Diane Smith has been managing the Dunlap Senior Center since April with the help of assistant manager Jan Roberts, who has been involved with the center for two years.
Since becoming a tandem, the duo has been devising ways to increase community interest and involvement in the senior center, which relies on participation to keep meals coming through the door.
Meals are provided by Connections in Council Bluffs, and the center needs to average 10 people a day to keep the meals coming.
“There are some days where we only have seven or eight people, but then the next day we have 20,” Roberts said. “We're just trying to add some new people, let people know, get a few more to play cards and we're bringing in people to visit with the seniors.”
Currently there are health-related visits, a visit from Harrison County Emergency Management and a Halloween party planned to entice people to come out to the center.
The most recent development is the hosting of a coffee social at 9 a.m. on he second and fourth Thursday of each month. The first one was held earlier this month, with Smith saying it went well with several people talking and laughing.
“You don't just come for the coffee and food, you come for the socialization and companionship,” Smith said. “There's more to it.”
Bingo is also hosted at 11 a.m. on Fridays.
Roberts added that it's important for people to know that anyone can come. The center isn't just reserved for seniors or those with disabilities or low income. If you have your grandchild for the day or a friend is visiting, feel free to bring them, too.
“We know there are a lot of people in town who have lost partners and don't realize that you can come down here and visit,” Roberts said. “We lost so many people that used to come here from a death or they're in nursing homes. We also have home deliveries. If you want your meal delivered you can call in.”
If you would like a meal, the center simply asks that you call a day ahead to let them know you will be there and would like one. Smith can be contacted at 515-835-2090. A donation is asked for meals, with different prices for those 60 and older and those 59 and younger. However, if you cannot afford it, you will still be accommodated.
“We want people to come in here and feel welcomed,” Smith said. “We want a place where people can just relax, visit and have fun.”
Menu for remainder of August
All meals have options of juice, coffee, tea or water for a drink.
Aug. 22
Breaded chicken breast
Whipped potatoes with gravy
Broccoli
White bread
Brownie
Margarine
Aug. 23
Taco salad
Pinto beans
Tortilla chips
Fresh fruit
Taco sauce
Sour cream
Aug. 26
Homemade beef meatloaf
Tomato gravy
Whipped potatoes
Garden vegetable blend
Dinner roll
Pudding
Margarine
Aug. 27
Chicken noodle casserole
Brussels sprouts
Tossed salad
White bread
Mixed fruit crisp
Margarine
French dressing
Aug. 28
Meatball stroganoff
Lima beans
Glazed carrots
Dinner roll
Pineapple tidbits
Margarine
Aug. 29
BBQ chicken sandwich
Macaroni and cheese
Green beans
Cookie
Margarine
