History

The Alexandria Senior Center has humble beginnings. Today it is a thriving non-profit organization enjoyed by more than 650 active members and numerous guests from throughout Douglas County.

The Alexandria Senior Citizens’ Center began January 2, 1980, when it became incorporated. It received its non-profit status December 31, 1981 and was housed in the Alexson Hotel. Plans were then devised to build a proper home for the organization. Eleven other clubs in Douglas County contributed, through fundraisers, to the cost of the new building which would be used as a home base.  The County contributed $43,000 in Revenue Sharing funds for the building and the City of Alexandria pledged $10,000 annually for recreation for the over-65 population. Andrew A. and Alice Urness contributed significantly, along with a host of community businesses and leaders, to make this a reality.

The current Alexandria Senior Center building became home in 1984 and was cited nationwide by the Older Americans Act for its vision. It occupies 37 percent of the building under an agreement with the Douglas County Housing and Redevelopment Authority and together they formed the Township Square Condominium Association.

Significant community leaders in the organization's formation, included Kathryn LeBrasseur, who was the Douglas County Senior Citizen's Director at the time and identified a need for a central place for older adults to socialize, get a meal and find purpose through volunteering.

Another dedicated community member who played a big part in the formation of the Senior Center was Pearl Kaufman.   She was the President of the Board most of those early years.  The Center was often referred to as “the House that Pearl built.”

Today, the City and County still contribute to the Center, along with nearly half of the 20 townships. Other funding sources include activity fees, donations, grants, membership dues, meeting room rentals and annual fundraisers.

On Sunday, August 25, 2024, the Center celebrated its 40th Anniversary, “Celebrating our Seniors!” The event featured a street dance with Julie Lee, BBQ’s, large tent and over 120 people enjoying the celebration and connecting with friends.

The Alexandria Senior Center Board of Directors voted in 2025 to change the name to ENCORE! Center for Vibrant Aging, signifying a new chapter in the 41-year history of the Center. The goal was to attract a wide range of older adults and create excitement and awareness of this community asset.  The new name was rolled out in March of 2026. The Board also voted to eliminate age restrictions; anyone who supports our mission is eligible to join.

The Center’s mission is to “Support active living for older adults through social, educational and creative connections.” Its purpose is “We empower healthy minds and bodies.”