Many times, senior citizens find themselves searching for something to fill the void that’s left after retirement. One option they have is to take advantage of facilities the community has to offer such as senior centers. The North Pocono Senior Community Center in Daleville would like to remind everyone of their services while introducing them to their newest addition — an exterior, or outdoor deck.
It was stated that “this project was financed, in part, by a grant from the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development under the administration of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; the Department of Community and Economic Development; Lackawanna County, on behalf of Covington Twp.; and the Lackawanna County Community Development Block Grant program.”
Representing Lackawanna County were Commissioners Michael J. Washo, Corey D. O’Brien and A.J. Munchak; representing Covington Twp. were supervisors Thomas M. Yerke, David J. Petrosky, Charles Lindner, Marlene Beavers and John Brostoski.
The project was engineered by Acker Associates, Inc., Moscow, and the contractor was Ar-Tech, Inc., Gouldsboro.
According to site managers Susan Shirley and Barbara Lucke, “We are always trying to promote the community to come out and enjoy themselves. The addition of the deck now allows us the opportunity to include outdoor activities.”
Some of these outdoor activities include different games, picnics and fitness programs such as their Tai-Chi class. The deck is also equipped with outdoor lighting which allows them the ability to organize different nightly activities.
The deck, which is also handicapped accessible, much like the entire building, is partially covered with an awning that retains heat. This feature can be very beneficial, especially during winter considering it will be open year round.
Wrapping around from the front side of the building to the back, the deck also provides a beautiful view of the woods behind the center, as well as a walking trail and a basketball court.
Aside from Tai-Chi class, the first big activity on the deck will be their End of Summer Celebration on Friday, Sept. 3, from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Food includes hot dogs, hamburgers, baked beans, assorted salad and watermelon. There is a suggested meal donation of $1.50 for adults 60+, or $4.50 for adults ages 55-59.
Susan explained that there are many seniors throughout the area that simply don’t utilize their facility, so she hopes the new addition will help change that. Hopefully the deck will serve as motivation for the seniors to get outside, she said.
