Preparing for hurricane season and a busy summer

Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, President/ CEO

As we all know, June 1 is the beginning of hurricane season. Naples Senior Center (NSC) works closely with its seniors to make sure they are safe if, or when, we are in the path of a storm. We reach out to NSC members and dementia and case management clients to make sure we have their correct contact information as well as information about special needs. For example, do they use assistive devices? Are they on oxygen? Do they live alone? Do they have pets? All of this is important to know in case evacuation becomes a necessity.

Our case managers and staff are in close contact with members and clients just before; during, if possible; and immediately after the storm to assist in any way possible. If anyone reading this is interested in becoming part of the NSC’s hurricane database, please get in touch with Anne Chernin, director of special programs, at 239-325-4444 or achernin@naplesseniorcenter.org. I know you all join me in hoping we have a calm hurricane season!

While the close of season is often a quiet time for agencies in Southwest Florida, NSC sees little change in its programs and services. In fact, membership is increasing, and we are doing more evaluations for our dementia respite program. Currently, we have five groups taking place onsite at Castello Drive; one on Marco Island; and Brain Joggers, an early memory loss group, is taking place at Emmanuel Lutheran Church.

The fact that it is the beginning of summer does not preclude me from giving you NSC’s annual “Save the Date” for its signature fundraising event, An Evening for Better Tomorrows. The event will take place on Jan. 14, 2023 at a private country club in Naples. Pencil it in your calendars and watch for more information to follow!

If you are staying in town, please do not forget that our food pantry is in operation throughout the summer. We welcome your donations.

Thank you for all you do to support Naples Senior Center.

Stay safe and stay well.