For six decades, The Senior Source has provided those in Dallas who are 60 and older with programs and resources to ensure financial and emotional well-being. This year, the vital nonprofit turns 60 itself — and as most do on birthdays, the organization is reflecting on its six decades of service to the community.
The Senior Source aims to assist Dallas County’s growing population of senior citizens. According to the 2010 U.S. Census, it is estimated that the number of people over 65 in Dallas County will double to 470,000 by 2030. That same census also discovered that individuals 85 to 94 years old are the fastest growing group in the country.
However, this generation faces a wide range of challenges, from nursing home quality to scams targeting the elderly. According to United Health Foundation’s 2021 America’s Health Ranking report, Texas is ranked 48th in the country for nursing home quality. Additionally, older adults lose $3.6 billion annually due to financial exploitation. With so few organizations dedicated to helping the aging populace, The Senior Source takes immense pride in the invaluable work it offers to Dallas seniors.
From the past to the present
In 1961, The Senior Source was originally founded as Senior Citizens Foundation of Dallas. During its first year of operation, the organization served 470 older adults in the community and as time went on, added many programs that contributed to its success. A notable resource includes its unique Elder Financial Safety Center that opened in 2014 and aims to financially empower older adults. By 2020, the number of older adults served had skyrocketed to 18,000 seniors, along with educating 32,000 older adults and their families on topics ranging from resume building to family caregiving.
As the leading resource for all age-related issues in greater Dallas, older adults and their loved ones trust The Senior Source to provide expert assistance and guidance on topics like financial security, nursing homes, employment, volunteering and so much more. Focused on delivering its vision of Making Older Better, the nonprofit strives to help clients improve their financial situations, boost their emotional well-being and give them an increased sense of purpose and connection.
“Through the Caregiver Support Group, I’ve learned about so many other services that The Senior Source provides,” shares Suzette, a client of The Senior Source. “Whether you need a support group or a job or to understand what kind of insurance you need, I call The Senior Source. I tell everyone I meet, everyone needs a Senior Source in their back pocket.”
Meeting current needs
For 60 years, The Senior Source has established itself as an organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of older adults in Dallas. However, the needs of seniors today have vastly changed since 1961, and The Senior Source has continually risen to the challenge. The Senior Source saw the need for technology training to ensure older adults remained an active part of society. During the pandemic, the organization moved many of its programs online and began offering virtual classes and workshops. The group continues hosting digital events as well as ones in person that are socially distanced and safe for all participants.
While its purpose remains constant, The Senior Source has also evolved with the times by offering emotional and financial services to help older adults age with dignity. Programs span from technology classes and resume workshops to organizing opportunities for seniors to volunteer and give back to the community. Furthermore, the nonprofit provides much-needed guidance that individuals and their families need to navigate the overwhelming worlds of caregiving, nursing homes and aging overall.
Enriching lives since 1961
A 60th birthday is a milestone for any person or organization. As many of The Senior Source’s clients celebrate their own landmark birthdays, this nonprofit is excited to celebrate six decades of bringing renewed purpose, assistance and comfort to older adults and caregivers.
As the senior population of Dallas continues to grow, The Senior Source vows to continue its invaluable work of assisting seniors in need. To learn how you can get involved, visit The Senior Source online and make a donation today.