The Addison Senior Center is welcoming a new face ? Mary Alayne Williams, of Oxford, officially started as the center’s new senior hostess on June 16.
‘I’m looking forward to increasing the activities and increasing the number of people that attend the center,? said Williams about her new position. ‘A lot of the individuals here are homebodies, so we want them to come out and enjoy each others company and just get out of the house.?
Williams and her husband Michael, a drywall contractor, have lived in the Oxford area for about 15 years. The couple has three children ? Haley, 12, Nathan, 10 and Jonathan, 6.
The new senior hostess has a bachelor’s degree from Oakland University in human services.
In addition to her new position in Addison, she is a member chaplain of the International Fellowship of Chaplains based in Saginaw, and is studying at the Lavern Joyce School of Ministry. She also works part-time as a substitute teacher for Substitute Teachers Unlimited based in Warren and the Lapeer Intermediate School District.
When looking ahead at her new position, Williams said her primary goal is going to be maintaining the camaraderie between the community and senior center.
‘Getting them to work together is a challenge sometimes,? she explained. ‘There are some proven positive programs, such as in the schools, but I think there are a lot of other areas we can tap into for the benefit of everyone.?
Williams said her favorite part about the job is spending time with the seniors.
‘These seniors are just full of life,? she said. ‘They are always happy to see you every day.
‘I really enjoy their enthusiasm – there are days they pick me up. Life is so fast paced with everyone trying to get everywhere as quickly as possible, they help me to stop and just enjoy the moment.?
‘She understands seniors,? concluded senior aid Eileen McCarrick. ‘She’s very fair. She’s very special. She’s well liked in here. It takes a good person to understand a person in here.?
Williams said the next big activity she is helping to plan is the Addison Senior Center Rummage Sale. The sale is scheduled for September 9 and 10 from 9 a.m. ? 1 p.m. Organizers will be accepting donations right up until the event.
In addition, the center offers free health aids to any senior in need. Just a few of the aids available include walkers, wheel chairs, crutches and shower seats.
‘We have residents who donate these items to the center all the time, so we always have a healthy supply of them,? said Williams. ‘A lot of seniors don’t realize what’s available here for them.?
For more information about the senior center or the rummage sale, please contact Williams at 248-628-3388.