Senior center helps build friendships

PHIL CAMPBELL — From eight to 10 seniors regularly participate in the meals, activities and social opportunities at the senior center, but there’s always room for more.

Center manager Sherry McIlwain said one of the biggest challenges is making sure local seniors know the center exists.

“A lot of senior citizens don’t even know that it’s here,” McIlwain said.

Participants say it’s the friendships formed there that are what keep them coming back.

Marie Mrock-Johnston said attending the center led her to meet her husband, Hewitt Johnston. They go to the center together, and they have been married for 21 years.

Margaret Cooper, who has been going to the center for about a year, said it has become part of her daily routine.

“I get up, get ready and come every day,” Cooper said.

She said participants spend time playing cards, talking, and enjoying each other’s company.

Bingo is among the center’s most popular activities.

“People love bingo,” McIlwain said. “It’s the number one game.”

Kimberly Parrish said she and her husband, Tony, learned about the center through Phil Campbell City Hall.

“We decided we needed to get out of the house,” Parrish said.

Tony Parrish said one of the things he enjoys most about the center is the opportunity to spend time with other people.

Susan Coke of Alabama Hospice, who regularly helps with bingo activities at the center, said the social benefits are just as important as the games.

“People can come here, make lifelong friends and just be around people,” Coke said.

Virginia Burks, Phil Campbell town clerk and magistrate, said the center plays an important role in the community.

“It’s a very vital asset in our community,” Burks said. “It helps people get to know each other, especially new people who move in.”

McIlwain said people who qualify may receive free transportation to and from the center through NACOLG, and she can help them apply.

NACOLG also offers transportation to medical appointments and grocery stores through a separate fee-based service.

Volunteers are welcome, and McIlwain encouraged seniors who may be unfamiliar with the center to learn more about the programs available.

For information, call the Phil Campbell Senior Center at 205-993-4223.