The National Center to Reframe Aging joined a Pennsylvania Department of Aging-hosted Community Conversation in Philadelphia on June 10 to showcase research and communication guidance from the National Center that are helping maximize the potential of senior community centers as vibrant community spaces — similar to libraries or parks — where older adults can stay active and independent.

Senior community centers provide a wide range of services, from social programs to health resources, yet often face misconceptions that hinder public investment. A partnership between the National Center and the Pennsylvania Department of Aging is bridging that gap by creating evidence-based communication strategies, tools, and insights that empower advocates to tell a more accurate and compelling story about the role of senior centers in Pennsylvania communities. The research was informed by input from a representative sample of Pennsylvania residents.

“This investment from the Pennsylvania Department of Aging is kickstarting a national conversation on senior community centers, and setting a groundbreaking example for other states in highlighting their importance and value,” said National Center Executive Director Patricia M. “Trish” D'Antonio, BSPharm, MS, MBA, BCGP. “Our recommendations can help organizations and policymakers increase awareness, reduce stigma, expand participation, and strengthen public support for senior community centers.”

During the Community Conversation, Pennsylvania Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich shared that the National Center has been a key ally in helping advocates, families, and community leaders better communicate about the value of senior community centers and promote policies that support their continued growth and relevance.

"We are looking at how we work with senior community centers all across Pennsylvania in a very different way, by educating ourselves on what people want us to be approaching them with, and why they are not participating at our senior centers at the levels that we have seen the older population grow,” Kavulich said. “We've tried to rebrand for over a decade. We've tried different approaches. And everyone continues to be at the table to try and find a solution. Now that we're taking a step back and understanding the ‘why’ behind it all, understanding new approaches, we can reach those people in communities.”

D’Antonio and Kavulich were joined by Renee Cunningham, president of the Pennsylvania Association of Senior Centers and Executive Director of Center in the Park, a senior community center located in Philadelphia’s Germantown neighborhood.

“This is a defining moment for senior centers. There will be a before and after this project,” Cunningham said. “Senior community centers have spent years trying different approaches to rebranding and communicating our value, but this research finally helps us understand what has been missing. The work has always been there. What changes now is our ability to talk about that work in ways that resonate, inspire action, and not only help more people see our centers as essential community assets, but also see themselves in senior community centers.”