THE OLDER CROWD:The senior center’s fundraising challenge

The Costa Mesa Senior Center continues to be the jewel of 19th Street on the Westside of Costa Mesa. Activities and programs are in full swing daily.

The center is not only dedicated to keeping seniors and baby boomers active, but also offers fabulous wellness and aid programs that serve a deeper need for many who have benefited over the years from the good works of others.

The center’s staff takes great pride in making sure that the variety of services fits the needs of the patrons. There is also an incredible volunteer group. The combination of all these folks is a wonder to see in action.

From the standpoint of the board of directors, one of our biggest challenges is, of course, fundraising. As the only senior center in California that operates as its own corporation, not as a city facility, it is a daily challenge to find the funds necessary to continue the programs that we are all so proud of.

The board continues a difficult mission, along with our hardworking Executive Director Aviva Goelman, of finding people willing to share their financial support.

Nonprofits all over the country recognize the effect that is still with us from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. So much was given to that horrible event by many who would normally donate to our center that funding is running short.

We hope that donors would revisit the effort of the senior center to see that donations go a long way in helping our most deserving seniors.

Remember the goal of all of us should be to become a senior!

If anyone would like to take a look at what is going on at the Costa Mesa Senior Center, give us a call at (949) 645-2356.

I guarantee the tour will inspire you to want to help. Several events are coming up in the near future, including a terrific Western Hoe Down with great food, music and entertainment.

I really encourage everybody to take advantage of the 19th Street jewel. There are programs and services for all ages. We really need a lot of help to make those things continue and to grow. Take a look and invest in a great center.

Visit us at www.cmseniorcenter.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS

On Oct. 20, come to the senior center and celebrate our famous Country Western Hoe Down from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Dinner will be served while you listen to live music featuring the Doo-Wah Riders. Reservations are a must. Cost is $5 for members and $12 for nonmembers.

On Oct. 28, the center will be having a Flea Market from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot at 695 W. 19th Street. Great deals for everyone. If you would like a table to sell merchandise, call Darryl Kim at (949) 645-2356, ext. 15. Spaces for members are $10; $20 for nonmembers. Admission is free.

is the president of the Costa Mesa Senior Center board of directors and a candidate for Costa Mesa City Council.