Jenn Korbel from Buckham West was out speaker Senor center has been active since 1968. IT began as a group meeting at McKinley School just for meeting and having coffee. In 1970 it was called the Golden Age Club (Largest senior center in MN with 1000 members) and started at the Community Center. Buckham West paid off their mortgage this year (the addition in 2018)
Common misconceptions about Buckham1. It is not a senior living facility or adult day care 2. It is not a library. It’s just connected, but they are separate things. 3. A lot of people do not even know there is a Senior Center. In 2018 the name changed to Buckham West. There is movement towards changing the signage over to include “Senior Center”. It’s like a nightclub, you come to hang out, but you go home at night. Unlike a night club, they open early. Nightclubs have VIP sections, everyone belongs at Buckham West. It’s a place to feel connected and have community.
One of the most popular clubs is the writing group. Right now, there are 11 people attending. The most popular program is Bingo Night. There is a focus on connecting people with resources. There are many partnerships in town- meals on wheels, Three Rivers, M-F meals available, MN Aging Pathways, Family Service of Rochester, Neighbors Helping Neighbors, Rice Country, Catholic Charities and fitness center classes.
There is lots of programing- fun activities and educational classes (Science and History), lots of programing, art classes, etc. They desire to bring in members of the community to come in and offer programs.
The Art Exchange is a program started by a member. It’s an opportunity to share art and skills twice a month with members. The idea is to inspire and help members dive into art. Volunteers are needed- flower waterers for downtown (7 days a week in the morning May-September) Dining room check in, funeral escort teams, Fashion on Central store which is run by volunteers (all the proceeds go towards the Senior Center).
Faribault and Rice County funds the electric bill and about 30% of operations. Fashion on Central and the apartments above it help fund things. The funeral homes end up offering about $5000 a year for the escorts. You do not need to be a member, but there is a $45 fee to be a member. Other fund raisers- bake sale, puzzle sales, book sales, renting out the space.
The Senior Center is a 501C3. Currently there are around 400 members.
