We have six different programs as part of the Ellis County Friendship Center. Several of the programs have a number of facets. Here is an overview of our programs. For further information on any of these programs, please click on the associated link.
| Programs at our Senior Center: |
 The Ellis County Friendship Center and our satellite centers offer activities as diverse as the people they serve. Exercise, the arts, travel, cooking, languages, and good old fashioned fun abound! We focus on activities that promote a healthy lifestyle and build a better sense of community.
The Ellis Friendship Center has expanded into a network of neighborhood satellite facilities that include The Center for Healthy Aging, which offers medical and dental services as well as preventive health services and classes.
Our other satellites include Mary's Elder Hotel, Elijah's Parish Hall, the Eastbrook Community Center, Epiphany United Methodist Church, and St. Matthew's Presbyterian Church.
Ellis Friendship Center services also extend to Dante, Lee, and Marymore Counties.The Ellis Friendship Center and all our satellites are places to experience the personal reward of helping others while sharing and discovering one's own talents and interests.
Click here to read more about Programs at our Senior Center.
| The Center for Healthy Aging: |
 Healthy aging is increasingly important as our older adult population increases. Ellis Friendship Center has long been a leader and national model in this area. We also provide transportation to the Center where we offer basic health and dental care for older adults on limited incomes.
The health center is staffed exclusively by volunteers from our community. Doctors, nurses, dentists, dental hygenists, and medical technicians generously give of their time to assit the senior community. Some of our volunteers at the Center for Healthy Aging are retired medical professionals. Volunteer retired physicians, nurses and related personnel, work closely with the County Public Health Department to provide care. Physicans and dentists enjoy being able to continue to work with patients and remain active in their professions without the stress of running an independent practice. Patients benefit by having excellent care from seasoned professionals who often have more time to spend with them. Others are still active in their careers, and share their valuable time and resources with us.
The clinic is open Monday and Wednesday from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM. To schedule an appointment, please stop by during those hours.
Click here to read more about The Center for Healthy Aging.
u If you are experiencing an emergency please call 911 immediately u
The Ellis County Friendship Center and its sattelites are staffed by an incredible group of volunteers of people of every age and walk of life. About 85% of our volunteers are seniors who actively particpate in the center and generously give of their time to make the Friendship community work. Volunteers are the heart of this organization. Last year, more than 900 volunteers contributed more than $1 million worth of their time to help older adults served by the Ellis Friendship Centers.
Click here to read more about The Volunteer Program and current opportunities.
 Ellis Friendship Centers address the cultural diversity of the communities they serve through special programs that address the unique needs and interests of participants. Information is available in Spanish and English and translators are available to assist whenever possible. For individuals who are interested in learning English, the Senior Literacy Program provides trained volunteers to help them develop the language skills they need to function independently.
| Care Giving/Frail Elder Care: |
Caregivers and their families can find help for their loved ones through our Frail Elder Services and Adult Day programs. Care coordination and case managmeent help older adults age with dignity while residing in their own homes avoiding premature institutionalization. Realizing that both caregivers and their loved ones benefit from time off from each other, the Ellis Friendship Center and its sattelites offer adult day services that provide stimulating activities in a secure environment. Caregivers can also get emotional support and helpful information through support groups at the Center.
Click here to read more about Care Giving/Frail Elder Care.
Transportation is one of the biggest challenges older adults face. Ellis Friendship Centers Around Town program can help seniors explore options available to them. Our buses offer transportation to and from the centers, and over 250 volunteer drivers help with the transportation needs of those who don't drive.
It is best to schedule your transportation needs in advance; however we do have drivers available to help you with immediate needs such as last minute doctor appointments, picking up groceries, and delivering prescriptions.
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