Jackson Senior Center prepares to expand to meet growing needs

Here's an opportunity to have fun while raising money for a good cause: a Valentine's Day dance starting at 6:30 today at the Jackson Senior Center, 2690 Travelers Way.

The fundraiser is expected to help the senior center as it raises $65,000 for an addition to the existing building, which is running out of room to accommodate the meals and other popular programs. The center served an average of 242 people a day in January. When as many as 300 people show up, there aren't enough seats.

The Jackson Senior Center opened in 2005. In addition to daily lunches, the center offers educational clinics and other activities. It also delivers meals to handicapped individuals and homebound seniors.

The Jackson Senior Center Foundation, which owns the existing building, hopes to draw on the expertise of volunteers. Some of the board's members have contracting experience, for example.

Thanks to baby boomers, the demands for the meals and activities at senior centers is expected to grow for the next few year. The Jackson center wants to be able to meet that demand. And the community can help.

For more information, call 243-4241.