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 There is no better way to spend one’s free
time than to use that time helping others who are in need. This includes
bringing a meal to a shut-in, lifting the spirits of someone who is
depressed, helping someone who needs assistance filling out insurance
forms, driving someone to the doctor’s office for an appointment, or
providing opportunities for seniors to get together socially.
These activities are only a few of the many
services that are provided by the Leesburg Senior Center, which is
located on Penn Street near the center of town. The Center is part of
the lead agency called the Mid-Florida Community Services program (MFCS),
which provides dozens of services using federal and state funds, as well
as private donations for its operation. The program was formed in 1968
to operate in Lake, Sumter and Hernando Counties. There are
approximately 1000 volunteers that work in a variety of non-profit
agencies; 700 of which work right here in Lake and Sumter Counties.
Almost all local community agencies rely on volunteers, including Meals
on Wheels, public school assistance, local hospitals, the Head Start
Program for young children, RSVP (which is the Retired Senior Volunteer
Program), and many others.
The Leesburg Senior Center also supports a
staff of 12 people. They normally operate from 8am to 5pm daily, but at
times stay open later to accommodate early evening activities.
The Center is considered a multipurpose
center, because of the diversity of services that it provides. The
dining facilities provide daily-catered meals for its visitors, and the
menu changes every day to include a variety of ethnic tastes. There have
even been occasions where “meal romances” have developed between daily
visitors. Birthday celebrations are held once a month, and there are
activities that include aerobics, line dancing, weight watchers,
painting, and tax preparation during the early part of the year. The
Hula Honeys, a group of ladies that enjoy hula dancing, perform on
occasion. For those who need assistance in the insurance maze, the SHINE
program (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Seniors) provides valuable
help.
The Center also hopes to complete a
therapeutic garden on the property adjoining the center, allowing the
Garden Club to display their skills by growing a beautiful garden for
the Center’s visitors.
Volunteers in the program can serve as much
or as little time as they wish. There are some who are available only
once a month, and their services are used in many ways. They can get
involved at any age - as a matter of fact, there is one visitor who is
102 years young who comes to the Center on a regular basis.
 The Mid Florida Community Services program
is under the guidance of its Director, George Papovich. He is
responsible for its functions, including grant prepar-ation and budget
development. With an overall budget of 16 million dollars for all of
their senior services, George has his hands full coordinating all of the
programs that are designed to meet the needs of the local senior
population.
Mr. Papovich received his degree in Social
Sciences and is now working towards a Graduate Degree in Public Health.
He has always had an interest in Gerontology, and he enjoys promoting
the programs that are offered through the Leesburg Senior Center.
He stated that; “Seniors need to be
well-informed of the services that are available to them,”. As a result,
his staff and volunteer force are effectively reaching out to those in
need right here in Central Florida.
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