Interview with Lou Ann Pioli, Senior Activities Coordinator
The Essex Area Senior Center (EASC) is located in a delightfully cozy space in the heart of the Five Corners. When I entered the building, I was immediately greeted by the smell of baked goods and freshly brewed coffee. Senior Activities Coordinator Lou Ann Pioli warmly welcomed me, and we sat down to discuss the Center and what happens here. Lou Ann told me that the EASC offers approximately 12-15 programs per week. Some of the most popular programs include luncheons, bingo, seated yoga, and day trips. Lou Ann hopes to make the Center a “home away from home” for area seniors, and said that she often incorporates new programs based on member suggestions.
In approximately three years, the EASC has more than tripled its membership, from 100 members in 2015 to 305 members in 2018. Many of these members come from other communities throughout Chittenden County and are attracted by the full range of programs offered at the EASC.
The EASC is located at 2 Lincoln Street, sharing a building with the Village Offices and CHIPS. To learn more, please visit the EASC on the web at http://www.essexvtseniors.org/ or give Lou Ann a ring at 876-5087. However, the best way to learn about the center is just to stop in, enjoy a cup of coffee and some good conversation.
The EASC is currently running their biggest fundraisers of the year: the annual fall silent auction. The walls of the Center are filled on all four sides with items including restaurant gift cards, Vermont Teddy Bears, and specialty home furnishings. All bids start at half of the item’s value, and the raffle concludes at the Five Corner’s Craft Festival on November 10th. Everyone is invited to come to the Center during regular business hours (10 AM-4 PM, Monday-Friday) or stop by during the Craft Festival from 9 AM-3PM on Saturday.
Why Essex? “Essex is one of the most supportive communities for seniors in the state. We have an active, inviting Senior Center, free local transportation for residents over 60 via the Essex Senior Van, incredible support and collaboration from the municipalities, schools, churches, and business community, and, as an added bonus, Age Well, our region’s agency on aging is located here.” -Lou Ann Pioli
Why Essex? is a weekly(ish) column highlighting the people and places that make Essex an interesting and special place. Have an idea for the column? E-mail Darby Mayville at darby@essexjunction.org.
Photo Credits: Essex Area Senior Center