VIDEO: Senior Services Recognized for Virtual Programs and Response to the Pandemic
Like many organizations, Forsyth County Senior Services faced new challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. But unlike most businesses, groups and other public serving entities, the majority of the department’s patrons were considered at-risk for COVID-19.
Still, Forsyth County Senior Services was able to find new ways to connect with residents. With new virtual program offerings, a Meals on Wheels program and even home “drive-bys” just to say hello and provide a friendly, smiling face, Senior Services found new ways to connect with residents when many older adults needed it most.
“We quickly realized this was not going to be over in two weeks. It was going to be a longer haul serving a more vulnerable population,” said Senior Services Director Ruthie Brew. “We had to meet residents where they were, in their homes.”
For their efforts during the pandemic, Forsyth County Senior Services received numerous recognitions from the local, state and national levels. Senior Services received the Georgia Recreation and Park Association (GRPA) Programming Network Award for developing new, online programs and a monthly newsletter that were created in response to COVID-19. The National Council on Aging recognized Senior Services for their virtual programming, specifically the tech classes and tech help offerings provided. The department was also asked to present their best practices on using the virtual space to break down barriers at the American Society on Aging’s annual conference. And, in June 2021, Forsyth County Senior Services Director Ruthie Brew was named Senior Center Director of the Year by Legacy Link.
During the 2021 State of Forsyth County event, Senior Services was also recognized for their efforts in providing meals to local seniors throughout the pandemic. Watch the video below to learn how the department found unique ways to overcome challenges presented by the pandemic to bring meals and smiles to residents.
Learn more about Forsyth County Senior Services and the department’s offerings to residents 50 years and older, click here.