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Human Services Commission outlines plan to boost senior engagement and accessibility
Summary
Bailey Scheckman, chair of the Maplewood Human Services Commission, told the council on July 8 that the commission—s surveys and outreach show gaps in seniors— awareness of local resources and outlined steps to improve engagement.
Bailey Scheckman, chair of the Maplewood Human Services Commission, presented the commission—s 2024 findings and priorities to the council on July 8, focusing on engagement and accessibility for residents aged 65 and older.
Scheckman said the commission collected 40 survey responses and noted that the city has roughly 720 residents aged 65 and older according to the 2020 census. From those survey responses, the commission reported that 60% of respondents indicated they were not aware of city or local programs and resources for seniors. The commission described that 40 responses represent a small share of the elder population and recommended broader outreach to improve representation in future feedback.
To address information gaps, the commission said it is using multiple channels to share resources: a 350-word space in the Maple Leaf newsletter, expanded use of the city's Facebook page, partnership with local organizations and a liaison relationship with the St. Louis County Department of Human Services. The commission also joined the St. Louis County Continuum of Care and plans to leverage that network to raise awareness of housing and human-service supports.
Scheckman outlined two priority areas for 2025–26: reducing isolation and improving accessibility. For isolation, the commission is expanding its block‑leader recruitment effort, with an event funded through the city budget scheduled for July 19; commissioners said block leaders can connect neighbors to information and host local events. For accessibility, the commission plans to align outreach with the city—s ongoing ADA study and to collect additional data to measure whether improved information-sharing increases use of amenities and services.
Council members asked about geographic representation of survey respondents by ward; Scheckman said the commission had not yet charted ward-level responses but agreed that mapping participation would be useful. The commission requested that council and commission members help promote upcoming events and outreach activities.
Why it matters: The commission—s priorities target outreach and program design for Maplewood—s older residents—efforts that could shape where the city directs small program funds and how it coordinates with county agencies.
What to watch next: The commission will present a refined survey plan to council and host a block-leader recruitment event on July 19.
