The LifeTime Senior Program located at the Hills & Dales Community Center offers area senior citizens access to great opportunities including a variety of activities geared to their interests, social events and health and wellness programs including; exercise groups, line dancing, wood carving, Swedish weaving, Wii bowling, card clubs and more. Weekly activities are posted each week in the Dubuque Telegraph Herald.
When Hills & Dales purchased the Community Center building we took on the challenge of reviving the senior center, because it could play an integral part in supporting our mission of enhancing community inclusion for the individuals with disabilities we support.
The relationships that have been built between the senior citizens and the persons with disabilities who also attend programs at the Community Center are naturally occurring, and show us that all people have similar needs, dreams and desires. This center has allowed Hills & Dales the opportunity to educate members of the community and develop a culture of acceptance where we as a community should appreciate and value others no matter their age or ability.
Since assuming the LifeTime Center in 2005, we have re-implemented the congregate meal program, which provides daily, healthy meals at a minimal cost which is a basic requirement for seniors to remain healthy, active and independent. We have also offered countless complimentary, inclusive and intergenerational programs and outings, along with numerous fee-based activities and programs. The number of meals served through the congregate meal program has grown to 10,803 in Fiscal Year 2010, and an overall total of 700 seniors were supported through various programs and activities.
The mission of Hills & Dales is to build meaningful lives for individualswith disabilities by offering services that support the whole person and enhance community inclusion. The primary services that are provided through Hills & Dales support persons with disabilities, but since assuming the LifeTime Center five years ago, we feel we are now also well positioned and effective in building meaningful lives and enhancing community inclusion for the seniors that are supported as well.
Through the various programs that are offered at the Hills & Dales Community Center, people of all ages and abilities are able to participate in life enriching activities together, support one another, and care for each other.
