Last week on the blog we covered the benefits of Parks and Recreation programs for National Park and Recreation Month. It’s common for cities and townships to run their senior center/senior programming through their Parks and Recreation departments; Ypsilanti Township is no exception. Today we’ll be exploring all that Ypsilanti Township’s 50 & Beyond Program has to offer with Nichole Passmore, Ypsilanti Township Recreation Coordinator.
Senior Resource Connect: If you had to give an “elevator speech” about what your organization does, how would you describe it?
Nichole Passmore: The Ypsilanti Township 50 & Beyond program serves over 800 adults, ages 50 and up, in Ypsilanti Township and the surrounding areas. We provide many opportunities for our members to stay physically and socially active through various programs in recreation, leisure, continued education, health and volunteerism. From the world traveler to the casino lover, the card player to the crafter, the yoga enthusiast to the line dancer, we strive to offer something for everyone.
We serve lunch daily here at our Community Center as part of Washtenaw County’s Senior Café Program. Ypsilanti Township 50 & Beyond also connects older adults to community resources. In cooperation with local agencies, we work to inform and aid older adults in finding the services they need. Everything from tax help, insurance needs, locating food pantries, obtaining transportation, and tracking down the medical equipment they need are just some of the things for which we provide assistance.
SRC: Walk me through the step-by-step process. What happens when you get a phone call/referral?
NP: When we receive an inquiry, the first step is gathering basic information from the person as well as determining the services they are seeking. From there we work together to determine what the best course of action will be, if we are able to provide assistance or connect them with another agency. We then provide them with the necessary contact information and then follow up later to ensure they have found the help they were seeking.
SRC: What organizations do you work closely with?
NP: The Ypsilanti Township 50 & Beyond program partners with local agencies and organizations such as Focus Hope, Catholic Social Services, AgeWays (formerly Area Agency on Aging 1b), Turner Senior Wellness Program, Hope Clinic, and the Housing Bureau for Seniors, just to name a few, as well as other area senior centers and senior living communities. We are always seeking new ways to work together with community partners to provide our members and our community with the best support possible.
SRC: What are some things you wish the public knew about your role?
NP: I entered this role on the tails of the pandemic, and I think one of the most important things I can share is how vital our services are in supporting older adults in our community. Social, emotional, and mental health are just as important as physical health and Senior Centers play a vital role in providing all four. I think one of the most moving things about our Community Center is how it is more than just a gathering place; every day we work to connect older adults to vital community services to help them stay healthy and independent.
SRC: What tips do you have for someone with a loved one who could benefit from attending a senior center?
NP: If your loved one is reluctant to join a Senior Center, take a day and visit together. Call ahead and see what day might offer the activities your loved one most enjoys. Or make an appointment with the Center’s director to receive a tour and ask questions. Walking into a new place with someone you know can often make it feel more comfortable and less intimidating.
SRC: Is there anything you would like to add?
NP: The Ypsilanti Township 50 & Beyond program is open to anyone ages 50 & up and it is not required to be a resident of Ypsilanti Township. Our members are some of the warmest and most welcoming people you will ever meet and we strive to make everyone that enters feel like part of our family. Our yearly membership fee ranges between $15-$20 for individuals and $25-$35 for households. Membership benefits include discounts on classes, special member-only events, free drop-in clubs and activities, access to our fitness center, monthly newsletter, use of our game room, group travel discounts and so much more!
Thank you to Nichole for sharing information about this important community resource! You can learn more about the Ypsilanti 50 & Beyond program by calling (734) 544-3800 or visiting their website.
