Senior Resource Association history

In 1975, programs serving seniors separated from HELP and became what was eventually named Senior Services of Island County.

In 1979, the City built a new Law Enforcement Building near the Courthouse, and the building on Vermont was designated as the home of the Lawrence Senior Center.

The building was dedicated to Suzanne Patterson in 1985, and opened as the senior center for Princeton.

With a grant from the United Way, the HomeFriends program started in 1987 as a friendly visitor program, matching homebound elderly with trained volunteers.

After several years, it was recognized by many that it would be sensible to combine the Suzanne Patterson Center with the Senior Resource Center, thus giving one organization the responsibility for programs and services to all seniors in Princeton, accomplished in 1994.

The LINK (Local Intergenerational Network of Kindness) Program was developed in 1995 out of the former Youth Employment Service.

In 1996 Jocelyn Helm retired as founder and Executive director.

In 1997 over 60 community members from Princeton participated in the accreditation self-assessment process, developing action plans for short and long-term goals.

Fundraising events continued to provide more revenue and in 1999 a development consultant was hired.

In 2000 PSRC published the booklet, “Alternative Living Arrangements for Seniors,” which detailed information about Assisted Living and CCRCs in the Greater Princeton area as these residential communities proliferated.

The new space was ready for occupancy in Spring of 2003 with new classrooms and office space, new lighting, and new furnishings.

In October 2006, PSRC was awarded the Community Spirit Award by Princeton Human Services in recognition of our efforts with inclusivity and of seniors.

In 2009, PSRC assumed oversight of the Crosstown transportation program, a car service for seniors funded by the Municipality of Princeton.

The last print Resource Directory was published in 2011; it is now on the website.

In September 2014, PSRC celebrated its 40th anniversary with a gala, at which it was announced that Princeton had received designation as the first Age Friendly Community in NJ by the WHO and AARP. A Task Group was formed to develop a Community Action Plan for Princeton.

In 2015 the Engaged Retirement program was reduced in scope due to lack of funding and reduced participation.