On April 28, Laura Briggs officially assumed the title of Union County Senior Center Director. Since then, she’s been adjusting to the position and working to maintain the strong sense of community that has come to define the place over the years.
“With over 22 years in public service, I have a desire to serve others and to make a positive impact in the community,” Briggs said. “Over my career, I have loved being able to assist residents, build consensus with stakeholders and find ways to improve efficiency and effectiveness in operations.”
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Briggs’ focus on public service began in 2004 when she took a job at the Florida Division of Emergency Management. Though initially a volunteer, she went on to build up a career spanning 15 years, with experience handling “every major disaster in Florida during that time.”
Along with that, she managed Florida’s Homeland Security and disaster recovery grant programs and served as contract and vendor manager during the pandemic. She also joined Florida’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in 2019, where she handled federal and state grants.
“My focus has always been on results, accountability and service to the public,” Briggs revealed, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge in leadership and financial organization. With that, she says plans for more fundraisers to assist the financially struggling Senior Center are underway.
Over 37% of Union County’s population is made up of those aged 60 and older, and presently, the Senior Center serves about 100 meals daily. Those who attend can check out a variety of classes and activities or just come for the sake of getting out and socializing.
“Many seniors here are far from family or rebuilding life after loss. The center offers friendship, purpose and a fresh start – often with seniors giving back as volunteers,” noted Briggs. “When seniors stay active and connected, they stay healthier and more independent.”
Indeed, the Senior Center has made a difference in countless lives. Bobbi Faye, for example, is a member and is forever grateful for the new lease on life the center has provided.
“The friendships and camaraderie transcend the center and become part of your life outside the center as well,” Faye said. “The center was a lifeline for me, and it helped me start a new chapter of my life.”
Kathy Hill, former Senior Center director and current volunteer, also shares that her time spent at the center has been “meaningful, filled with wonderful friendships and community spirit.”
“The Senior Center is much more than a place to gather – it’s a lifeline where seniors find connection, comfort and joy. For many who receive home-delivered meals, that visit may be their only friendly face each day,” Hill said.
With growth inevitably occurring in the county, Briggs knows there is a need for careful management and preparation for further expansion to keep the Senior Center operating at its best.
To accommodate that, Briggs has been pushing to organize more partnerships with residents, businesses and county leaders, and more help is always appreciated.
So, what can the community do to support the continued success of such a priceless local resource?
There’s always a need for more volunteers, whether that means helping at the center itself or taking a more mobile approach, such as driving to deliver meals along one of the over 30 routes that help get food to homebound seniors.
Financial gifts are certainly appreciated, and folks can also make donations directly through the Senior Center’s Amazon Wish List, which can be found at https://a.co/770jLOB. Right now, the most requested items are cases of water, solo cups and sandwich bags.
“As the saying goes, ‘If you want to know where your heart is, look at where you put your time, talent and treasure,’” Briggs said. “We know Union County has a big heart, and together, we can make a big impact.”
Building on that, Hill added, “I want to encourage everyone in our community to consider volunteering in some capacity. It truly makes a difference in the lives of so many seniors, bringing kindness and support when it’s needed most.”
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer can call 706-439-6105 or visit the Senior Center directly at 95 Senior Center Way in Blairsville. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
