APRC WinterSpring 2018 PlayGuide | 541.488.5340 | The Grove at 1195 E Main St, Ashland Over the last year, APRC has been evaluating the Senior Center and its ability to reach a significant portion of the ageing public in Ashland. It was determined through a long process that the program could benefit from reorganization to meet the goal of a broader, more inclusive program providing services to seniors. APRC has had many questions about the reorganization, and I thought it would be helpful to publish a few FAQs in this edition of the PlayGuide. • Is the senior program closing? –No, the program is not closing; however, we are proposing some changes to the program for the purpose of enhancing the program in order to serve the large population of seniors in Ashland. • Will core services be affected during the transition? –Staff will work to ensure that core services remain at the center during the transition. Social services, such as ALIEP, bus passes and HEAT, will continue through a combination of efforts from City of Ashland staff and APRC staff. Questions regarding social services, or the Ashland Senior Program, may be directed to 541.488.5342 or email rachel.dials@ashland.or.us. • Will Food & Friends be affected by the reorganization? –No, APRC will continue to provide space to Food & Friends at the Senior Center according to our current contract with RVCOG (Rogue Valley Council of Governments) at no charge. • When will the public open houses begin? –The ad hoc committee will assist with organizing the public open houses and they will begin in December, 2017. The public is encouraged to attend an ad hoc meeting to listen to the process and give public input. The dates for these meetings will be published at the Senior Center and on our website at ashland.or.us/Senior. • Is the Senior Center moving to The Grove? –No, the Senior Center will not be moving to The Grove. This was examined and it was determined that the established center at 1699 Homes Ave is a value to the program as a location that people are familiar and comfortable with. We will be working to increase partnerships with other agencies to enhance services on site at the Senior Center, as well as keeping all core services at that location. I hope this information is helpful, but if you have additional questions you can drop by the Senior Center at 1699 Homes Ave., which is open 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. every weekday, and talk to one of our staff members or give us a call at 541.488.5342. Michael A. Black, AICP Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission Director director’s message FAQs about the Reorganization of the Ashland Senior Center Please note of the following special events in December for the Ashland Senior Center Listening & Public Input Sessions: Dec 13, 20, 27 12:30-2 pm Open House Event: Dec 18 2:30-3:30 pm and 5:30-6:30 pm More info at ashland.or.us/Senior Cover photo courtesy APRC Volunteer, Bob Palermini