Celebrating Community and Vitality: The Pasadena Senior Center
In the heart of Pasadena, California, the Pasadena Senior Center (PSC) has become a beacon of hope and vitality for older adults over its remarkable 65-year history. Under the guidance of dedicated staff like Charmaine Nelson, the center has flourished, evolving into a vital resource for the community. As the marketing director, Nelson reflects on the center’s growth, stating, “PSC is a great source for the community, and we’ve truly only gotten better with age.”
A Commitment to Older Adults
Founded in 1960, the Pasadena Senior Center is the oldest non-profit senior center in the area and one of the first in the nation. Its mission is clear: to improve the lives of older adults through a variety of programs that promote fitness, education, social interaction, community activism, and volunteerism. With over 2,300 members, the center is dedicated to making resources accessible to older generations, ensuring that they can lead fulfilling and active lives.
The staff at PSC is deeply committed to understanding the needs of its members. Regular engagement with visitors allows the center to adapt and enhance its offerings continually. The fitness center, in particular, stands as a testament to this commitment, featuring four certified fitness trainers and a diverse array of programs that are updated weekly and monthly.
Diverse Programs for Healthy Aging
The Pasadena Senior Center offers a wide range of activities designed to cater to the varied interests and needs of its members. From health enrichment and strength training to meditation, Zumba, and computer classes, there is something for everyone. The center also hosts classes in Qigong, Tai Chi, ballroom and line dancing, as well as language and art courses, including beginners French and Spanish, watercolor painting, improv, and yoga.
Executive Director Akila Gibbs emphasizes the changing landscape of aging, noting, “Today’s seniors are so active. They’re working, traveling, and like to move around and be productive.” The center aims to change public attitudes about aging, focusing on healthy aging and social wellness. By addressing the diverse needs of older adults, PSC helps them remain vital and connected to their communities.
Inspiring Stories: Jesse Evans
Among the many inspiring members of the Pasadena Senior Center is 99-year-old Jesse Evans. His life motto, “just keep on rolling,” reflects his commitment to staying active and engaged. Evans works out at the fitness center five days a week, demonstrating that age is just a number when it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Born in Logan, West Virginia, Evans began working in the coal mines at a young age. His service in the Merchant Marines during World War II involved physically demanding labor, which laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to fitness. After the war, he moved to California, where he worked as a gardener for the city of Pasadena, keeping him active even in retirement.
Evans has continued to prioritize fitness, taking long walks and even hiking to the top of Mount Lowe well into his 90s. His dedication to health serves as an inspiration to fellow members at PSC. “He’s my role model for how to be and look at 99,” says Pat Williams, another member of the fitness center.
The Importance of Community
The Pasadena Senior Center is more than just a place for fitness; it is a community hub where older adults can connect, learn, and thrive. The center fosters relationships among its members, creating a supportive environment that encourages social interaction and volunteerism. As Evans succinctly puts it, the key to longevity is to “eat clean and keep on rolling.”
As the Pasadena Senior Center approaches its 65th anniversary, it continues to adapt and grow, ensuring that it meets the evolving needs of older adults. With a commitment to healthy aging and a focus on community engagement, PSC stands as a model for senior centers across the nation.
Visit the Pasadena Senior Center
For those interested in becoming part of this vibrant community, the Pasadena Senior Center welcomes visitors during its operating hours:
- When: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday; 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturday
- Where: Pasadena Senior Center, 85 E. Holly Street, Pasadena
- Cost: Visit the website for membership details
- Info: pasadenaseniorcenter.org
In a world where aging is often viewed negatively, the Pasadena Senior Center is a shining example of how older adults can lead active, fulfilling lives. Through its diverse programs and strong community ties, PSC is not just a center; it is a celebration of life, resilience, and the power of connection.
