ASHLEY TERRY
Azle City Council kicked off the first day of September with a proclamation honoring a vital part of the Azle community: its seniors.
During its Sept. 1 meeting, council officially proclaimed September as Senior Center Month, recognizing the important role senior centers play in keeping older adults engaged and active in their communities.
Joined by Azle Senior Activity Center director Jackie Joy and adult activity center manager for Meals on Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County Sareth Collins, Mayor Randa Goode acknowledged the various opportunities the two organizations provide seniors, such as social connection, nutritious meals, meaningful activities and community involvement.
“Senior centers help reduce isolation and promote the dignity, independence, health and well-being of older adults by encouraging connection among mind, body, spirit and community,” Goode said, reading from the proclamation. “The Azle Senior Activity Center and Meals on Wheels Inc. of Tarrant County recognize the valuable experience, skills and contributions of older adults and support their continued involvement in our community.”
Joy said the Azle Senior Activity Center plans to celebrate Senior Center Month in many ways throughout September — from a fall prevention class to a couple of “special meals” commemorating the occasion.
Although participation at the center had become stagnant two years ago, it has since flourished alongside the variety of programs being offered — growth that was evident from the turnout of the center’s 40th anniversary celebration in June.
“We’ve taken in 100 or more people, and we’re still taking them in. We’re having them come in two and three at a time right now, so we’re really excited about that,” Joy said. “I want to thank everyone for all your support and everything you’ve done.”
Located at 601 Southeast Parkway, the Azle Senior Activity Center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Activities offered include art, music, crafts, Bible study and bingo, along with various community field trips. Fresh, nutritious lunches are also served at 11:30 a.m. each weekday in partnership with Meals on Wheels of Tarrant County.
