Our 20th Anniversary

2 0 Years and Co un tin g

BSRI CELEBRATES ITS 20th YEAR OF SERVING BRUNSWICK COUNTY SENIORS

In 2002, 20 years ago, Brunswick County commissioners established Brunswick Senior Resources, Inc. (BSRI) as a nonprofit agency to provide senior adult services. The commissioners expected growth of the 60-and-older population and wanted to address the coming need. They began to set up funding through grant awards, government support, and other fundraising.

The initial four locations were housed in older buildings. Jim Russell served as the first BSRI executive director under a board of directors, and they sought to add space and locations. By 2006, BSRI and Brunswick County’s plan was to offer five large senior centers in communities across the county.

When the economy made a downturn in 2009, building was placed on hold. When it rebounded, BSRI added staff, including the current CEO, Jim Fish, and picked up steam on programming and services.

BSRI now manages five fullservice senior centers, in Calabash, Leland, Shallotte, Southport, and Supply, all of which are recognized as Senior Centers of Excellence. And BSRI supports the meal program in Boiling Spring Lakes and Oak Island. In addition, BSRI operates two thrift stores and is breaking ground on new senior housing in Calabash.

The Heart of BSRI

As we mark 20 years of service to older adults in Brunswick County, we recognize the dedication of our staff and directors. Their determination, commitment, and community spirit have moved mountains.

Our senior participants make the centers a place full of heart. They are the daily reason for BSRI as we strive to promote the well-being and quality of life of senior adults in Brunswick County. We’ll continue to provide programs and service to sustain senior independence as we move toward the future together.

The Center is a beau ful place, and everyone gets along. The Center is good for the elderly to get out of the house, and it keeps us busy. This center has go en me out of my chair! I’m thankful for being here and for volunteering here. Ro Casabona When I came here, I didn’t know anyone. I met my best friend here on the first day the center opened. The people that run this place are the best and will do anything for you.

This organiza on and its people have grown throughout the past 20 years in wisdom of our mission and in our many acts of service. For me, the joy has been in the journey to discover new ways to bring people together, to reinvent aging. Light those candles and keep them lit, to con nue to show us the way forward. Happy Birthday, BSRI!

Melissa Starr, Director

The Brunswick

Center at Supply

Happy anniversary, BSRI! Five years ago I stumbled upon a job opening at the Southport Center for the director posi on and applied. Best. Decision. Ever. BSRI and the Southport Center and community welcomed me with open arms. Thank you, BSRI, for providing me with an amazing opportunity to do the job I love more than any other in the place I love more than any other.

Melissa Catle , Director, The Brunswick Center at Southport