SCRANTON, PA — Serving Seniors, Inc., a nonprofit leader in advocating for and protecting vulnerable older adults in Northeastern Pennsylvania, will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a commemorative dinner on Thursday, Oct. 9, at 5:30 p.m. at La Buona Vita in Dunmore.
Founded in the early 1970s as Interfaith Friends, the organization began as a grassroots coalition of faith leaders and volunteers working to improve the quality of life for those in long-term care facilities. In 1975, the group formally reorganized as Serving Seniors, expanding its mission to include a broad range of services aimed at empowering and protecting older adults across the region.
“For half a century, Serving Seniors has worked to ensure dignity, safety, and voice for some of the most vulnerable members of our community,” said Executive Director David Falchek. “The needs of the older adult population haven’t gone away—and are likely greater now than ever.”
The organization will honor long-time advocate Dr. Alice McDonnell, professor at Marywood University and recognized expert in gerontology and hospice, with its Legacy of Care Award.
Serving Seniors provides long-term care ombudsman services in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, Wayne, and Wyoming counties, advocating for residents of skilled nursing and personal care facilities. In addition, the agency offers guardianship and power of attorney services, and serves as a patient advocate for older adults recently discharged from hospitals, particularly those with chronic or complicating conditions.
The 50th Anniversary Dinner will bring together community partners, volunteers, and supporters to reflect on the organization’s impact and renew its commitment to protecting and uplifting the aging population in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Tickets for the event are available at https://ticketstripe.com/serving50.For sponsorship opportunities or more information, click here or visit https://servingseniorsnepa.org or call (570) 574-4045.
Serving Seniors Board of directors announce 50th Anniversary Dinner. From left, Howard Evans, Brian McCracken, Ellen Strauskulage, Dr. Alice McDonnell, Carol Fisher, Scott Thomas, Shawn Flynn, David Falchek, Marilyn Vitali.
