CEO’s Letter to the Community | | |
Dear Friend,
Each morning, as I drive to work, I reflect not just on the meetings and tasks ahead, but also on the people who bring our mission at GECAC to life. Passing by schools, businesses, and neighborhoods reminds me of how deeply connected we all are.
When I talk about GECAC, I always emphasize that our mission is more than just words. As a realist, I see the challenges we face: tightening budgets, shifting regulations, and increasing community needs. However, I am not discouraged; I am determined. In fact, we at GECAC are resolute in our mission.
We have faced challenges in the past. Over the decades, GECAC has weathered economic shifts, changing policies, and uncertain funding. Yet, through it all, our commitment to the people of Erie County has never wavered.
That is why we will continue to advocate for our families and neighbors. We will seek the resources they need, and we will innovate, adapt, and lead. Progress is not achieved by avoiding hardship but by rising to meet it with compassion and courage.
When I drive through Erie County, I don’t just see streets and buildings. I see potential. I see a future worth investing in. And I see a community that, when united, can achieve truly incredible things.
Thank you for being a part of this community, for believing in GECAC for 60 years, and for standing with us as we continue this journey of impact and transformation.
Together, we are building something stronger.
Together, we are GECAC.
Our Community in Action,
Dr. Ben Wilson
| | |
Sixty years ago, a significant movement began in Erie County—one that forever transformed our understanding of self-sufficiency, advocacy, and opportunities for those in need. As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of GECAC, we reflect on our impact, resilience, and the countless lives we have touched.
Mark your calendars and plan on joining us for our 60th Anniversary Celebration! The event committee is busily planning a delicious menu, signature cocktails, interactive history display, and recognition of the local elected officials, thought leaders, and representatives from the education, health, manufacturing, and faith communities, who established GECAC as the premier anti-poverty organization in Erie County. Additionally, the committee is excited to announce our keynote speakers and to officially introduce our new CEO, Dr. Ben Wilson.
We invite you to join us to celebrate and be part of our efforts going forward as we launch even more responsive services, more impactful partnerships, and more successful opportunities for our community.
| | GECAC Launches New Webinar Series | | Join us for a virtual discussion on ways to close the wealth disparity gap and create a more equitable society for all. Our speakers will share their insights and experiences on this important topic. Let's come together to learn, inspire, and take action towards a better future for all. Don't miss out on this opportunity to make a difference! Register now to secure your spot. | |
| | |
Throughout Erie County, we are looking for people excited by our vision to work toward a better future for our community by stabilizing households and promoting self-sufficiency.
| | | | Tee Off for Impact: Golf with a Purpose | |
Join us for a premier golf experience that does more than deliver a great day on the green — it drives real change. Our beloved annual classic brings together passionate players and community champions to support essential services in aging, housing, education, and employment for over 20,000 low-income families across Erie County.
| | |
33rd R. Benjamin Wiley & Walter Osborne Memorial Golf Classic
Thursday, June 26, 2025
- Venango Valley Inn & Golf Course, 21217 Church Street, Venango, PA 16440
- Registration……….10 am
- Shotgun Start……….11 am
- Awards Banquet……….5 pm
| | Upward Bound Summer Academy | | |
Each year, 74 students from Erie High School and Perseus House Charter School of Excellence are prepared for college through various academic and social experiences. GECAC's Upward Bound program is a pre-college enrichment initiative designed to assist low-income and/or first-generation college students in advancing their education beyond high school.
Our program offers a range of academic services aimed at developing the skills and motivation needed for success in high school and, ultimately, for enrolling in college.
| | |
Frank DelleCurti
Program Director
| | |
During the Academic Year
- Weekly meetings with the Upward Bound Academic Specialist
- Two Saturday sessions a month (November-May) at Mercyhurst University, with free bus service provided.
-
Enrichment classes in math, science, English, and foreign languages, along with awareness workshops and homework tutoring sessions at Mercyhurst University.
-
Free lunch at the Grotto Commons Dining Hall.
| |  | |
During the Summer Academy
- Living on campus at Mercyhurst University for six weeks, with free bus service provided.
- Math and science classes.
- Activities in the evenings include sports, crafts, games, movies, and video game nights.
-
Field trips to other college campuses and cultural sites which include free meals.
- Three-day trip with expenses covered.
| | GECAC Older Adult Protective Service | | |
Older people are mistreated more often than we think due to the lack of support for older people in our communities. It doesn’t have to be this way. Get involved in creating a stronger society that safeguards our communities and prevents abuse.
Report Elder Abuse Now!
Daytime Hotline: (Monday-Friday)
(814) 459-4581 ext. 205
Evening/Weekend Hotline:
(814) 451-1520
Statewide 24-Hour Toll-Free Hotline:
1-800-490-8505
| | Rent Assistance for Erie Homeless | | GECAC has rent assistance available now! We are here to help you with your deposit and first month's rent. If you are homeless and live in the City of Erie, call Erie County Care Management (ECCM) to be assessed and referred to GECAC at (814) 743-5837. | | Free Fruit & Vegetables for Seniors | | |
GECAC's Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program aims to provide low-income seniors with access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs. In 2024, the GECAC Area Agency on Aging, in partnership with the PA Department of Agriculture, distributed $180,000 worth of fruit and vegetable vouchers to 3,600 seniors in Erie County.
The Senior Farmers' Market Vouchers will be available at six locations throughout Erie County. Low-income seniors aged 60 and older (for example, an individual in a household with an income of up to $28,953) can receive $25 vouchers. These vouchers allow them to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at local farmers' markets.
Erie residents can pick up vouchers at the Bayfront Convention Center on June 30, 2025, between 9 AM and 4 PM. To see more events happening throughout the county, please visit the link below. Additional information is available on our Senior Farmers' Market webpage.
| |
Donate to GECAC During Erie Gives
Tansforming Lives and Erie County
| | |
MAKE A LASTING IMPACT.
DONATE TO GECAC THROUGH ERIE GIVES
GECAC’s adult education programs have offered a second chance for those who did not complete high school or who need to address gaps in their education. Whether a person is working at minimum wage, an older adult searching for a job, or someone who has recently lost their employment, GECAC helps with emergency needs and assists individuals and families to achieve self-sufficiency.
| | |
GED Testing Center
GECAC operates the only GED® test site in Erie County. As Erie County's anti-poverty agency, GECAC understands that obtaining the GED® credential is the first step toward self-sufficiency and a way out of poverty.
| | | |
Adult Basic Education Classes
Adult Education and GED Preparation classes welcome adults who wish to enhance their basic reading and math skills and prepare for the GED Exam. When parents are engaged in education, it has a powerful impact on their children.
| | | |
May is Older Americans Month, a time to recognize older Americans' contributions, highlight aging trends, and reaffirm our commitment to serving older adults.
The 2025 theme, Flip the Script on Aging, focuses on transforming how society perceives, talks about, and approaches aging. It encourages individuals and communities to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions. This year, join us in honoring older adults’ contributions, exploring the many opportunities for staying active and engaged as we age, and highlighting the opportunities for purpose, exploration, and connection that come with aging.
| |
Phone: (814) 459-4581
Senior Helpline: (814) 459-4581 Ext. 400
| | | | |
