After more than a decade of service to the Hillsboro Senior Center, Kermit Ratzlaff, president of the board, retired in early January.
Replacing him as president was Ray Matz with Charles Rempel serving as vice-president.
To honor his contributions to the center, a celebration is planned from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, April 19, at the center, 212 N. Main St.
In addition to the many challenges over the years, a lot of positive things have occurred as well, Ratzlaff said.
One of the most important aspects of any non-profit organization is the volunteers.
?It has been satisfying as a board member to see and know all the volunteer help that was given (at the center),? he said. ?We also have a good director and a good composition on the board.?
A major objective of Hills?boro?s center is giving people an opportunity to interact and participate in recreational events, according to Ratzlaff.
?Of course, getting five nourishing meals each week and educational programs seniors can get involved with and interested in (is also important),? he said.
One change during his years as board president was the adoption of a new constitution, which spelled out in more detail the terms of officers on the board and provided needed updates.
In his more than 10 years on the board, Ratzlaff said he has seen a decline in the number of people utilizing the center and in funding.
Hillsboro Senior Center receives county and state financial support, along with donations from individuals and proceeds from fundraising events. Last year, it was awarded a $2,250 grant by the Hillsboro Community Foundation.
?That grant was a big help last year,? he said.
Challenges facing the new board will continue to be money, Ratzlaff said, noting the board has needed to dip into its cash reserves for the past few years.
Another change has been in the number of people frequenting the facility.
?Several years ago, there was a big decline in people coming to the senior center,? he said, ?but in the last couple of years, and even in the past six months, it?s been fairly stable.?
Ratzlaff said he?s grateful to the other board members with whom he has served: ?The board was cooperative, enjoyable and responsible.?
Ratzlaff said he is confident, and glad to leave during a time when there are so many qualified and skillful members on the board.
The public is welcome to attend the celebration recognizing Ratzlaff and the center?s volunteers.
For information about the center, call Brenda Moss at 947-2304.
