by Andrea Palmer
The Senior Center of Kingsbury and Fort Edward, 78 Oak St., Hudson Falls, has been an area resource for many years.
Max McDonnell, executive director of the center for nine of those years said he is “proud of all the services, programs and activities we have. We work closely with the municipalities of the town of Kingsbury the village of Hudson Falls and the town and village of Fort Edward. We work closely with the Washington County Office for the Aging, and the Tri-County United Way.”
“It’s a rewarding job,” said McDonnell. “What a great opportunity it is to work with seniors, and to be the director of the Senior Center. I enjoy going to work every day.”
He said the center gives the seniors the opportunities they want and need “to live the best lives possible. This includes physical fitness, transportation, cultural enrichment, socialization, nutrition, education and health information, and community interaction.”
“As a nonprofit, our mission is to provide quality health and wellness programs, along with educational and creative opportunities in a vibrant, active environment for our local seniors.”
Future plans include expansion, and the possible purchase of the vacant property next door at 80 Oak St. The space would be used for additional parking, a bus garage and a picnic and pavilion area. The center also plans to remodel the main activity room.
Events coming up include a summer picnic at the Fort Edward Idle Hour Club on Aug. 8. The eighth annual chicken BBQ fundraiser takes place on Aug. 25. Ukulele club and orchestra programs are available, as well as the formation of a pickleball league.
McDonnell recognizes the Senior Center’s volunteers a driving force behind the center’s functioning ability.
“I would like to recognize and thank all our loyal volunteers, which includes administrative, managerial, kitchen and bus aides,” said McDonnell. “All of them do a great job each and every day. Thank you to our employee bus drivers, for all they do in transporting the senior group to and from the center, and on trips.”
“I would also like to recognize and thank the Senior Center Kingsbury Fort Edward board of directors, and thank our arts department, exercise program instructors, and all our loyal special event and program sponsors for their continued support,” said McDonnell.