Department of Community Services Showcases Successful Initiatives and Announces Future Plans at County Commissioners Meeting
At the County Commissioners meeting held on Tuesday night, the Department of Community Services provided a comprehensive update on the successful programs and initiatives undertaken in 2023. Looking ahead to the coming year, the department highlighted upcoming events and initiatives that aim to further enrich the lives of our community.
The meeting reflected on the success of several initiatives that made a significant impact throughout the year. The 18th Annual Senior Summit, which made its return on May 19, 2023, after the pandemic hiatus, witnessed an impressive turnout of over 400 visitors at the Queen Anne’s County 4-H Park. Attendees reveled in a vibrant Mardi Gras themed event featuring food, vendors, entertainment, and various activities. Building on this success, the department announced the Senior Summit will return on May 17, 2024, with the theme "Welcome to the 60’s".
Moreover, the Commission on Aging Town Hall Meeting, held on September 21, 2023, at the Grasonville Senior Center, drew participation from 78 attendees, 8 panelists, and 10 staff members. This marked a rejuvenation of engagement after a four-year hiatus due to the pandemic.
One of the significant milestones of 2023 was the grand opening of the Queen Anne’s County YMCA and Active Aging Center on October 9, 2023. Notably, the Active Aging Center welcomed 124 new members and recorded 1,418 new individual memberships at the YMCA. With a combined 14,560 visitors in the first month, the Active Aging Center introduced tailored programming catering to adults aged 55 plus, offering a diverse range of activities including fitness sessions, games, and social gatherings. Additionally, the Active Aging Center commenced congregate meals starting November 13, 2023.
The 9th Annual Make a Difference Day held on November 4, 2023, at Sudlersville Middle School, was a resounding success, attended by 127 participants and serviced 183 community members through various essential services such as healthcare, housing assistance, and more.
Furthermore, the "Ride for FREE in 2023" initiative, which waived fares for County Ride users, saw a staggering 93% increase in ridership compared to the previous year. This initiative's success holds significant implications as ridership figures are pivotal for determining future funding from the Maryland Transit Authority. Fees will also be waived in 2024!
Two upcoming events for 2023 were also announced during the meeting. The Maryland Access Point 2023 Caregivers Conference, themed "Embracing the Caregiver," will take place on November 17, 2023, at the Grasonville Senior Center. Additionally, the highly anticipated Queen Anne’s County Senior Centers Holiday Gala, sponsored by the County Commissioners, will be held on December 8, 2023, at the Kent Island Senior Center, promising a delightful evening for all attendees.
Looking toward the future, the Department of Community Services eagerly anticipates the completion of renovations at the Kramer Center in Centreville, slated for 2024.
To discover more about the Department of Community Services and its diverse range of programs and services, visit www.qac.org and search for "Department of Community Services."