[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 79 (Wednesday, May 10, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Page S1598]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE YOUNG AT HEART CENTER

  Mr. BARRASSO. Madam President, I rise today to celebrate the 50th 
anniversary of the Young at Heart Senior Citizens and Community Center 
in Rock Springs, WY. On May 19, 2023, a gala will be held at the Young 
at Heart Center to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
  The Young at Heart Center has served the Sweetwater County community 
since its founding in May, 1973. Founding board members were J. Garrett 
Smith, Louis M Groh, Ruth Lucas, T.H. Smith, Dwight J Jones, Lyda Hium, 
Elmer Halseth, Willie Heikes, and Ernest J Mecca. The center was 
originally designed to serve the senior population. With the 
construction of their new facility in 2009, their services expanded to 
address the needs of the entire community.
  The Young at Heart Center exemplifies their mission of ``a community 
place for the young and the young at heart.'' The center offers 14 
different programs with amenities, activities, and services for 
residents of all ages. Young at Heart is a safe place for Sweetwater 
County residents to gather, receive educational and nutritional 
services, pursue interests, and participate in social and recreational 
activities. The center is also a public-use space for meetings and 
events. The center serves as a cornerstone for the senior population by 
providing meals and care. Seniors participate in numerous daily 
activities that include games, hobbies, exercise, and opportunities for 
friendship.
  Young at Heart added several home health and caregiver services for 
patients 18 and older. These include skilled nursing services, personal 
care services, assistance to at-home caregivers with support and 
education, home-delivered meals, and the Senior Companion Program. Each 
of these foster wonderful relationships within the community. Many 
young people in Sweetwater County have been impacted by the Young at 
Heart's Early Learning Center. The Early Learning Center focuses on 
building children's self-esteem and self-worth through strong 
partnerships with parents. The center provides positive guidance, 
indoor and outdoor gross motor space, and technology to enhance 
learning. The importance of nutrition is highlighted by the dedicated 
kitchen staff who prepare breakfasts, lunches, and afternoon snacks.
  The Young at Heart Center receives funding through various government 
grants and private programs. They also rely on the generosity of 
Sweetwater County organizations and individuals. The Young at Heart 
Center would not be able to provide a safe and engaging space without 
the dedication of staff and volunteers. Volunteers use their skills and 
interests to help lead support groups, serve meals, assist special 
events, offer companionship, and maintain the grounds.
  Jamie Loredo began her career with the center as the activities 
coordinator and facilities secretary. In the fall of 2022, she took 
over as executive director. Her resolute dedication to the center is 
notable. She has focused on gaining community involvement, helping to 
advance the center's success. Jamie has made a significant difference 
in the lives of Sweetwater County residents.
  The wonderful staff and board members who keep the center running 
are:

       Jamie Loredo, Executive Director
       Louise Webb, Receptionist
       Brianna Romero, Early Learning Center Director
       Billie Seneshale, Director of Nursing
       Brandy Sellers-Mertin, In-Home Services Supervisor
       Gina Randolph, Access Care Coordinator
       Misty Wilson, Center Bookkeeper
       Cindy Stensgard, Home Services Bookkeeper
       Daphne Palmer, Kitchen Manager/Home Delivered Meals 
     Coordinator
       Kandi Lewis, Facility Secretary/Activities Coordinator/
     Outreach Coordinator
       Meagan Rogers, Aging Division Coordinator/ Outreach 
     Coordinator

       Board of Directors

       Diana Jessop
       Suzette Williams
       Kent Porenta
       Richard Vandersloot
       Michelle Quiroz
       Kathy Gilbert
       Wanda Bobo-Ferber
       Kevin Maloney
       Sue Riggs

       Mary Thoman, County Liaison

  It is an honor for me to recognize this significant milestone for the 
Young at Heart Center. The center serves as a gathering place where the 
Sweetwater County community can enjoy friendship and fellowship. Bobbi 
joins me in extending our congratulations to the Young at Heart Center 
on their 50th anniversary.

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