The Senior Center, aka "The Social Event Center"
The "Hamilton Senior Center Inc." was incorporated and registered with the Secretary of State of Montana in 1991. Soon after, it received a 501-C-3 designation from the Internal Revenue Service. The main facility is located at 820 North Fourth Street in Hamilton, Montana; it is also known as the "Senior Center". The operation is staffed by all volunteers, with the exception of a certified cook and helper.
From the beginning, Hamilton Senior Center Incorporated has been managed by a four-member Board of Directors and two Directors at large. There are currently over 160 members of the "Corporation". Two "all hands meetings" are held each year to decide on major Policy and Bylaws changes or updates. The Board conducts business review meetings monthly and/or weekly to address operational and event planning issues. At this time, we have several openings for board members and volunteers.
Currently, our focus is on rebuilding our organization and service offering as follows:
- Recruit at least 6 people interested in volunteering so we can execute our plan.
- Expand our operation by adding activities targeted to non-seniors, such as educational focus groups, high
school student dances, concerts, talent shows and festive holiday activities that bring people together to
interact positively.
- Stabilize our revenue stream to allow for expanded activities and unexpected emergencies.
- Continue to improve so that everyone has fun and good quality social interactions at our center.
Citizens of all ages may use our services and facilities. Our primary mission is to support senior citizens' needs for healthy food and provide a healthy, safe place for all citizens to engage socially.
We provide inexpensive, fresh made, 4-course lunch meals three days a week, serving on average, 50 people each session. Seniors receive a 40% discount provided by the Council on Aging as they administer Federal and State Nutrition Program funds. All non-seniors are invited and welcome as participants in our programs. However, the 40% discount applies only to seniors.
Beyond the lunch program, members of the Corporation and the general public may rent the facility for social gatherings and meetings. Regular renters, such as the "Toastmasters", an adult support group, line dancing class, two bridge clubs, other card gaming groups and bingo games, help us generate revenue. All proceeds from rentals, games and donations are used to finance operations. Just like many other organizations, our expenses increase every year. We rely on membership dues and donations from members, the general public, philanthropic organizations, foundations, and sponsorship programs to meet our operating expenses.
As we improve the operational effectiveness and funding of the Center, we will continue to provide needed and welcomed services to an often overlooked part of the Ravalli County community.
Prepared by Joseph Bruno, President
