Frontier Senior Center in Anderson--Fundraiser March 14, 2026 at 4:00 PM
- Rex Ballard
- 17 hours ago
- 3 min read
The Dream Come True; The Founding of the Center
Situated in the welcoming community of Anderson, California, the Frontier Senior Center stands as a testament to collective determination and compassion, serving over 5,000 seniors in southern Shasta County since its opening in November 1996. This vital hub provides nutrition programs, social activities, health counseling, and a sense of community, all born from a simple yet urgent need voiced by local elders back in 1992.
Founding of the Center
At the heart of this story is Patricia "Trish" Clarke, the center's founding president and a lifelong advocate for seniors. Inspired by her grandmother's struggles in isolation, Clarke championed the cause when seniors approached her about the lack of a permanent facility—their nutrition program had been displaced eight times in a decade. As she reflected in her heartfelt account, "An idea was born." Under Clarke's leadership, the Anderson Women's Improvement Club, with Jeannette Lyric at the helm, formed the non-profit Anderson Area Association of Senior Citizens Organizations (AAASCO). They secured county land initially but pivoted to remodeling an existing building when new construction funding proved elusive.
Clarke who was serving on the Shasta County Board of Supervisors was absolutely tenacious in securing a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant in 1995, aided by Kim Stempien's application and pro bono support from Don Gallino and Chuck Ryan. Facing escrow deadlines, Clarke and Assemblyman Tom Woods expedited state funds with a bridge loan from North Valley Bank, closing the deal in record time. She enlisted experts like Lucy McFall for grant administration and Duane Miller as volunteer project manager, while Mark McGeorge oversaw construction.
Volunteers were the project's backbone, with tireless seniors like Ed Bentley, Ray Zavala, Gib Gibson, and Clarke's husband Bob handling demolition and installations, including a cherished wood floor. A $42,000 McConnell Foundation grant equipped the kitchen, thanks to Virginia Webster. Donors stepped up generously: Dick Heil donated floor coverings, Dave McGeorge a freezer, and major foundations like Sierra Pacific, Mercy, and J.F. Shea provided funds. Local businesses, including Chuck and Bridget Ehn of Sunset Plastics, Mike and Sue Arnold of House of Steno, and Rich Morgan of Holiday Quality Foods (contributing an estimated $25,000), offered unwavering support.
The first phase—kitchen, dining, offices, and more—opened in 1996. The second added rooms and assembly space, completed under budget through Clarke's shrewd negotiations with subcontractors like Verlin Thomas Electric and Smitty's Heating & Cooling. Service clubs hosted pancake breakfasts, and the ETC Thrift Shop, started by Hazel Kraft and run by volunteers like Evelyn Parker, covered ongoing costs.
The Center Today
Today, the Frontier Senior Center continues to thrive and serve senior citizens throughout Shasta County. Their amazing facilities are available for rental and includes a large assembly room and a smaller gathering/dining room. They have a fully equipped commercial kitchen that is also available for rent. Go to their website below for more information about their facilities.
Nearly 30 years later, this cherished institution which, embodies Clarke's vision of purpose and connection for seniors, is now in need of some TLC, as time takes its toll. The Center would like to replace their roof so that this gem can continue to shine and serve the community for another 30+ years.
Join the effort at the upcoming Re-Roof Frontier Senior Center Fundraiser Dinner and Auction on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 4 PM PDT, right at the center (2081 Frontier Trail, Anderson, CA). This public event, hosted by the Frontier Senior Center, promises a delightful evening of dining, bidding on unique items, and supporting a worthy cause. Whether you attend or donate directly, now's the time to dip into your pockets and give back. Your contribution—big or small—will help ensure this vital space continues its mission of empowering seniors, fostering friendships, and enriching lives. Visit the website for tickets online at www.frontierseniorcenter.com/upcoming-events or contact the center at 530-365-3254 or frontierseniors@yahoo.com to get tickets, sponsor, or donate today. Let's keep the dream alive!
