©2018 Saratoga Photographer.com
by Andrea Palmer
The Clifton Park Community Center provides a variety of services for those 50 and up. The town of Clifton Park took over the center in 2016 and has been running it ever since.
“Our programs are better than ever and our membership has increased tremendously, almost double in size,” said Susan Leonard, director of the center for the last two years. “We are all very proud of our accomplishments”
Previously, she was the director for another senior center for eight years.
Said Leonard, “I draw from my experiences not only with the previous senior center, but from the many volunteer opportunities that I have had. Everything from creating and facilitating Girl Scout and Cub Scout programs, to neighborhood activities and elementary school programs. I am a planner and having fun is always my main goal.”
Seniors can join the center for $15 annually. Most programs and activities are free or at a reduced price to members, thanks to donations and volunteered services by instructors and community partners. Most activities are offered Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Trips and monthly dinners are planned outside those hours.
“Our biggest impact on this community has been in bringing people together,” said Leonard. “There is a real feeling of community through our lunches, dinners, trips, service projects, games and other programs as well. Our seniors are friendly, helpful and welcoming. This is a place to play, learn, exercise and socialize. For some, this is a second home.”
“We have so much to offer for our independent, self-sufficient seniors,” said Leonard. “The goal is to offer something for everyone.”
“We have a wonderful staff here at the center who brainstorm and work to make it all happen. Together with our volunteers, we put on some really great events.”
The center offers activities that can be found in the monthly newsletter, mailed to members.
The calendar of events can also be found online at www.cliftonpark.org.
The center is located at 6 Clifton Common Boulevard in Clifton Park. The phone number is 518-383-1343.