SCV Senior Center New Building Campaign Addresses Needs of Growing Community

Today, the SCV Senior Center building in Newhall is the site where essential services and resources are provided to over 10,000 local seniors – an impressive feat that, in great part, is accomplished thanks to a tireless network of volunteers and a small-but-mighty staff.
But to truly understand how the Senior Center building operates today, we must first be reminded of the past. Few know that, while the SCV Senior Center has been functioning in this location since 1983, the building itself was originally constructed as a church in the 1960s.
At less than 11,000 square feet and with only 125 parking spaces, it’s safe to say that the SCV senior community has outgrown this facility – and that’s not taking into account the remarkable population growth expected. In fact, the greatest increase to City of Santa Clarita populations 40 and over is forecast to occur among people ages 75 and above – with a jump of 92 percent projected between 2020 and 2035.
Translation: We need a new Senior Center facility now for today’s population of seniors – and tomorrow’s.
The good news is that, after four years of studies and behind-the-scenes efforts, there is only $1.75 million remaining to be raised before groundbreaking can begin on the new Center. The sooner we complete this fundraising stage, the sooner the seniors in our community can gain access to a building that will be customized to best connect them with the resources and services that can markedly improve their quality of life.
When you make your donation to the SCV Senior Center New Building Campaign, you’re not just helping pay for concrete and bricks. This Center isn’t about “a building” – it’s about services and support for now and the future.
The new Center will boast a dedicated Culinary Arts Kitchen where seniors can learn how to cook for one or two; prepare healthier meals that taste good to their changing palates; and connect with family members and friends new and old during inter-generational classes. The Health & Wellness Center, as well as the Fitness Center, will provide seniors with the opportunity to “age well” with vital health screenings and exercise that improves cognitive function and reduces feelings of depression and isolation while strengthening the body. The new Technology Center will host classes to improve senior tech literacy; reduce cases of online senior abuse; serve as a springboard for better familial and social relationships online and better connect seniors to the opportunities for an understanding of today’s computers and what the systems offer. At the Employment & Financial Center, seniors will be able to identify volunteer and paid-work opportunities and connect with vetted financial experts who can provide advocacy and advice. These programs and more – like the Expanded Adult Day Service, Fashion Center, Café and others – will call the new two-story Center home… with your help. Please make your donation today at www.newseniorcenter.com – so that our seniors can have a better tomorrow!
Kevin MacDonald is the executive director of the SCV Senior Center. For more information, please call 661-259-9444.