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Juanita Poll Center advisory chair highlights growth in programs, rides and rentals
Summary
Advisory committee chair Susan Nowak and Center Supervisor Sarah Shepherd presented the Juanita Poll Center annual report, noting increased participation across programs, 1,704 miles driven by center vans, 760 hours of fitness classes and more than 16,000 attendees at 80 after‑hours rentals in 2024.
TUALATIN, Ore. — The Juanita Poll (JPC) Center advisory committee presented its 2024 annual report to the Tualatin City Council on Jan. 27, highlighting rising participation in classes, trips and rentals and urging continued community support.
Susan Nowak, advisory committee chair, said the committee meets every other month to review program and attendance reports from center staff. She said the center’s offerings have grown, including arts and culture events (New Horizons Big Band concerts), writing programs, environmental education and intergenerational activities.
Nowak and Sarah Shepherd, the center supervisor, reported these operational highlights for 2024:
- Nearly all program categories showed increases from 2023. - The center’s sprinter vans drove 1,704 miles for trips and outings. - Fitness classes offered about 760 instructor hours in 2024. - The center hosted roughly 80 rentals during nights and weekends, drawing more than 16,000 guests to after‑hours events.
Nowak described veterans programming as a signature offering (the veterans breakfast in November), cited 476 handwritten letters collected during a winter project, and said partnerships — including with Cascadia, Washington County and local Medicare navigators — have expanded programming and sponsorships.
Council questions and follow‑ups
Councilors asked about trip costs, membership and how to hear about events; staff said there is no membership fee but resident and nonresident rates apply for trips and overnight outings. Staff uses email e‑blasts, a printed newsletter and the center calendar to reach participants, and they said sponsorships help keep some programs low‑cost.
Councilor Gonzales and others asked about Meals on Wheels distribution; staff said JPC currently hosts congregate lunches twice weekly (Tuesdays and Thursdays, noon to 1 p.m.) and Washington County continues deliveries for homebound seniors. Staff said county partners are exploring whether Meals on Wheels coverage can be expanded beyond two days.
Why it matters
Nowak told council that social connection and lifelong learning are central to the center’s mission and credited city investments in facility refreshes and improved lighting. The advisory committee asked the council to continue supporting sponsorships and outreach that maintain program affordability and participation.
"The center accomplishes all of those things," Nowak said. "People come because it does improve your life being around people and engaging in programs and learning new things."
