BACKGROUND AND HISTORY
The Bellows Falls Area Senior Center was originally conceived by the Women's Club of Bellows Falls. Subsequently, it became a program of the YMCA and was located at 6 Hapgood Street. This building was sold and the YMCA purchased its current facility on Athkinson Street. The new building allowed additional space for senior programs. Eventually it became evident that the senior program needed a formal organizational structure of its own.
At this point, the seniors broke away from the YMCA and a committee was formed to seek a charter. The chartering organization became known as the Bellows Falls Area Senior Center. One member was selected from each of the surrounding towns to serve on the Board of Directors. The initial Board of Directors' expertise was invaluable at local town meetings where the financing was secured. In addition, the Center benefited from the hard work of members with their raffles, bazaars and other fundraisers.
The Center then moved to the Masonic Temple on Westminster Street, allowing further expansion of programs. In 1991, thanks to the generosity of Bernard Gallup, the present building at 3 Hyde Street was purchased. During the 1990s, an abutting piece of property (the old Farr's Garage body shop) was purchased allowing access to the Center from Tuttle Street. Although we are in the same original building known as 3 Hyde, our new location and mailing address is now 18 Tuttle Street. The Center continues to expand its programs and activties which are available thoughout the day, Monday-Friday.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Bellows Falls Area Senior Center, Inc. is to serve as an organized body specifically charged with recognizing the needs of older people (aged 60 and over and their spouses) in the area of the towns of Rockingham, Westminster, Grafton, Athens and Walpole, NH and will endeavor to establish a plan of action that will meet those needs. (Our needs area has now expanded to include all surrounding communities.)
We assist in fostering successful aging through services and activities in the area of education, recreation, creative art, health, nutrition, social work and employment.
JOIN US TODAY
It has been proven that seniors need friendship and support - from the community and each other. Our group environment encourages a sense of well-being and helps to dispel some of the negative aspects of aging.