The Peggy M. Seegars Senior Center has been re-certified as a Center of Excellence by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS). This certification process takes place every five years. It includes a self-evaluation and independent visits by a site review team to recommend a certification. NCDHHS defines a Center of Excellence as a site that provides “exemplary services and opportunities to their communities and serve as mentors and models to other centers.”
“To be recognized by the State as a Senior Center of Excellence is a testament to the exceptional opportunities, programs, services, and activities that are being offered to the older adults in Wayne County,” said Paula Edwards, director of Wayne County Services on Aging. “This recognition also brings the Senior Center additional funds that enable us to provide some of the great programs and special events offered. Without the dedication of team staff members and the numerous volunteers, we would not have been able to achieve excellence.”
The site review team commended the Senior Center on their Alzheimer’s guide for clients and caregivers, portfolio of service resources, and volunteer plan. The review also praised the Senior Center for its “resiliency and overall commitment to the older adults in their community during and following the pandemic.” The site review team added, “The center’s staff and volunteers have a record of going above and beyond to meet the needs of the community and older adults in the surrounding areas.” Specific examples provided include hats and blankets donated by the knitting group, filling and distribution of the disaster bags, purchase, and distribution of locked medicine boxes, and hosting onsite tax preparation services and COVID vaccine clinics.
The mission of the Wayne County Senior Center is to enhance the lives of older adults through programs, services, and activities which encourage independence, involvement, and advocacy within the community. Residents can learn more about the Senior Center at www.waynegov.com or visit the Center at 2001 East Ash Street in Goldsboro.