National Senior Center Month
Every September, the National Council on Aging (NCOA) and the National Institute of Senior Centers (NISC) celebrate National Senior Center Month. Every day, senior centers give aging Americans a place they can gather, find events, and improve their fitness and health. Many are supported through a mix of federal and state funding, generous donations from fellow members of the community, and the aid of volunteers.
The theme for this year’s National Senior Center Month is “Strengthening Community Connections,” chosen to highlight how important senior centers are to the health and well-being of each community by providing support and opportunities to older adults.
If you have not participated in programs at Bay Ridge Center or Bay Ridge Connects, stop by in September to learn more about the activities, programs, classes, and meals offered. If you’ve joined us virtually, maybe September is a good time to make an in-person visit to one of our locations. If you are not a member yet, please stop by or call the office at 718-748-0650 to find out more about becoming a member.
The History of National Senior Center Month
The origin of National Senior Center Month can be found in National Senior Center Week, which was first celebrated annually in May 1979. The concept of celebrating senior centers nationally gained wide support through organizations like the National Council on Aging, the U.S. Conference of Mayors Aging Task Force, and the full Senate and House Select Committee on Aging. In 1985, President Ronald Reagan signed the first Senior Center Week Presidential Proclamation with the support of the National Institute of Senior Centers (NISC).
By 2007, the idea behind National Senior Center Week became so popular that NISC expanded the celebration of senior centers to an entire month. The NISC designated each September to be the month of celebration, allowing for more time for events.
Get Involved!
It’s easy to celebrate National Senior Center Month. Just join a program, have lunch, or stop by and check out Bay Ridge Center or Bay Ridge Connects. See our calendar and find a program that interests you or one you have not tried before. Read our newsletter to see what’s been going on, or take it a step further by volunteering. If you have an idea for or want to offer a program, contact David Dring at ddring@bayridgecenter.org.
As you’re celebrating, there are a few special days in September to watch out for. September 11, 2022, is Grandparents Day, when we honor the ways grandparents enrich our lives. From September 18-24, the National Council on Aging sponsors Falls Prevention Week, a nationwide effort to raise awareness that falls are preventable. Watch our calendar for Tai Chi and other classes that help prevent falls and make you safer at home and in the community. September is also Hunger Action Month. With millions of seniors affected by hunger, expect to see some crossover between that and National Senior Center Month.
We look forward to seeing you in September!