This project helped bring together directors of senior centers representing 10 different Appalachian Ohio counties for a leadership summit. This networking opportunity was designed to help the directors expand and improve programs and services that have a positive impact on older adults and their caregivers.

Throughout the U.S. and Appalachian Ohio, the population is aging and the need for services to support our aging neighbors continues to grow. This project provided valuable resources to bring senior center leaders together to share best practices and discuss their services with others in the field. Networking opportunities are often rare in Appalachian Ohio and providing the resources necessary to make this possible will improve senior centers across a number of communities.

As the Guernsey County Senior Citizens Center explained, “This was the first summit that has ever historically provided a venue and opportunity for senior center executive directors to better support one another and ultimately strategize to better serve a growing older adult population in Ohio.”

In addition to networking, the event provided directors the rare opportunity to discuss possible collaboration opportunities, share ideas, problem solve, hold roundtable discussions, and hear presentations regarding innovative programs and technology.