded opportunities for individuals to focus on the pillars of healthy aging were offered. Participants found their sense of adventure through walking tours of Cleveland neighborhoods and trying out the disc golf course in South Central Park. Activities Coordinator Stacey Allen implemented guided nature walks at various locations during warm weather months, an offering that is unique to the North Ridgeville Senior Center. 

On the “fun” side of the ledger, numerous National Days are recognized, such as National Ice Cream Sundae Day, National Hamburger Day and National Grilled Cheese Day. In 2023, National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day culminated in a chocolate chip cookie bake-off. The annual June carnival was a success and the center even held its first annual turkey bowling event, which will be repeated this year. 

Partnerships are a critical component of the center’s ability to offer a vast array of programming. Through a partnership with resident volunteers from the Community Garden, 1,122 pounds of fresh produce was donated in 2023, which in turn was used in meals served at the senior center, distributed to MOW clients and senior center participants, increasing access to fresh, local produce. Through AARP, the office facilitated free tax preparation services, resulting in 143 returns filed. The office continues to partner with North Ridgeville Heart & Sole, the North Ridgeville City Schools, Lorain County Public Library North Ridgeville Branch, the Chamber of Commerce, Lorain County Public Health and various civic groups that provide support in the form of donations and sponsorships.

If you would like to know more about the center or get involved, please call our office at 440-490-2056, visit our webpage at www.nridgeville.org/SeniorCenter or follow our office on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NorthRidgevilleSeniorCenter.