Volunteers needed to help out at lunch, and as drivers
IMLAY CITY/LAPEER — After months of wearing masks and staying home, many local senior citizens are seeking a return to normalcy.
That includes getting out of the house and spending time with family, friends and neighbors.
To help fill the need for social interaction, the Imlay City Senior Center provides residents age 60 and older with numerous fun-filled activities.
Located at Imlay City’s Lamb-Steele Building, seniors age 60 and older can take part in craftmaking, dancing, exercise and other forms of socialization.
More than 20 senior citizens gathered at the Imlay City Senior Center Monday morning to exercise and enjoy the camaraderie of spending time with like-minded residents.
Director pleased
Nancy Galant, Lapeer County’s new Senior Program Director, is particularly pleased that things are returning to normal; both countywide and at the Imlay City Senior Center.
“We are happy to report that the Imlay City Senior Center recently returned to its normal operating hours; Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.,” Galant said. “The Imlay City center offers a variety of programs and services, including transportation and a daily congregate lunch for seniors age 60 and older.”
Galant reminded that the Lapeer Senior Center provides the same diverse offerings to meet the needs and enhance the quality of life for senior citizens. That includes focusing on the areas of recreation, health and wellness.
Volunteers sought
“We are currently actively recruiting for new instructors and volunteers to ramp up programming once again,” Galant said. “We are welcoming back returning members and reaching out to invite those that might be new to the area as well.”
In addition to the senior centers, the county agency also provides in home services to eligible seniors including assistance with personal care, homemaking, home delivered meals, respite and chore services, she noted.
“Our programs and services are funded by the Lapeer County Senior Millage,” she said, “and through grant funding available through the Valley Area Agency on Aging.”
Imlay City Senior Center Event Coordinator Tracy Ruhlman is encouraged that local seniors are returning to the Center as Covid-19 contraints have been lifted.
To fill present needs, Ruhlman is seeking volunteers to help out at the center; including volunteer drivers.
“A lot of people need drivers to take them shopping and to and from medical appointments,” Ruhlman said. “We are also looking for desk and kitchen help.
“The volunteers can do as much, or as little as they are able to do. We appreciate and welcome anyone who has some free time to help out.”
Those who have the time and ability to assist are asked to call Ruhlman at 810-724-6030; or call the Lapeer Senior Center at 810-245-6896.
