50th Anniversary of the Young At Heart Center

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Mr. BARRASSO. Madam President, I rise today to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Young at Heart Senior Citizens and Community Center in Rock Springs, WY. On May 19, 2023, a gala will be held at the Young at Heart Center to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

The Young at Heart Center has served the Sweetwater County community since its founding in May, 1973. Founding board members were J. Garrett Smith, Louis M Groh, Ruth Lucas, T.H. Smith, Dwight J Jones, Lyda Hium, Elmer Halseth, Willie Heikes, and Ernest J Mecca. The center was originally designed to serve the senior population. With the construction of their new facility in 2009, their services expanded to address the needs of the entire community.

The Young at Heart Center exemplifies their mission of ``a community place for the young and the young at heart.'' The center offers 14 different programs with amenities, activities, and services for residents of all ages. Young at Heart is a safe place for Sweetwater County residents to gather, receive educational and nutritional services, pursue interests, and participate in social and recreational activities. The center is also a public-use space for meetings and events. The center serves as a cornerstone for the senior population by providing meals and care. Seniors participate in numerous daily activities that include games, hobbies, exercise, and opportunities for friendship.

Young at Heart added several home health and caregiver services for patients 18 and older. These include skilled nursing services, personal care services, assistance to at-home caregivers with support and education, home-delivered meals, and the Senior Companion Program. Each of these foster wonderful relationships within the community. Many young people in Sweetwater County have been impacted by the Young at Heart's Early Learning Center. The Early Learning Center focuses on building children's self-esteem and self-worth through strong partnerships with parents. The center provides positive guidance, indoor and outdoor gross motor space, and technology to enhance learning. The importance of nutrition is highlighted by the dedicated kitchen staff who prepare breakfasts, lunches, and afternoon snacks.

The Young at Heart Center receives funding through various government grants and private programs. They also rely on the generosity of Sweetwater County organizations and individuals. The Young at Heart Center would not be able to provide a safe and engaging space without the dedication of staff and volunteers. Volunteers use their skills and interests to help lead support groups, serve meals, assist special events, offer companionship, and maintain the grounds.

Jamie Loredo began her career with the center as the activities coordinator and facilities secretary. In the fall of 2022, she took over as executive director. Her resolute dedication to the center is notable. She has focused on gaining community involvement, helping to advance the center's success. Jamie has made a significant difference in the lives of Sweetwater County residents.

The wonderful staff and board members who keep the center running are:

Jamie Loredo, Executive Director

Louise Webb, Receptionist

Brianna Romero, Early Learning Center Director

Billie Seneshale, Director of Nursing

Brandy Sellers-Mertin, In-Home Services Supervisor

Gina Randolph, Access Care Coordinator

Misty Wilson, Center Bookkeeper

Cindy Stensgard, Home Services Bookkeeper

Daphne Palmer, Kitchen Manager/Home Delivered Meals Coordinator

Kandi Lewis, Facility Secretary/Activities Coordinator/ Outreach Coordinator

Meagan Rogers, Aging Division Coordinator/ Outreach Coordinator

Board of Directors

Diana Jessop

Suzette Williams

Kent Porenta

Richard Vandersloot

Michelle Quiroz

Kathy Gilbert

Wanda Bobo-Ferber

Kevin Maloney

Sue Riggs

Mary Thoman, County Liaison

It is an honor for me to recognize this significant milestone for the Young at Heart Center. The center serves as a gathering place where the Sweetwater County community can enjoy friendship and fellowship. Bobbi joins me in extending our congratulations to the Young at Heart Center on their 50th anniversary.

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