In the mentoring program, seniors assist kids who come to play games, read, and do crafts, while parents get a chance to observe and brush up on their own mentoring skills. There's also community involvement at the center, groups that use the building, such as a karate group, a fine arts club that meets once a month to work on projects and a community breakfast group that serves breakfast to children on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The program is in its first year, serviced by different community groups and may be expanded in the future. Other community involvement for which the center is grateful includes bus transportation provided by Dick's Supermarket. Seniors are picked up at Twining Valley, Churchhill Woods and Cedar Green Apartments.
Riders can go about their business and catch a ride home on another round.
The bus averages about 90 riders per week. The bus program has been going on for six years, paid for by Dick's Supermarket, with no charge to seniors. Looking to the future, Derrickson said she believes substantial changes will be needed to provide programs for the baby boomers who are entering their senior years. Higher quality classes will be needed. Derrickson also noted that people are staying more active.