Senior Center project: An update
It is nearing the end of summer, and it is time for a brief update on the progress of the Maine Highlands Senior Center (MHSC) project. Unfortunately, the construction schedule in August prevented many local residents and visiting families from touring the Central Hall renovations during Homecoming this year, disappointing the Board overseeing the project as well as many who were eager to see the project as it is progressing. Rest assured, however, progress is being made.
In the building renovations, two rotted posts and their footings by the front door have finally been replaced. Inside, the sheetrock is going on day by day. Siding has been nearly completed, and as many can see, the front doorway area is being refurbished. All windows are replaced and the building has full foam insulation. The heating and ventilation system upgrades, sprinkles and fire alarms are next as well as the elevator and plumbing.
Although a little behind schedule, the building is still on track to open The Commons Event Center next year and The Highlands Adult Day Service Center in 2017. In a project this size, it is inevitable there will be unexpected slowdowns and hurdles to clear. We are still committed to bringing this exciting project to our community.
Beyond the building renovations, the MHSC is active in many areas of the community through various programs aimed at increasing vitality and engagement of older adults. With the support of The Charlotte White Center-Thriving in Place coalition partners, MHSC is spearheading a Fall Risk Reduction effort aimed at reducing falls in the region. It is also sponsoring a WindowDressers community build for this fall/winter to help people get low cost, energy saving window inserts for their homes which will reduce heating costs by as much as 25 percent the first year.
Both of these projects are proceeding with volunteer efforts, and both could use extra help from anyone in the community who wants to be part of making a real difference in local well-being and vitality.
What we most want right now is for the community to become excited about all that is happening and be part of it. Getting involved is the best way to stay young and engaged in life. It prolongs life – really!
For information about the opportunities to make a difference call 992-6822 or 907-8950.
We invite readers to offer feedback about this column and to suggest topics for future articles. You may do so by contacting Meg Callaway of the Charlotte White Center at (207) 947-1410 or meg.callaway@charlottewhite.org or Lesley Fernow at (207) 992-6822 and lmfernow@rcn.com.