“Mike on Main Street” Coffey Meets with Directors from Senior Services of Central Illinois

I met with Directors from Senior Services of Central Illinois (SSCI) in Springfield to learn more about how they help seniors in the community. This social services organization is partnered with the city and park district to help keep seniors socially connected through a variety of activities and services. Since 1967, they have been making a difference, specializing in non-medical services to seniors

Not only was I impressed with the facility, but how the employees go the extra mile to provide quality of life services to seniors and provide solutions to problems so seniors can continue to live independently and in their own homes. The work they do is fantastic for the community! They also rely on volunteers for their "Meals on Wheels" food delivery service, so if you or someone you know is interested in volunteering your time to help seniors, please contact SSCI.

Volunteer Opportunities at Senior Services of Central Illinois

If you are interested in improving our community by helping others, please take a look at volunteer opportunities through SSCI.- LEARN MORE

I want to give a huge thank you to Executive Director Carol Harms and Director of Marketing Tessa French for your time today, but most importantly your efforts to improve the lives of seniors in Springfield and surrounding areas.

History of Senior Services of Central Illinois

The United Community Services Planning Division of United Way began a study in 1957 of seniors who were not institutionalized. They discovered many problems regarding aging and therefore, in 1963, compiled a nineteen-page report about a plan for a Senior Citizen's Center. The plan was then presented to the Delegate Assembly of United Way, but no funding was available. It was not until the Older Americans Act was passed in 1965 that funds became readily available to set this plan in motion. In 1966 a committee became incorporated as a not-for-profit organization and was named the Board of Directors for the Senior Citizen's Center. They began applying for grants from federal and state entities. Sangamon County's first Senior Citizens' Center, which was located at 1315 South Eighth Street in Springfield, opened in April 1967. The building, which had formally been the Little Red Schoolhouse, was remodeled and named The White Cottage. Mrs. Margaret Summers was named the Executive Director..READ MORE