Naples Florida Weekly
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Naples Senior Center gains approval to build new facility


An artist endering of the planned Naples Senior Center facility. COURTESY PHOTO

An artist rendering of the planned Naples Senior Center facility. COURTESY PHOTO

Naples Senior Center, a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive programs and social services for seniors, announced that it has obtained the necessary approval from the Board of Collier County Commissioners to proceed with its new permanent home on Autumn Oaks Lane, just a block south of Immokalee Road.

The Naples Senior Center is the only human services agency of its kind, providing “one-stop shop” services addressing the emotional and social needs of seniors in Collier and southern Lee counties. Since opening its doors in January 2014, the organization has seen a surge in the depth and scope of need for comprehensive senior services in this region.

“Membership has increased from 80 to more than 1,400 members, and the number of dementia respite groups has increased from one to 11,” said Jaclynn Faffer Ph.D., president/ CEO of Naples Senior Center. “This state-of-the-art facility will help ensure that our programs and services remain available to any senior who wants to become part of our family.”

FAFFER

FAFFER

The 30,000-square-foot facility will be funded through a capital campaign that was launched in 2019 and has been accelerated by a $5-million commitment from local philanthropists Patty and Jay Baker. This lead gift has put the project on a successful track and has inspired others in the community to help the cause. The Bakers are no strangers to philanthropy; their names grace several prominent institutions across Naples.

Licensed and credentialed professionals provide all programs and services. These include structured dementia respite support; geriatric case management and senior outreach programs; and emotional support services as well as a “choice” food pantry.

An average of 40 different social, educational and wellness programs also are offered each week thanks to a dedicated corps of more than 200 trained and vetted volunteers. For additional information on the Naples Senior Center and its comprehensive programs and social services for area seniors and their families, visit www.NaplesSeniorCenter.org. ¦

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