Bingo returns to the Emporia Senior Center this week as the facility continues work to solidify its financial future.
Bingo will take place Tuesday at 7 pm. It has been suspended since late October as the Senior Center continues grappling with the financial impacts of several situations, most recently including inflationary pressures and equipment repair costs, but also including several COVID-19-related closures the past two-plus years, lower overall attendance and the embezzlement of over $100,000 by former director Lannie Lyman. The center suspended all activities in early November, canceled its Christmas Gala last month and laid off all its paid staff, including President and CEO Ian Boyd, who is currently serving his current duties as a volunteer.
There has been some good news on the fundraising side. By mid-November, the center had raised over $50,000 with a goal of $100,000 to meet a range of immediate needs, and Boyd says the projected deficit is now between $4,000 to $15,000 with three weeks remaining in the calendar and fiscal year. Boyd says the annual Angels Tree fundraiser, which lets people honor or remember somebody for a $5 donation, is currently underway. Fundraising luncheons will return on a bi-weekly basis in January.
Boyd also says volunteers are needed, especially with the return of volunteer tax preparation in conjunction with the AARP Foundation.
Residents can call 620-343-3160 to learn more about donating to the center or volunteering for different activities. The center is open from 9 am to 1 pm weekdays or by appointment.
