Alexandria Senior Services is a full-service non-profit community organization dedicated to helping seniors. It offers a wide array of programs for a diverse and aging population.
Formed in 1968 as Senior Citizens Employment and Services to address age discrimination in employment, it soon became clear other services were needed to facilitate the continued independence of the elderly. Programs for transportation, fuel assistance, emergency aid, information and referral, and home care were added.
Senior Services receives support from an active and committed Board of Directors, Alexandria city government, Chamber of Commerce, United Way, area churches, private and foundation grants, membership donations, and individual contributors.
It's stated mission is "To provide accessible, comprehensive and affordable services to seniors within the City of Alexandria and adjacent areas, and to promote the independence and self-sufficiency that enables seniors to age with dignity in their own community."
To accomplish this, Senior Services offers the following programs:
* Employment Services. Professional counselors match the needs of employers with the skills and interests of applicants. They assist seniors entering the job market for the first time, re-entering after years of absence, or transitioning. Job openings range from part-time to full-time, temporary to permanent, professional to skilled labor.
* Transportation. Senior Taxi, subsidized by the City, helps seniors remain independent. It provides residents, ages 60 and above, transportation to and from medical-related appointments, grocery stores, and to the Lee and Mount Vernon Senior Centers. Mobility impaired residents, whose disability prevents use of public transportation may obtain subsidized taxi or van services for transportation in Northern Virginia through DOT. There is no age limit for this service.
* Home Care. This program assists seniors in determining their needs and finding the appropriate person to employ. It gives them flexibility and control of their services. Trained and experienced in-home assistants are security checked and available to help with activities of daily living.
* Family Elder Care Consultation. Professional consultants assist families by assessing the needs of their elderly family members, suggesting options and then developing service plans tailor to meet their individual needs and the family's resources. There is a reasonable fee for this service.
* Guardianship. Senior Services provides guardianship and conservatorship to incapacitated senior adults who lack an appropriate family member or friend to serve in this capacity. There are also representative payee services, assistance and support to family members, and services to encourage planning and discussion on end-of-life issues.
* Emergency Assistance. Aid is available for seniors who find themselves in a financial emergency.
* Information and Referral. Counselors are available to provide effective assistance in helping families and individuals find the services they need. Staff will also aid in completing financial forms, paying bills, and negotiating with government agencies.
Located at 121 N. St. Asaph St., Senior Services can provide detailed information on their services and volunteer ways to help them in accomplishing their mission by calling 703-836-4414. For more information log on to their web site at www.seniorservicesalex.org.