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The University of Maine Center on Aging has received a $1.3 million grant from the Corporation for National and Community Services for AmeriCorps*VISTA members to educate Maine’s senior citizens.
Established in November of 2001, the Center on Aging works to achieve both mental and financial well-being of senior citizens in Maine and nationwide.
“We want [senior citizens] to make the most they can from the precious few dollars they have,” said Dr. Lenard Kaye, center director.
Of the 40 applications submitted to the Corporation for National Community Service, the Center on Aging was one of the six winning organizations. Kaye said winning this grant with so many competing programs was a “long shot.”
“We were very delighted and honored to accept the award,” Kaye said. “Money is scarce, and this award will make a big difference.”
The grant will fund the living allowances and training necessary for 30 Americorps*VISTA members to team up with the center to help low-income senior citizens manage their finances. Kaye said Maine has the third-largest population of senior citizens, who are often the target of abuse and scams. The center’s Senior $ense program is designed to turn older adults into what Kaye calls “a more savvy consumer.”
“This program is definitely a feather in the cap of UMaine,” Kaye said.
Along with money management courses, a Web site will be created that can be accessed nationwide by senior citizens who need financial, consumer or employment resources.
Kaye credits the program’s success to Americorps*VISTA members. He said he encourages graduating seniors to consider the opportunities the Americorps*VISTA program provides.
“You will not necessarily be financially enriched; however, you will certainly be emotionally enriched,” he said. “What’s the hurry to get into the work force; you have your whole life to work.”
