News Summary
The Florence Sylvester Senior Center in Laguna Hills welcomes new leadership as Pat Kenefick becomes the director of activities and Ellen Dupuy takes on the role of community relations manager. With plans for new activities, such as a book club and continued services including Meals on Wheels, the center aims to enhance the experience for local seniors. Both leaders encourage community involvement and are seeking new volunteers to join their efforts in creating a vibrant environment for seniors.
Exciting Changes at the Florence Sylvester Senior Center in Laguna Hills
Laguna Hills is buzzing with excitement as two former volunteers take on leadership roles at the beloved Florence Sylvester Senior Center. The center has long been a cornerstone for seniors in the town, and with these new appointments, it appears things are about to get even better!
Pat Kenefick Takes the Helm of Activities
Pat Kenefick has been named the new director of activities and programs at the center, stepping into a role previously held by Aimee Roberts, who resigned in June. Kenefick’s approach to working with seniors is truly heartfelt, sparked by her family’s legacy of caring for others. Her journey began as a volunteer for Meals on Wheels and later working at the front desk of the center, where her love for engaging with seniors flourished. She even became the coordinator of the senior center before taking on this significant director role.
After experiencing the personal challenges of caregiving for her mother during her battle with lung cancer, Kenefick understands the daily struggles seniors face. She is passionate about bringing joy and purpose to their lives through fun and interactive activities. Every day, Kenefick aims to serve up a slice of happiness and community through the programming she helps create.
Ellen Dupuy Joins as Community Relations Manager
Meanwhile, Ellen Dupuy has been appointed as the community relations manager. Dupuy’s journey to the center started quite uniquely; her initial visit was to drop off flyers for a gem and mineralogy society! After relocating to California in 1996 for a consulting job in Santa Monica, she has since built a vibrant background in nonprofit marketing, public relations, and fundraising. Her extensive volunteer experience—including tenures with Meals on Wheels and an Alzheimer’s facility—has prepared her well for this new role.
Dupuy is equally enthusiastic about enhancing the center’s offerings and focus on engagement. Together, she and Kenefick are keen on ramping up services, making the Florence Sylvester Senior Center an even more delightful place for seniors in Laguna Woods.
New Activities and Continued Services
The duo has exciting plans! Starting soon, a new book club will launch on Mondays, in partnership with the Orange County Public Library, making reading a shared joy among community members. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg! The center will continue offering a smorgasbord of activities to keep everyone entertained and socially active. From laughter yoga to game sessions, bingo to tai chi, and crafting classes, there is something for everyone!
In addition to these fantastic activities, the center still provides Meals on Wheels services—an invaluable resource for seniors who may need meals temporarily or longer-term. The center also offers low-cost lunches, and thanks to regular transportation, seniors from Laguna Woods can easily access these services. They even get a free lunch for 30 days upon first use!
A Call for New Volunteers
Kenefick and Dupuy are eager to welcome new volunteers to help lead activities and classes at the center. They highlight the rewarding experience of connecting with seniors personally, something that Kenefick takes to heart. Dupuy also appreciates the diverse interactions that make the center a comforting gathering space for so many.
If you’re interested in joining this lovely community or need more information, feel free to visit the Florence Sylvester Senior Center, located at 23721 Moulton Pkwy in Laguna Hills. You can also reach them by phone at 949-380-0155 or check out their website at agewellseniorservices.org.
With these new leaders at the helm, the future looks bright for the Florence Sylvester Senior Center. Whether you’re a senior looking for engaging activities or someone interested in volunteering, there’s a special place waiting for you right here in Laguna Hills!
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Additional Resources
- OC Register: Senior Center Directors Working to Build a Home Away From Home
- Wikipedia: Senior Center
- OC Register: Laguna Hills Senior Center Director Resigns
- Google Search: Senior Center Activities
- South OC Beaches: Laguna Niguel Blood Drive
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Center
- Patch: Ballot Boxes Open in Dana Point
- Google News: Senior Housing News
