Fountain Valley Senior Center celebrates 50 years with Spirit of Fountain Award ceremony

In a heartfelt gathering at Fountain City Hall, community members and officials came together to celebrate a significant milestone: the fiftieth anniversary of the Fountain Valley Senior Center. Established in 1975, the center has become a cornerstone of support and engagement for older adults in the Fountain Valley region, providing essential services that promote independence and connection.

The evening began with a presentation of the Spirit of Fountain Award, recognizing the center's invaluable contributions over the past five decades. Council member Estes shared the center's rich history, highlighting its origins under El Paso County and its evolution into an independent nonprofit organization. The center has served thousands of seniors, offering meals, transportation, and a variety of activities that foster socialization and community.

Mark Bauer, the center's executive director, expressed gratitude on behalf of the staff and volunteers, emphasizing the center's role in combating isolation among seniors. He shared a poignant story about a 74-year-old woman who relies on the center for companionship and support, illustrating the profound impact the center has on its members' lives.

Several council members and community leaders took turns reading letters of appreciation from various organizations, underscoring the center's commitment to age-friendly practices and its critical role in enhancing the quality of life for seniors in the region. Representative Mary Bradfield also spoke, urging continued support and funding for the center, which faces challenges in maintaining its services amid rising costs.

As the evening concluded, the city council officially proclaimed July 8, 2025, as a day to honor the Fountain Valley Senior Center, celebrating its legacy of compassion and community engagement. The gathering not only marked a celebration of the past but also served as a call to action for ongoing support to ensure the center continues to thrive for future generations.