PALM’s New Temporary Location

It’s official! After years of planning and anticipation, the Center for Positive Aging in Lower Merion (PALM) will temporarily close for major renovations from Monday, December 2, 2024, through the end of January 2026.

PALM is now temporarily located at the Ardmore Community Center, 122 Ardmore Avenue, Ardmore, PA 19003, beginning December 11, 2024 (tentatively), just off the corner of Spring and Ardmore Avenues. You can still reach us at 610-642-9370 or via email at [email protected]

ACTIVITIES Available 5 Days A Week

Center for Positive Aging in Lower Merion

Activities center for active adults 55 years of age and older

Phone

(610) 642-9370
(610) 642-8873 Fax

Address

117 Ardmore Ave.
Ardmore, PA 19003

Hours

Monday-Friday:
9am – 3pm

December 2, 2024, marks our annual Giving Tuesday Campaign. We’re thrilled to announce that PALM’s Secret Santa, who donates annually, has generously contributed $500 to kick off the campaign! We invite you join in and donate today and help PALM reach our 2024 goal of $39,000.

By “Giving” to PALM, you directly make a difference in the lives of older adults. Your “Giving” helps provide:

  • $6.95: One meal for an older adult.
  • $34.75: Five meals for one week.
  • $139.00: Meals for an older adult for the entire month.

No donation is too large or small. Please join us this Giving Tuesday and help us continue to support the older adults in our community.

PALM Annual Campaign

Campaign Close and Announcement of Amount Raised

Wednesday, November 20, 2024, 11AM – 1PM

Created using the Donation Thermometer plugin https://wordpress.org/plugins/donation-thermometer/.$39,000Raised $5,265 towards the $39,000 target.$5,265Raised $5,265 towards the $39,000 target.14%

Welcome to PALM

We Offer a Positive & Engaging Environment

Founded in 1974 The Center for Positive Aging in Lower Merion dba PALM (formerly known as The Senior Citizens Center of Ardmore), is a 501 (C) 3 nonprofit organization created to improve the quality of life for Active Aging Adults.

PALM provides robust and innovative programs through services, resources, and partnerships in support of Older Adults, their families, caregivers, and community members, to support healthy and independent living.

PALM’s partnerships span generations, and ethnicities, that allow us to foster inclusive and innovative programming where we celebrate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and champion advancements in technology for Older Adults.

Using the latest and most advanced technology, PALM enables Older Adults to succeed and thrive through both virtual and onsite exercise activities, social interaction, recreation, education, arts and entertainment, volunteerism, and community activism.

Your donation helps support PALM’s mission to our seniors.

Mission

To assist adults 55 years of age and older to maintain a healthy, satisfying quality of life by providing services and activities in a nurturing environment that enables them to function more independently in the community. The Center is an advocate of unmet needs of older adults and is a repository of information to assure them their rights, benefits and opportunities.

Vision

The Center for Positive Aging in Lower Merion (PALM) will be widely known for supporting positive aging and independence with dignity to older adults. We will be a resource and cultural Center, continuously expanding services and growing membership with an effective Board, staff and financial stability. Our staff and volunteers will engage in partnerships with public agencies, private businesses and applicable institutions to support older adults through programs and activities to:

*Advocate for rights and benefits;

*Create/promote opportunities to optimize health and welfare;

*Increase community outreach initiatives;

*Maximize life enrichment opportunities.

Goals

*To advance the well being of older adults by providing activities and programs which promote healthy lifestyles and independence so that older adults can Age in Place safely and with dignity.

*To advocate for unmet needs of older adults.

*To act as a repository of information regarding the rights, benefits and opportunities for older adults.

*To provide opportunities and encourage continued learning and creativity.

*To recognize the dignity and strength and wisdom of adults 55 and older.

*To promote collaborative relationships between area agencies providing services to older adults, local government, business, non-government and community organizations that support positive aging.

*To seek out and identify older adults who may feel isolated or be in need of services and information.

*To promote intergenerational activities.

Values

In all that we do, we recognize that we are a bridge to the active aging community.

PALM’s activities are divided into three major areas that support the needs of older adults:

Health & Wellness

Programs are evidence-based and designed to promote a healthy lifestyle and include exercise classes, nutrition classes, wellness visits by an onsite registered nurse, and daily hot or cold lunches.

Lifelong Learning

Programs designed to maintain and sharpen mental acuity that includes creative writing, book club, conversational Spanish, computers, and technology as well as lectures and topical presentations.

Arts and Cultural Engagement

Programs include choir group, jewelry making, art classes, table games, movie night, cultural and ethnic holidays, intergenerational activities, and travel to local and regional destination

Services

There is a wide variation of services offered by and through PALM, some services include, but are not limited to daily lunch, transportation, monthly food pantry, assistance with entitlements, and more.

Volunteer

Please consider volunteering and feel the rewards of giving back.  There are many ways to volunteer, some include fundraising, becoming a board/committee member and more.

Resources

All members are eligible to receive resources and referrals through PALM.  Rent rebates, produce vouchers (June-Sept.), assistance with benefits, links to community resources and more.

Outreach

Help our local community grow by coming together to raise awareness.  Our elders need you by assisting with benefit check-ups, food cupboards, reassurance calls, and more.

Members

Services & Resources

Activities

Year of Service

*Data as of 10/22/2024 – Subject to change without notice.

Activity, Menu, & Event Calendars

Click on any of the boxes below to open

Activity Calendar

Click here to download the Activities Calendar

ZOOM LINKS

Mondays @ 11:00am – 12:30pm
Shared Reading Program
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/96431887481 
Dial-In Number – (646)558-8656
Meeting ID – 964 3188 7481

 

Tuesdays @ 10:00am – 11:00pm
Yoga With a Twist
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/92144781722
*Class is not ideal for phone-in only
Dial-In Number – (646)558-8656
Meeting ID – 921 4478 1722

 

Wednesdays @ 10:30am – 11:30am
Healthy Steps in Motion
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/96774325324
*Class is not ideal for phone-in only Dial-In Number – (646)558-8656 Meeting ID – 967 7432 5324

 

Wednesdays @ 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Spanish Class 1 – intro
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/99715060174
Dial-In Number – (646)558-8656
Meeting ID – 997 1506 0174

Wednesdays @ 2:00pm – 3:00pm
Spanish Class – B
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/99715060174
Dial-In Number – (646)558-8656
Meeting ID – 997 1506 0174

 

Thursdays @ 10:00am – 11:30pm
Bible Study
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/7210445417
Dial-In Number – (646)558-8656
Meeting ID – 721 044 5417

 

Thursdays @ 10:00am – 11:00am
Sit And Get Fit
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88541675976
Dial-In Number – (929)205-6099
*Class is not ideal for phone-in only Meeting ID – 885 4167 5976

 

Fridays 10:00 AM -1:00 PM
Fun-Friday
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85788442465
Meeting ID: 857 8844 2465
Dial-in Number (929)2056099

Upcoming Events

OCTOBER

  • Annual Board Meeting

Friday, October 18, 2024. Join us for our Annual Board Meeting to discuss PALM’s growth, programs, and future plans and get a chance to meet with PALM Board Members. The keynote speaker is B. Eric Nogami AIA, LEED AP, GKO Architects. Who will talk about upcoming renovations at PALM. We encourage everyone to attend!

  • Vaccination Clinic

Friday, October 18, 2024. Keeping our community healthy is a top priority! Join us for this important vaccination clinic and enjoy lunch with fellow members. Stay safe and protected this season. See the flyer for additional information and details. You may also register at [email protected] or call 610-642-9370.

  • Fundraising Campaign Kickoff

Friday, October 18, 2024. We’re thrilled to announce PALM’s First Fundraising Campaign Kickoff with a luncheon featuring guest speaker Eric from GKO and entertainment. Special recognition will be given to major donors and contributors, and there will be opportunities to learn more about PALM’s programs and future plans.

  • PALM’s Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser

Saturday, October 26, 2024, 11 AM – 1 PM. PALM is partnering with the Masons, John W Bell-Allen #97, to give a Pancake Breakfast. All are welcome! Vendors will be onsite with baked goods, decor, stocking stuffers, plants, cookies, and resources. Weather permitting, the event will be held in PALM’s parking lot. There will be a 50/50 raffle, and all proceeds benefit PALM. You can visit the website or call the office to purchase tickets in advance. Vendors please register at [email protected] or call 610.64.93670 and speak with a member PALM Team Member.

  • Sweet Caroline’s 110th Birthday Celebration

Tuesday, October 29, 2024. You are invited to celebrate an extraordinary milestone with us—Sweet Caroline’s 110th birthday! Join us as we honor her remarkable life and the joy she brings to our PALM family. Please confirm your attendance at [email protected] or call 610.642.9370 to reserve a seat today.

NOVEMBER

  • Innovative Path Forward Introducing The Caring Center Launch

Friday, November 1, 2024, 11 AM – 11:45 AM. We are excited to launch, The Caring Center, a new and innovative initiative designed to offer support, care, and resources, Whether it’s grieving the loss of loved ones, fear of losing your independence, and/or simply a place to share your concerns about your future, and/or the struggles of daily life. The Caring Center is here for you and truly cares about you!

Mission Statement: The Caring Center is dedicated to providing a compassionate, judgment-free environment where people come together to discuss their concerns in a safe space where they feel respected and welcomed. Our mission is to build a supportive community that values every voice, especially those who are most vulnerable and marginalized. Through onsite meetings and virtual gatherings, we aim to educate participants on health and wellness while informing them about available resources. We believe in the transformative power of sharing experiences and perspectives, recognizing that this collective dialogue strengthens our bonds and enhances mutual support. Please register online at [email protected] to participate. Lunch will be available.

  • Campaign Close and Announcement of Amount Raised

Friday, November 1, 2024, 11AM – 1PM

  • Alfie Pollitt Trio Jazz Fest Fundraiser

Sunday, November 17, 2024, 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM. PALM 117 Ardmore Avenue, Ardmore, PA 19003. Enjoy an unforgettable afternoon of live jazz! The Alfie Pollitt Trio will headline our Jazz Fest Fundraiser—tickets are on sale now. Don’t miss this chance to support PALM while enjoying incredible music!

*Dates/times subject to change without notice.  Check back often.  

"Ask The" Series

Ask The Series

PALM continues to offer our exciting “Ask The” series that began in 2021 during the pandemic. This includes:

  • Ask the Notary: The first Monday of the month – advance registration is required
  • Ask the Nurse: Second Monday of the month (Karen Moffett from Mainline Health) – Know your numbers, drop-in clinic
  • Ask the Attorney: The first Tuesday of the month (Heather Turner, Esquire), prepare wills to secure your legacy and protect your loved ones. Gain peace of mind with a will, advance registration is required
  • Ask the Dietitian: Terri Wassel (MCOAS), to create meals, snacks, and smoothies that encourage a healthy lifestyle, as scheduled
  • Ask the Doctor: Dr. David Galinski, answering your medical questions and providing up-to-date information on vaccinations, as scheduled
  • Ask the Therapist: William “Bill” Leopold, to provide support for mental wellness, as scheduled 

 

Note: Dates subject to change without notice.  Please check back often. 

Menu

Click here to download menu for October – December 2024

 

 

 

 

PALM Holiday Schedule - Center Closed

The PALM Center will be closed on the following dates.

  • Thursday, July 4, Independence Day
  • Friday, July 5, day after Independence Day
  • Monday, August 26 – Friday August 30, Summer Break
  • Monday, September 2, Labor Day
  • Thursday, November 28, Thanksgiving Day
  • Friday, November 29, Day After Thanksgiving
  • Wednesday, December 25, Christmas Day Observed
  • Tuesday, Dec 23, – Wednesday, Jan 1, 2025 Winter Break 

 

*Dates subject to change

Calendars subject to change without notice

positive. fun. active.

PALM has provided a safe place for aging adults for over 4 decades!

Frequently Asked Questions

Click the icons below to reveal answers

Do I have to be 55 or older to participate in PALM activities?

PALM is an inclusive Center and operates to meet our mission, vision, and goals.

One of PALM’s Strategic Goals:

Is to promote intergenerational activities. Our belief is that we share a common denominator. Let’s face it! We will all get older. At PALM we choose to age joyfully, gracefully, and celebrate life. Our programs allow us to stay fit and healthy and keep a positive attitude. We encourage all generations to embrace every moment of life and to have fun through PALM’s innovative programs that maintain and improve our physical and mental health, independence, and quality of life.

We welcome guests and visitors to participate in PALM’s activities. Maybe you will have free time over the summer and want to give back using your skills and talents. You are welcome to join us. Volunteers, Community Stakeholders, Potential Members, whatever the love connection may be, one of the goals of PALM is to embrace life and recognize the strengths that all generations have to offer!

I heard PALM is serving meals onsite. Is that true?

Yes! It is true. PALM has resumed Congregate Meals! Hot lunches are served onsite Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays through the month of May. Beginning June 1, 2023, hot lunches will be served five days a week, Monday – Friday.

You are welcome to join us for food and fun and bring a friend. To ensure we have enough meals, please call the office at 610.642.9370 on Friday by 2 PM to register for the upcoming week.

In addition, PALM will continue our Grab and Go Meals Program!

How does the transportation work and what zip code does it cover?
What is PALM's history?

In November 1974, Family Services of Montgomery County, through a study made by their outreach worker, sensed the need for developing an organization which would help the older residents of South Ardmore to realize their fullest potential. These residents were primarily minority group members.

*Fifteen persons were invited to work on the project and became the first Board of Directors. They prepared themselves for their responsibility by visiting other senior citizens’ centers and familarizing themselves with programming possibilities.

*On September 29, 1975, the community was invited to a kickoff at which goals and aspirations were explained.

*Temporary housing had been offered to the Center and was accepted from the James A. Bell Masonic Order.

*The Board planned a budget and decided that funding was needed for transportation, guest speakers, equipment, program supplies and refreshments. An application was made by the Montgomery Council Office of Older Adults and funding was received.

*Initially the Club was envisioned as having a weekly program every Monday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. With funding from he Office of Older Adults, the program expanded to a two day week program.

*In September 1979, the program was enlarged to a three day week.

*Starting January 1980, the program was expanded to a five day week.

New/Renew

Membership

Just $25 a year

 

Thank you for considering/renewing your membership in the Center For Positive Aging in Lower Merion (PALM). PALM is a nonprofit agency with a focus on the overall wellness of the aging population.

PALM’s mission is to assist adults 55 years of age and older to maintain a healthy, satisfying quality of life by providing services and activities in a nurturing environment that enables them to function more independently in the community. The center is an advocate of the unmet needs of older adults and is a repository of information to assure them of their rights, benefits, and opportunities.

PALM offers a wealth of programs that directly support our mission. To ensure our members eat well we provide a lunch program of balanced nutrition in a nurturing environment of friendship and community. PALM has extensive classes that offer a variety of events for our members.As innovative leaders in the aging community, we continue to seek opportunities to enhance the quality of lives for our members. Join today to be part of this positive and engaging center!

Click here to download the membership form, or click here to complete the online form.

Mail your application to:
PALM Center for Positive Aging, 117 Ardmore Avenue, Ardmore, PA 19003

NOTE: Your membership card will be mailed when we receive your payment. If you have any questions, please call 610-642-9370.

Current Newsletter

December 2024

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Board Members

Reverend Virginia Pollard, President

Craig Whitney, Vice President

Emma K. Benn, DrPH

David E. Galinsky, MD

Bernice Green

William Simon Leopold

Staff Members

Dawn S. Allen, Executive Director

Nancy Godfrey, Office Manager

Felicia Howard, Social Services Coordinator

Joan Jackson, Bookkeeper

Harry Collins, Building Maintenance

Abigail Zimandi, Program Director

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Have Questions or Comments?

 We are here to help!

Phone

Office: 610-642-9370
Fax: 610-642-8873

Address

117 Ardmore Avenue
Ardmore, PA 19003

Hours

Monday – Friday
9:00 am – 3:00 pm

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