Nestled in the picturesque woods at Turner Lake exists a hidden jewel, namely, Newton County Senior Services which serves all seniors throughout Newton County. Housed in the Josephine B. Brown Senior Center, Newton County Senior Services maintains a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere and is a place where seniors from all walks of life can gather for fun and fellowship.

Ranked at the very top in Georgia, the Senior Center serves as a model for other counties wanting to improve their senior facilities.

With Newton County’s continued growth, the senior citizen population is 24 percent according to the latest U.S. Census. Currently, the Senior Center has more than 300 members. As the senior population rises, the Senior Center is hoping to grow with it. A massive expansion is on the horizon which will allow for more programs, resources and outreach.

Newton County residents age 55 and older are eligible to join the Senior Center which is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Only $50 per year, membership provides seniors incredible access to a new world of possibilities and pursuits. However, because the Senior Center is a place of equal opportunity, no senior is turned away for an inability to pay as scholarships are awarded to those truly in need. Low-cost handicap-accessible transportation is available.

On any given day, the Senior Center is bustling with activity. There is always something new and exciting happening. Whether continuing an existing hobby or developing one, seniors can try different things, be creative and possibly discover new skills they never knew they had.

Seniors can choose from ceramics class, art and crafts, quilting, sewing, exercise and strengthening class, walking club, drama club, dancing, computer classes, book club, dominoes, Voices of Wisdom Choir, Pizazz Travel Club, day-trips, nutrition classes, fellowship club, “Great and Grand” grandparents club, various workshops, special holiday entertainment and more. There are numerous ways for seniors to become involved, or if preferred, they can simply come for just good plain fellowship. 

Furthermore, the Senior Center offers a wide array of support programs and resources ranging from health and welfare counseling, wellness services, nutrition education, senior employment, legal and financial services, referrals and age-related information. Monthly calendars are available with event/resource details.

Good nutrition is a key focus at the Senior Center with hot breakfasts and lunches served daily. Conscious of fixed-incomes, breakfast is $1 and lunch is $2, but financial assistance is available.  These heart-healthy meals are full of vitamins and minerals to maintain critical muscle and bone health.

Most activities and programs at the Senior Center are funded by its 501(c)(3) non-profit component which relies heavily on volunteers to run programs and sponsors to help with funding. The Home Delivery and On-Site Meal programs which provide nourishing meals to low income qualifying seniors throughout the county are subsidized through state and federal money. Home Delivery meals for non-qualifying seniors are paid for by generous grants from United Way, H.B. Fuller, Snapping Shoals EMC, and private donations.  The numbers of seniors served through grants are based on grant amounts. Unfortunately, Newton County still maintains a waiting list for seniors needing meals. Volunteers are continually sought to help deliver meals. Graciously funded by General Mills, the Project Enrichment Program engages seniors in various special activities. Personal and business donations are vital and always appreciated. Sponsors enhance the quality of life for so many seniors.

Part of life, aging comes with many questions, life changes, and spare time from retirement, but sometimes loneliness is a factor too. The Senior Center seeks to provide solutions and opportunities plus a safe, comfortable, and loving place for seniors to spend the day, make new friends, receive filling meals and pertinent age-related information, and most importantly—have fun. Joining the Senior Center is more than becoming a member; it is becoming a family member!

The Senior Center boasts the best staff and the most devoted, outstanding volunteers. Without the tireless efforts of the many volunteers, numerous activities and events would not be possible. The Senior Center is grateful to its volunteers who donate their time. Volunteering makes a significant and positive difference in the lives of others. If you feel in your heart a special calling to help seniors by volunteering with activities, delivering meals, offering services, or sponsoring, please contact the Senior Center! We are located at 6183 Turner Lake Road.

Newton County Senior Services will contribute monthly columns in The Covington News. For more information please stop by or call 770-787-0038. The website is: http://www.co.newton.ga.us/departments/senior-services.