More Space, More Connection: Saline Senior Center Reopens

“Social connections are critical for healthy aging, and the services and programs we offer encourage connections that are essential to our community and health.” Nancy Cowan, Executive Director of the Saline Area Senior Center

The Heart of the Senior Center Welcomes Members

As members enter the newly renovated, open-concept entrance of the Saline Area Senior Center (SASC), they are greeted by a space that includes a fireplace, café, seating areas, and colorful wall hangings.

Dubbed “the Heart of the Senior Center” by SASC staff, it might be difficult to imagine that the new Senior Center entrance once served as Saline Middle School’s bus maintenance garage.

Made possible by the $180 million bond voters approved in 2022, the SASC was able to renovate space and acquire an additional 6,000 square feet. Some new features for the Senior Center include the open-design entrance, meeting rooms, a game room, a locker and bathroom area near the new group fitness studio, and a workout room equipped with ceiling fans.

According to Saline Public Schools, the Senior Center expansion and renovation are part of the $9.58 million contract awarded for upgrades to the Saline Middle School, including middle school classroom and cosmetology program renovations. The overall project has three phases, with Phase 2 completed.

In addition, Executive Director of Operations Rex Clarystates that next door to the SASC “the renovated athletic complex will offer eight dedicated outdoor pickleball courts and eight additional tennis courts in close proximity, expected to open this summer.”

Saline Senior Center Designed to Expand

Noting that increased square footage will benefit future anticipated growth, Cowan states, “Other similar communities who have built new senior centers have seen a 50% or more increase in the first year or two. SASC can provide the same great programming yet have room to expand over time.” 

Currently, the SASC has 876 members, not including the 500+ non-members served each year through other services like Meals on Wheels or AARP Tax Prep.

In the meantime, SASC continues to offer a wide variety of programming activities for its members, including physical fitness, wellness, and creative arts classes. Other offerings include various card and game groups, clubs and social groups, educational programs, tech lessons, and day trips.

Saline Schools and Senior Center Tout Intergenerational Support

Located at Saline Middle School, the Senior Center and Saline Schools have always partnered on intergenerational programs such as pen pals, game nights, and writing group marathons.

Dr. Rachel Kowalski, Saline Area Schools Superintendent, sums up the community bond between the schools and seniors: “The new spaces at the SASC mark the start of an exciting chapter. Housed at the Saline Middle School and made possible by the passage of the 2022 bond, Saline Area Schools are proud to serve as key partners to bring this vision to fruition for our community.”

Individuals 45+ who live in the Saline or the surrounding area are eligible for membership. Contact the Saline Area Senior Center for more information at www.salineseniors.org or call 734.429.9274.

Featured photo: Ribbon Cutting for the SASC  Re-Opening. Photo by Sue Kelch.