Since opening in March 1993, the Pleasanton Senior Center has served as a gateway to important programs, services, and resources for Pleasanton adults aged 50 and older. The Senior Center has become a popular destination for a wide scope of life enrichment, health, recreation, and social programs, according to Raymond Figueroa, Recreation Supervisor in Pleasanton's Community Services Department.

The Senior Center's mission is "to provide activities and services that meet the diverse needs of mature adults and to assist them in maintaining healthy and independent lives," says Figueroa, who has worked at the Senior Center in a variety of positions for nearly 15 years.

The many services offered by the Senior Center make it an important community resource. Legal assistance, computer tutoring, eyeglass repairs, notary help, estate planning, health insurance counseling, foot care, and health screening are just a few of its benefits.

"We also have a strong partnership with the Senior Support Program of the Tri-Valley," notes Figueroa. The nonprofit provides case management, health education, in-home support services, and support groups. "That makes the Senior Center a one-stop or full-service destination for many mature adults. It's an ideal model."

The Senior Center houses Pleasanton Paratransit Services (PPS), a door-to-door, shared-ride service for Pleasanton and Sunol residents 70 years of age and older, or those 18 years of age and older who are ADA qualified ($3 a ride for in-town appointment; $3.50 for out-of-town service to designated medical facilities). For more information about PPS, call 931-5366.

In addition to services, the Senior Center offers a surprising number of activities. More than 10 fitness classes are available, including Zumba Gold, Fit for Fifty, Core, Stretch and Balance, Walking and Bicycling groups, Line Dancing, Tai-Chi, and Yoga. The Senior Center also boasts a wood shop, Bocce courts, and a boutique.

Adult children with aging parents can also use the Senior Center as an information and referral resource. "We can connect people to other services like the Alameda County 2-1-1 Social Services phone hotline or, as mentioned earlier, in-home support services offered by the Senior Support Program of the Tri-Valley," says Figueroa.

Another resource, Recreation for Adults with Developmental Disabilities (RADD), is also based at the Senior Center. The RADD program provides recreation, socialization, and community involvement opportunities for persons who have developmental disabilities and are 15 years of age or older.

In early May the Senior Center hosted a 25th Anniversary Open House celebration and plans to continue going strong. Throughout the year the Senior Center will host on-going special interest classes and events such as computer tutoring, cooking classes, holiday luncheons, a Books and Coffee group, and its vibrant weekday lunch program, which features a nutritious meal at the Sage Cafe for a suggested donation of $3 (advance registration required).

On Tuesday, June 26, the Senior Center will host a free driving workshop between 10 and 11 am presented by the California Highway Patrol. "Driving is Freedom," notes the CHP. "Keeping that freedom as we grow older is the focus of the 'Age Well Drive Smart' program. Let the CHP point out ways to keep your ability to drive for as long as possible."

"The City of Pleasanton has always honored the legacy of older adults, and some 25 years ago it had the vision and wisdom to create the Pleasanton Senior Center," says Figueroa. Now "we have the privilege of connecting seniors to important resources and services every day."

To learn more about the Pleasanton Senior Center, please visit www.PleasantonSeniorCenter.org.