Senior center director addresses change in administration

BONNERS FERRY — The senior center is moving forward, Linda Lederhos, new Seniors Hospitality Center director, said Friday, June 28, as she addressed changes at the organization and what happens next.

Lederhos was appointed to the position after the previous director was fired. Since taking over, she said she has been focusing on rectifying any issues and moving forward in a positive direction. 

Lederhos has over 40 years of nonprofit experience, having owned several businesses over the years, as well as running a zoo for 23 years. 

The transition of directors has not adversely affected the day-to-day running of the center and the community has been very supportive since she stepped into the position, Lederhos said.

“People are coming out of the woodwork to help,” Lederhos added, regarding the support received. 

Two of the biggest changes have been the change in hours, which is now 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and the new phone number, 208-267-4421.

Bingo is back up and running and there are several other events on the center’s calendar. Mexican train dominoes, pinochle, pool tournaments, art and fitness classes are all just some of the available activities. The center is always open to anyone who would like to lead a class or volunteer in some manner. 

“I want our calendar full,” Lederhos said about the activities schedule. 

The past year or two the previous administration had not been asking for membership. The center has now begun offering membership again. The cost is $5 for a membership card and the only requirement is that you must be a senior. Memberships renew on an annual basis. 

Lunches are served on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. For lunch guests over 60 years of age, the center asks that a $5 donation be provided. Those under 60 are required to pay an $8 fee. 

While the center receives some money to help pay for the cost of food, much of it comes from its own funds.“We don’t get the food for free and I think that is a misconception that some people have,” Lederhos said

The center has a current elected board, with elections set for September.

Volunteers are always welcome to help out in any way, such as teaching classes, leading activities, helping with lunch or any of the other many jobs that they may have a need for. Currently officials are looking for someone to help with picking up food from Safeway on Tuesdays and Fridays. 

All volunteers and staff at the center are vetted through a background check, to ensure the safety of seniors and the other volunteers and staff.  

Lederhos added that they are in dire need of a stove, estimated to cost $9,000. They are also in need of a heating and cooling unit, estimated at $20,000, as the current one is barely getting them by in the winter and summer. 

As far as funds that have been raised or donated, Lederhos assured that there will be a spreadsheet tracking every dollar.