NORTH BEND, Wash. (PRWEB)
May 11, 2023
Dr. Lance Gibbon recently joined nearly 100 other supporters at the annual Mount Si Senior Center fundraising gala, “Coming Home.” The Mount Si Senior Center is unique in that it provides complete wrap-around services for seniors, including housing, transportation, meals, recreation, and counseling.
“Many seniors are challenged by isolation and mental health issues and struggle with mobility, wellness, and financial insecurity,” Dr. Gibbon said. “What’s heartbreaking is how many older adults don’t have anyone caring or looking out for them. That’s why the services the Center offers are so important.”
The guest list featured volunteers, staff, and community members, including current and former elected officials ranging from mayors to county council members. During the evening, live and silent auctions, raffles, and more helped raise tens of thousands of dollars to support the Senior Center, which has operated since 1977 and serves over 1,200 individuals a year.
A major accomplishment of the Senior Center was the creation in 2003 of its own transportation system, Snoqualmie Valley Transit or SVT. Each year SVT provides more than 40,000 rides for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and the general public.
The Senior Center also operates two apartment complexes with over 60 units combined. Rent is subsidized so that no resident ever pays more than 30% of their monthly income.
Through the Center’s Senior Advocacy program, older adults can access information about benefits and get referrals to services. Affordable fitness classes reduce their chance of injury and increase overall wellness. This is complemented by healthy and delicious meals served five days a week. Participation in social and recreational activities counters the social isolation and loneliness that affects seniors’ mental and physical health.
Dr. Lance Gibbon described the gala as a terrific event for an important cause and was glad that he attended. “As I grow older and help care for aging parents, I think about what they need and what I might need, especially if I didn’t have family around,” he reflected. “Every person needs connection and deserves dignity and respect, and I’m proud to support the Mount Si Senior Center in helping provide that for older adults in our valley.”
For more information, including how to support the Mount Si Senior Center, visit their website at http://www.mtsiseniorcenter.org/.
About Lance Gibbon
Dr. Lance Gibbon is a dynamic servant leader in education based in the Puget Sound area. During his 30-year career, he has served as a superintendent, principal and teacher. Dr. Gibbon excels at providing student opportunities, cultivating connections, and promoting positive, inclusive learning and work environments. A passionate community supporter, volunteer, and board member, he was twice recognized as Community Leader of the Year.
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