Tech advancements are coming to the Anderson Township Senior Center, ushering in a new era of sorts for the organization.
“I’m using the term ‘revolutionize’ to describe us moving from an old school senior center to an organization that embraces technological advancements that will better serve our members,” said Senior Center Advisory Committee Member Steve Long, who is helping usher in transformative change to the organization.
Once COVID-19 and its restrictions hit, Long said the center scrambled to adjust some of its services online. The need for new equipment became real during this time, confirming the advisory committee’s notion that change was needed.
Thanks to funds supplied by the Ayer Family Trust, $41,000 recently was used to purchase a quality projection system, enhanced with more effective speakers for two large rooms that are used every day. Projectors will be mounted in the ceiling, once the project is completed, making it possible for programs to be streamed into the center, supplying older adults with “great materials that can be accessed via Zoom,” For example, one program to be accessed via Internet includes a trip to the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Center, allowing members to feel like they are at the zoo, while another recent program involved an interview up close and personal with former Cincinnati Reds team member Tom Browning.
“Using the new system will allow us to bring in talent we could probably not afford to bring into the center,” said Claire O’Connell, activities manager.
Long noted that it has been at least 20 years since the center had a significant tech upgrade, except for small projectors. “Some of the equipment looks like the old cassette deck kind of stuff,” he said. As a volunteer for the past 22 years, Long said the addition of updated projectors, microphones and speakers will significantly enhance the everyday experience of those who attend. “There will be a brighter screen for older eyes… and improved quality of sound for the ears.”
The project is expected to be complete by the end of the summer, he said.
“We have been inspired by the circumstances of COVID to help create and deliver lively educational programming in new ways,” said O’Connell. Having staff members upgrade their own tech skills on quality equipment will go a long way to deliver better group experiences and online programming, she said.
The Anderson Township Senior Center, 7970 Beechmont Ave., is open 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. To learn more about programs, classes and membership, go to https://www.AndersonTownship.org/senior-center.