After years without a permanent home, the Dexter Senior Center officially opens today in a brand-new facility at 2740 Baker Road. The move marks a major milestone for the organization, which serves older adults across the Dexter area.
The new center is part of a larger multigenerational complex that also includes the Dexter Wellness Center. Purchasing the Wellness Center and building the new Dexter Senior Center was made possible by federal, state, and county grants. Dexter Community Schools (DCS), stepped in as the fiduciary for the federal and state funds, and will now serve as the Senior Center’s landlord. While DCS owns the building, Dexter Senior Center is responsible for its operational costs.
“This new facility has been years in the making,” said Executive Director Anna Pekrul. “After we lost our longtime home, Dexter Community Schools stepped up to serve as the fiduciary for an $8.5 million state appropriation designated for a multigenerational community center. Support in securing this funding came from Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, Senator Sue Shink, Representative Jennifer Conlin, and Representative Carrie Rheingans. Congresswoman Dingell helped secure more funds for the multigenerational complex through a federal Community Project Funding grant. The Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners and private contributors also provided significant financial support to make this project possible.”
The center is open to all adults aged 55 and older, but its mission goes beyond serving seniors. Starting in August, it will also host meetings for local civic groups, including the Dexter Rotary Club, Dexter Lions Club, and the Dexter Forum. Pekrul emphasized the organization’s desire to give back. “We remember what it was like not to have a permanent home, and we’re glad to offer that to others.”
Programming at the new center will ramp up in the coming weeks. July serves as a soft opening while staff and members get settled in the new space. The public is invited to an official ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, August 16 at 10 a.m., followed by a weeklong community open house from August 18–22. The week will conclude with a celebration featuring food, raffles, and activities on Friday, August 22.
“We’re so excited to welcome the community into our new space,” Pekrul said. “It’s a great opportunity for new members to learn what we offer and get connected.”
Membership to the Dexter Senior Center is open to anyone aged 55 and older for $35 per year. Residency in Dexter is not required.
The new facility is located at 2740 Baker Road, Dexter, MI 48130.
Photos by Doug Marrin
8123 Main St Suite 200 Dexter, MI 48130
