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New ‘Among Friends’ adult day center set to open in Casper, offers memberships and scholarships
Summary
Becky Bozes told the commissioners that Among Friends — an 8,000-square-foot adult day center renovated on South Poplar Street — has passed its first health inspection, will serve people 50 and older in a social model, and will pair a new Still Me Foundation to provide scholarships for low-income members.
Becky Bozes, owner and president of Among Friends adult day center, told the Natrona County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday that her center passed its initial state inspection and expects to open in the next two weeks if the state’s follow-up checks go well. "We've passed our first inspection and have just a few minor things to take care of," Bozes said, adding that the center plans a public open house in May and a ribbon-cutting on June 18.
Bozes described Among Friends as a social-model day center for people age 50 and older who need supervision, socialization or assistance with nutrition and daily activities. The renovated space on South Poplar Street will provide meals, outings and volunteer-led programming; the facility has licensed capacity for up to 56 people at one time, she said. "We will be providing health-conscious care. We will be monitoring our clients," Bozes said, describing nursing oversight without offering skilled nursing services.
Bozes outlined payment and support plans: Medicaid provides limited reimbursement for half-day services, VA credentialing is pending for veterans, and the center will accept private pay and some long-term-care insurance. To help residents who cannot afford private pay, Bozes said her family launched the Still Me Foundation, a separate 501(c)(3) created to provide scholarships and grant support for members who live on fixed incomes.
Commissioners and county staff expressed appreciation. "Thank you for stepping up and filling a need that you saw," one commissioner said. Commissioners asked operational questions about capacity, staffing and whether Medicare or Medicaid would cover services; Bozes responded that Medicare does not cover adult day services, Medicaid reimbursement is limited and VA payments and long-term-care insurance are potential funding sources.
The center will contract with a local caterer for noon meals, rely on volunteer programming, and offer full-time and half-day membership options and drop-in days for previously registered members. Bozes said volunteers have already completed background checks and TB testing.
Bozes closed by inviting the public to the open house and thanking the commission for its time. The county did not take any formal action on the presentation.
