I AM PCA: The faces of our senior centers

Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) operates two senior community centers and supports the entire senior center network throughout Philadelphia. PCA’s Firehouse Active Adult Center and Southwest Senior Center each serve hundreds of older adults every week. These centers offer more than just daily activities. They are welcoming spaces where older adults can stay active, build friendships and find support.

During National Senior Center Month in September, PCA recognizes the many people who make these centers special. They include volunteers, staff, class instructors and members. Each person plays a part in creating a caring and supportive place for older Philadelphians.

At Firehouse Active Adult Center in West Philadelphia, the spirit of volunteerism runs deep. Elizabeth Richburg-Durand, 77, is a fixture at the front desk. She warmly welcomes visitors, answers the phone and provides information about center programs. Richburg Durand also takes part in art center’s classes and enjoys sharing her work with others.

“The work we do here gives you a purpose,” she said. “You are not just passing time. You are learning, growing and helping others. That keeps me coming back.”

Cherrie Belcher, 91, began attending Firehouse shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic. She quickly found ways to get involved. Belcher volunteers in the kitchen and also enjoys participating in computer and craft classes. The center provides more than something to do. It gives her a sense of belonging.  

“Being part of this community keeps you social,” she said. “You meet people, you laugh and you stay active.”

Olivia Woodson-Abney, 74, volunteers at the center in many ways. She helps to serve meals and assists members who need support with forms or other paperwork. Woodson-Abney believes the time she spends at Firehouse improves her mental and physical health. “This place helps me feel better all around,” she said. “Helping out gives me energy, and it lifts my mood.”

Pat Clark, 72, has been a regular at the center for more than a decade. Her contributions range from seasonal decorations to organizing food distributions. She also motivates other members to get involved by reminding them that their presence and participation matter.

“I enjoy helping out those who paved the way,” Clark said. “Now I do it for others. It keeps me young.”
As Firehouse’s center counselor, Jacqueline King plays a key role in welcoming new members and building trust. She also leads wellness and exercise classes that focus on mobility, strength and stress reduction.

“We laugh, we stretch, we move and we do it together,” King said. “We support each other.”

At Southwest Senior Center, members are equally engaged. The center offers a wide variety of programs. Offerings include line dancing, painting, technology training, chronic disease self management and health screenings. Hot lunch is served every weekday. But more than that, the center is a place where members form lasting friendships.

“Our center is a second home for many people,” said Paulette Cunningham, Southwest Senior Center’s director. “It is a place where older adults feel safe and welcome. They support each other here.”

One of the highlights of the center is the Garden Club. Members grow vegetables, herbs and flowers in raised beds and large pots. The crops that are thriving under their care include okra, watermelon, collard greens and corn. The club shares both the harvest and the joy of gardening.

“We meet on Tuesday, just before lunch,” said Garden Club member Cynthia Murray. “And we have about 15 to 20 members. We enjoy each other’s company, and we are proud of what we grow.”

The group formed about eight years ago. “Whatever they plant, they can take home,” Cunningham said. “It gives them something to care for and share.”

Southwest’s strong volunteer leadership extends to other areas. Carolyn Sims-Nesmith directs the center’s choir. She leads members in rehearsals and performances for special events. Sims-Nesmith said singing together brings a sense of joy and unity to everyone involved.

“When we sing, we share joy,” she said. “It lifts spirits and makes people feel proud. Music brings people together and that is what this center is all about.” Whether they are serving food, leading classes or growing tomatoes, the people at PCA’s senior centers bring energy, kindness and commitment to their communities. During National Senior Center Month, PCA proudly celebrates them — because they are PCA.

Bill Conallen is the public relations specialist at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging.