NISC Programs of Excellence 

• Year Awarded: 2026
• Programs of Excellence Name: Senior Center on the Move
• Hosting Organization: Amherst Center for Senior Services, Amherst, New York

About Senior Center on the Move

Senior Center on the Move is an outreach initiative developed by the social work team at the Amherst Center for Senior Services to bring information, connection, and a preview of the center's programs directly to older adults where they already gather.

"This program flips the traditional model by meeting older adults in familiar, comfortable settings and introducing the center as a welcoming lifestyle resource," said Melissa Abel, Director of Amherst Center for Senior Services. "The program was created to address a common challenge faced by many senior centers: older adults who could benefit from programs and services may be unaware of what is available, unsure how to get started, or hesitant to visit a new space. This is especially true for individuals living in senior housing, those newly retired, or those experiencing isolation or transitions. Senior Center on the Move removes these barriers by offering personal, face-to-face engagement in trusted environments.

"Through this program, members of our social work team visit senior living complexes, community rooms, and other places where older adults naturally gather. Each visit includes informal conversations, information sharing, and sample activities that reflect offerings at the center, such as light movement, games, wellness discussions, or social engagement activities. These hands-on experiences allow participants to see themselves participating, rather than just hearing about programs in abstract terms."

"The primary beneficiaries are older adults who may not yet be connected to the center, including those who are socially isolated, unfamiliar with senior center programming, or unsure how the center fits into their lifestyle. Participants benefit from learning about available programs, support services, nutrition options, and social opportunities in a low-pressure, friendly setting. Many attendees later visit the Center, join programs, or connect with social work services as a result of these visits.

"For the senior center, Senior Center on the Move expands visibility, strengthens community relationships, and builds trust with new audiences," Abel said. "It has also fostered meaningful partnerships with senior housing providers and community organizations, creating ongoing opportunities for collaboration. Most importantly, the program reinforces the center’s mission by ensuring that support, connection, and engagement are accessible to older adults wherever they are—not just within the walls of the center."

Key takeaways from Senior Center on the Move:

• By meeting older adults where they already gather, Senior Center on the Move reduces hesitation and uncertainty about engaging with senior center programs. 
• The program fosters meaningful social interaction through sample activities and conversation, helping participants feel welcomed and included.
• Participants receive timely, accurate information about programs, services, and support resources in a personalized setting.

About Amherst Center for Senior Services

Amherst Center for Senior Services describes itself as "a premier destination for older adults 50+ seeking an active lifestyle in Amherst, New York. We offer enriching programs, engaging classes, vibrant clubs, essential support services, nutritious dining options, and more—all designed to help you stay active, connected, and inspired."