Happenings at Baker Senior Center

Dr. Jaclynn Faffer President/ CEO

While April showers may bring May flowers, for me, April always means Passover preparations (unless, of course, the holiday is “early” and happens in March!). At Baker Senior Center Naples (BSCN), April and Passover are synonymous with our longstanding “Seder in a Box” program. We purchase the staples of Passover, place them in a festive container along with a Publix gift card, and our Geriatric Case Management staff deliver the bags to our Holocaust survivors and case management clients. As a non-sectarian organization, we also deliver “Easter in a Basket” gifts to our case management clients who celebrate Easter. These are important programs that leave everyone, staff and recipients alike, with a smile!

Baker Senior Center Naples has had some interesting programs recently. In February, we had 90 attendees at a halfday conference for caregivers and others concerned about dementia. Dr. Ron Garry, Naples concierge gerontologist, gave the keynote address about Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD), followed by a lively Q&A. After Dr. Garry’s presentation, a panel comprised of a caregiver of a loved one in our Brookdale Cognitive Health Program, BSCN Chief Clinical Officer and an expert in different types of facilities for someone with ADRD shared valuable information about their respective areas of expertise. Evaluations were 100% positive with a request for a full-day conference next year.

March has been a busy month, as well. On March 19, we installed Karen Heithoff as BSCN’s new Board Chair. Heithoff has extensive board experience here in Naples and in her hometown of Minneapolis. She follows Prentiss Higgins, who steps down after three years at the helm.

As “season” begins to draw to a close, I would like to remind our friends who leave town for the summer to remember Baker Senior Center Naples’ Food Pantry when they clean out their pantries. We welcome canned and boxed goods, as well as paper and hygiene products for seniors who use the pantry.

On behalf of Baker Senior Center Naples, I wish everyone a sweet Passover.