2012-11-26 Community Center Task Force Final Report

Browse Search

The conclusions drawn by the teen center committee say that that teens want and need: • Direct voice in programming decisions • Unstructured, unprogrammed time for socializing • Opportunity for meaningful adult contact • Their own space with a separate entrance • Space for physical activities: non -team sports, yoga, foosball, etc. • Almost half of the respondents indicated their wish to be able to walk to such a facility Community Interviews We wanted to learn what town experts believe to be the needs of Lexington's citizens. To do this we focused on the departments that provide direct services to the community, as well as community leaders who have expertise in particular areas. Human Services (Charlotte Rodgers, Director) The Human Services Department offices are in the Lexington Senior Center. It is responsible for the operation and programming of the Lexington Senior Center as well as Senior Services, Youth Services, Family & Human Services, Veterans Services, and Transportation Services /Lexpress. Working with municipal departments, community groups, and service providers, the department coordinates social services for all Lexington residents. Problems • They serve the entire Lexington population in space restricted to serving seniors only, between 8:30am and 4:30pm Monday through Friday • Inadequate space and accessibility • Isolated location • Lack of programming for active seniors Needs • Confidential counseling space meeting professional ethics requirements • Evening and weekend hours November 26, 2012 Final Report 10