The Sally Hill Pavilion is on its Way!
On July 25th, ASAC hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the Senior Activity Center Pavilion Project. The pavilion will be built on the northeast side of the Center property. The area was originally designated as a children’s playground for an early learning center that was operated in two rooms that are now used for regular programming.
In April 2021, Center Administrative Assistant Lea DeVere, acting as interim manager after Sally Hill retired, presented Parks and Recreation Director Jonn Lunsford the idea of removing the fencing and playground equipment as a way of enhancing the Center’s program offerings and providing a safe and comfortable space for seniors to gather. In spring 2022, the playground structures and fencing were removed. A staff committee was formed to consider ideas for improving the space, and a survey was offered to determine our participants’ vision for an outdoor space. Several ideas were explored, including an outdoor senior playground with exercise equipment or a combination of exercise equipment and seating. In the end, respondents voted for a covered area with café-style seating.
In March 2023 Center staff identified a contractor who could perform the work and help us with the site plan and building design. In May 2023, the Foundation agreed to fund the project and a contract was approved by City Council on July 17.
The Center is envision this to be a space where seniors thrive, a place where the community can benefit from the outdoors while being protected from harsh elements such as rain and direct sunlight. A place for music, celebrations, game play, presentations, socialization, or perhaps getting acquainted with a good book.
The Senior Center extends their gratitude to Mayor Miller, City Council and Parks and Recreation for their support, and to ASAC participants who contributed their feedback to influence the design of the pavilion. We all, the ASAC and the ASAC Foundation are incredibly grateful to you, the donors, who generously contributed to the project at the spring gala fundraiser.
Work will be completed by our 50th anniversary celebration on Saturday, September 30th. At that time, the pavilion will be dedicated to long-time ASAC Administrator, Sally Hill
You Can Help
The ASAC hours are 9am-4pm to serve the seniors of Anacortes. The Center has something for everyone...activities, lunch, classes, connecting with friends as well as making new ones.
With your donation you can help with expenses needed to support our activities and classes, expand our social phone call program and help with continuing operational expenses required to keep the building functioning well.