Our Programs
The GOLD Project© connects children with elders by creating intergenerational conversations in local schools. Visits to 2nd grade classrooms provide opportunities for our members to share their life experiences with children, helping to bridge the gap between young and old. Learn about the Gold Project here.
Our Friendship Center Family
Lela
Ana Leon
Sweet Mary Zafra
Judy Hughes
Ellen Willis-Conger
Kim Larsen
Caity Young
Christine Poarch
Heidi Holly
Esther Kratz
Naomi Edwards
Kathryn Cherkas, MPH
Our Blog
By Kathryn Cherkas For over 40 years, Friendship Center has been a post in our community for compassionate care for aging adults. Friendship Center’s two sites, one in Montecito and the other in Goleta, offer exciting day programs for adults and seniors to enjoy daily while offering caregivers respite. Since closing our physical doors on March 16th due to COVID-19 precautions, we have had to find alternative…
By Kathryn Cherkas, MPH Did you know that our brain’s ability to be aware of and respond to thirst decreases as we age? This is an added challenge for caregivers because the one for whom you provide care might not be able to communicate that he or she is thirsty. While doing our best to make loved ones are…
By Kathryn Cherkas, MPH WHY ARE ACTIVITIES SO IMPORTANT FOR SENIORS? Let’s THINK! Brain stimulating exercises aid in better cognition, reasoning, processing speed, attention span, verbal skills, and working memory. Some of the tools we share through our virtual community verbally & visually, and others are physical, with doorstep deliveries of activity worksheets to members: word puzzles, number puzzles, and…
Our Mission
Friendship Center offers engaging activities that promote socialization, well-being, and a sense of community for aging adults. We provide respite, support, and education for their caregivers, enabling them to achieve balance in their lives.
