CEO’s Letter to the Community | | |
Dear Friends and Partners,
What does it truly mean to stay healthy, active, and engaged throughout life?
It is a question that resonates deeply. As the years pass, we become more aware of the people who shaped us and the neighbors who have strengthened our community over time. It also prompts us to consider how we support the older adults around us and ensure they remain connected, valued, and involved.
That commitment is at the heart of our GECAC Senior Centers. These centers are welcoming, energetic spaces where older adults build friendships, stay informed, remain physically active, and find meaningful connections. Engagement is not simply about participation. It is about purpose, belonging, and continued growth.
Personal growth does not end at a certain age. I was reminded of that when my mother earned her GED after her education was interrupted. The pride and accomplishment she felt that day left a lasting impression on me. Her determination showed me that progress is always within reach.
Today, I see that same spirit in those we serve through our Adult Education programs. Individuals are strengthening skills, advancing their education, and preparing for better opportunities. Each step forward strengthens not only their own future, but the well-being of our entire community.
At GECAC, we remain committed to opening doors at every stage of life. Thank you for standing with us and making this important work possible.
For Erie, With Erie,
Dr. Ben Wilson
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Adult Basic & Literacy Education
GECAC Opens Doors to Education At Any Age
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Second Chances, Stronger Futures
From the moment students reach out to enroll, nerves and doubts often surface. Many wonder if they can succeed. Despite fear and uncertainty, they show up, work hard, and push through the challenges of relearning old material or mastering subjects for the first time. Along the way, they face real-life barriers such as transportation issues, child care needs, illness, and changing work schedules. Our role in Adult Education is not only to teach but to listen, encourage, and help problem-solve so they can keep moving forward.
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We celebrated a man who passed his Social Studies test on his fifth attempt after two years of persistence. He enrolled in trade school just weeks later.
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We support a father who works full-time and volunteers with emergency services as he studies for his GED to keep his job.
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Last year, a mother walked across the graduation stage, supported by her son, after returning to finish what she started decades ago.
Every student has a story and a reason. Whether their goal is employment, further education, or setting an example for their children, we're here to offer support, encouragement, and an open door whenever they are ready to try again.
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Take Your Test for FREE
If you’ve been considering earning your GED, now’s your chance to do it at no cost. GECAC operates the only GED Testing Center in Erie County. Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t wait! Whether you’re pursuing a career change, further education, or want to earn your high school diploma, this is the perfect time to start.
Use promo code: PAFreeGED
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Foster Grandparents
Tutor & Mentor At-Risk Children in the Classroom
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Community members age 55+ are invited to a special free luncheon to learn how they can make a lasting difference in the life of a child through the Foster Grandparent Program.
The Foster Grandparent Program connects caring older adults with at-risk students who benefit from one-on-one attention, encouragement, and support in school classrooms. Volunteers serve as mentors and tutors, helping children build confidence, strengthen academic skills, and feel seen and valued.
Eligible participants must meet federal income guidelines, which are currently $31,900 annually for a one-person household. Foster Grandparents receive a stipend for their service.
Space is limited. Please RSVP by March 31, 2026, by calling Karen Hund at 814-459-4581, ext. 455.
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Leadership Opportunity
Serve on Our Board
| | | Are you passionate about making a difference in our community? GECAC is seeking dedicated, forward-thinking leaders to serve on our Board of Directors.
This is an exciting opportunity to lend your voice, skills, and leadership to an organization committed to empowering people and changing lives.
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Giving Tree
Nearly 500 People Received Gifts
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Haysite Management Team
Delivers Gifts
| | Thank you to everyone who made the 2025 GECAC Giving Tree such a success. Because of the generosity of churches, schools, businesses, and community members, nearly 500 seniors, children, men, and women received gifts including food, toys, clothing, coats, blankets, and essential household items. Your kindness helped bring comfort, dignity, and joy to individuals and families throughout our community. | | | | |
Thank you to our donors!
Caplug Industry
Cathedral Prep
Cathedral Prep Swim Team
Elevate Church
Erie Sight Center of NWPA
GECAC Staff
Green Scene Thrift Shop
Haysite Reinforces Plastics
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Mercyhurst Prep High School
Our Mother of Sorrows Church
Rehrig Pacific Company
Senior Helpers
St. Hedwig Church
St. Luke Church
St. Paul Lutheran Church
Sunshine Group
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Senior Centers
Healthy, Active, Engaged
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Aging Successfully: What It Really Means
The concept of aging successfully means different things to different people. Some view it as a lifelong process, while others see it as an outcome. Most agree, however, that aging successfully means being able to live independently for as long as possible and maintaining a strong connection to community and purpose.
Because GECAC has served older adults for 60 years, we understand how essential senior centers are in supporting this goal. Engagement is one of the most powerful tools seniors have to promote their own well-being. Our senior centers are intentionally designed to foster engagement socially, cognitively, emotionally, spiritually, physically, and even occupationally.
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- Keeping Seniors Active and Connected
GECAC Senior Centers help older adults remain active and involved in their communities. Through participation at our centers, seniors engage in recreational, educational, cultural, nutritional, and social activities that enrich daily life.
GECAC operates six senior centers throughout Erie County:
- Corry Senior Center
- Erie West Senior Center
- North East Senior Center
- Northwestern Senior Center in Albion
- Tri-Boro Senior Center in Fairview
- Union City Senior Center
Each location provides a welcoming space where seniors can build friendships, stay informed, and continue learning.
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The Power of Volunteerism
Volunteerism is another meaningful way seniors remain engaged and productive. In partnership with the GECAC AmeriCorps Retired Senior Volunteer Program, 180 volunteers contribute more than 9,500 hours of service each year at our centers.
Volunteering allows seniors to maintain and develop new skills, support their peers, and strengthen the programs they value. Their contributions reduce costs, and most importantly, provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
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Nutrition and Social Connection
One of the primary draws to our centers is the warm lunch. Each year, we serve approximately 32,000 meals and provide nearly 50,000 hours of socialization to 1,300 seniors.
Proper nutrition is a key factor in aging successfully. In partnership with community organizations, we provide ongoing nutrition education throughout the year. Beyond meals, staff coordinate daily programming, special events, outings, guest speakers, educational classes, and seasonal celebrations that keep our centers vibrant and engaging.
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Supporting Health and Wellness
Seniors improve their health and expand their health knowledge by participating in evidence-based programs offered at our centers. We strive to provide a balanced selection of programs that align with the Department of Aging’s goals for older adults.
Programs include:
- Chronic Disease Self-Management Program
- Healthy Steps for Older Adults
- Arthritis Foundation Exercise Class
- Arthritis Foundation Walk with Ease
- Blood pressure screenings
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Happy Social Work Month
Uplift, Defend, Transform
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At GECAC, our case workers, instructors, and program directors are the backbone of our community programs. Every day, they meet challenges with compassion, expertise, and unwavering dedication, helping clients navigate complex systems, access vital resources, and achieve meaningful outcomes.
This month, we extend our deepest thanks to these remarkable professionals. Your work, often behind the scenes, changes lives, uplifts families, and strengthens the Erie community. From connecting seniors with essential services to supporting families in times of need, your impact is felt in every corner of the county.
To our staff: your commitment, resilience, and care do not go unnoticed. GECAC is grateful for your tireless efforts and is proud to have you on our team.
| | | Our March Senior Meet Up will be a full day of fun, learning, and nostalgia at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center. Join us for the Senior Festival at 10:30 AM. Our group will gather in the lobby for a photo and prizes. You can explore the discovery stations at your own pace and enjoy Flashbacks: A Boomer Time Warp, a rotating slideshow of songs, movies, commercials, and pop culture memories that takes you back in time. | | |
Now Hiring
Join Our Mission to Build a Better Future!
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Phone: (814) 459-4581
Senior Helpline: (814) 459-4581 Ext. 400
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