About Us

The Senior Center @ Charles Houston, sponsored in partnership funded by the City of Alexandria Department of Community and Human Services’ Division of Aging and Adult Services,  is located inside of the Charles Houston Recreation Center and provides supportive services and resources to all City residents of all cultures and nationalities aged 60 and older, especially those who are low income.  The center encourages seniors throughout the City to retain their independence and use their talents and experiences through participation in the center as well as community based programs.

The Senior Center programs are led by a small permanent staff teamed with a corps of dedicated volunteers. It is a multipurpose program providing a variety of activities to prevent isolation of seniors and promote their wellness, happiness and independence. The Center, provides congregate meals and a wide variety of wellness, exercise, social, recreational, educational and entertainment activities, as well as field trips.

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What We Provide

CONGREGATE MEALS
Nutritious lunches prepared by a contracted caterer are served daily.  A minimum suggested donation of at least $2.00 for the meal is welcomed.
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PROGRAM ACTIVITIES
Yoga, strength and balance, and other exercise classes or videos are provided daily.  Health screenings and informational presentations are done with the help of volunteer medical professionals.  The services provided are often team efforts with the local community. Educational and recreational activities include computer skills training, community presentations, reminiscence and discussion groups, games, professional entertainers, movies and holiday parties.

​TRANSPORTATION
The Alexandria Division of Aging and Adult Services provide door to door bus transportation for seniors who live in the East End of Alexandria.  A suggested donation of $.50 cents per round trip is welcomed. Weekly shopping trips to local markets and malls are also available for a suggested donation of $1.00 per round trip.

Information

​INFORMATION AND REFERRAL
 Our staff assists Center participants regarding services provided by other City agencies in the areas of physical and mental health, home care and long-term care management, consultation, transportation, housing, financial and legal matters, employment, and social services.
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HOW TO PARTICIPATE
There is no fee to participate in Center activities or to receive information and referral assistance.  A person must be 60 years of age or older and cognitively and physically independent.