"We give because we should, we give because we can, we give because we're good citizens."
That's a quote from Wilfred George for whom the new Wilfred George Adult Day Center in San Rafael, is named. Guests, VIPs, patrons and clients turned out in droves for the dedication of Senior Access' newest center. (click photos to enlarge)
Senior Access is the sole program in Marin County dedicated to providing daytime care for adults with memory loss and Alzheimer's.
"We serve approximately 75 clients, plus their caregivers by extension," says Executive Director Chris Chater, "And we're the only program in the County that does."
Besides the new Wilfred George Center high up on a hillside in northern San Rafael, are two other facilities; one in Kentfield and the other in 
West Marin. The centers are a place for the seniors- who need constant care- to go, providing them with activities including physical motion (tai chi), mental acuity exercises (Wit & Wisdom) and art projects (painting and tilemaking for instance). It also provides a much needed respite for the caregivers and family members who constantly care for these seniors.
The new center is a lovely open space, with hardwood floors and bright white walls that is covered with client artwork. Michelle Burns coordinates art activities for the Center clients-
"We've created a sanctuary and they open up and express themselves through the art," she says adding, "We emphasize there's no wrong way to do the art."
The artwork is vibrant, colorful and surprisingly well wrought.
"It's a dignified and sophisticated program," says Chater, "We don't do the crayons thing. We treat them as they are, adults, not as children."
The new Center is open five days a week, and transportation is provided if the caregivers are unable to transport clients. The seniors have a morning coffee upon arrival, and lunch is also provided, along with the activities. Since the clients have mental and memory lapses, the ratio of staff to client is key to the success of the program; 1 staff member for every 5 clients.
All this care costs money, and Senior Access, like other non-profits everywhere, is feeling the economic pinch. Many social services who previously depended on consistent and loyal donors, can't necessarily count on them this year, and like its non-profit counterparts, Senior Access is stepping up its efforts to solicit donations to meet any budget shortfall.
"The alternative is not having this Center," says Chater, "And that's not acceptable."
One group who Senior Access can count on, is the World Wings International chapter of Marin. These retired Pan Am flight attendants are annual donors to Senior Access; it's their only charity. Today, they presented Chater with a check to further the cause.
As staff members, board members, local politicians and guests gather round and warmly greet each other to celebrate the hard work, Richard Brier, the center's Tai Chi instructor sums up the reason we're all here-
"I just want people to know they're not alone."
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This all looks lovely. I need information about your day care program, cost, transportation? etc.
Posted by: Frances Smith | Saturday, April 04, 2009 at 11:36 AM