Beavercreek Senior Center Seeks Support for New Van to Keep Seniors Moving

The Beavercreek Senior Center has launched a fundraising campaign to purchase a new large transportation van, vital to maintaining and expanding essential ride services for local seniors. The total cost of the new van $160,000, leaving the center with a significant fundraising goal.

"This van is critical to our operations," said Senior Center Supervisor Kari Truax. "Without it, we may have to reduce services, particularly for seniors who use wheelchairs or rely on grocery day trips."

The center's transportation program offers affordable rides for Beavercreek residents - $2 within city limits and $4 for out-of-town medical appointments. In 2024, the program provided more than 9,000 trips, helping seniors access healthcare, shop for groceries and stay socially connected.

Currently, the center operates four vans five days a week from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., all staffed by volunteers. Last year, 155 volunteers contributed over 34,000 hours - the equivalent of 16 full-time positions - with many hours supporting transportation services.

In addition to low fares, the center provides transportation scholarships to ensure no senior is left behind due to financial hardship. However, one of its large vans is nearing the end of its service life, threatening the program's ability to serve seniors with mobility challenges.

To help meet its goal, the City of Beavercreek is accepting donations online at beavercreekoh.myrec.com. Donors can click the "Donate" button on the homepage and log in to contribute any amount. The Senior Center also accepts cash, card, or check donations at 3868 Dayton-Xenia Road. Checks should be made payable to the City of Beavercreek.

"No donation is too small," Truax said. "Every dollar gets us closer to securing this essential vehicle and maintaining the independence and mobility of our seniors."

Businesses interested in making larger donations or exploring sponsorship opportunities can contact staff at seniorcenter@beavercreekohio.gov.

"If you're unable to donate, another way to help is by volunteering as a driver," Truax added. Volunteers work in pairs - a driver and an escort - to ensure seniors are safely transported. Vans are equipped for wheelchair access and do not require a commercial driver's license. Volunteers assist with securing wheelchairs, tracking trips using tablets and collecting fares. For more information on volunteering, visit beavercreekohio.gov/volunteer.

"Together, we can ensure Beavercreek seniors stay mobile, independent and connected," Truax said.