Newsroom Archives

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• May 2024 - “We are so grateful and proud of our young volunteers Nathan, Caiden & Toby!! Take a look at what they do.”
  
  Mike Bush’s Making A Difference segment, KSDK May 19, 2024:
  Greenville, Illinois, students with special needs bring joy, purpose to Bond County Senior Center
  
  
• December 2023 - Share the Love by giving our Meals on Wheels seniors a gift from Santa 🎅🏼.
    For the 16th year running, November/December’s Subaru Share The Love Event brings awareness and donations to programs like Meals on Wheels. Subaru retailers donate a minimum of $300 to charity (customers choose from 4 beneficiaries) for every new vehicle leased or purchased. And local organizations also use this event to spread holiday cheer, nutritious food, and gifts to seniors and families in need.
    Bond County Senior Center welcomed many hard working special visitors and generous thoughtful donations in 2023. THANK YOU!
  • Brenna Hopkins and Girl Scout Troop 8366 (“Be a Santa to a Senior” Kindness Kit items)
  • The Red Group from Greenville University (372 food items for Bond County Food Pantry)
  • Bradford National Bank, FNB Community Bank of Greenville and of Mulberry Grove, Midland States Bank, Peoples State Bank, Bank of Hillsboro in Greenville (“Be a Santa to a Senior” donation drive, and thank you banking customers!!!)
  • Diana Doll, Amanda Kuester, and Bond/Fayette County Girl Scouts (cash contribution from their “Caring & Sharing” initiative)
  • Brandie Hauskins and Girl Scout Troop 8420 (birthdays in a pan for Food Pantry)
  

  

  
• November 2023 - Share the Love by giving our Meals on Wheels seniors a gift from Santa 🎅🏼.
    For the 2023 Subaru Share The Love Event (sponsored by Subaru of America), Bond County Senior Center would like to Share the Love locally by giving each Meals on Wheels senior a gift from Santa. Many of these seniors don’t have family in the area and are alone. What better way to brighten someone’s day than to surprise them for Christmas?! Each Senior’s gift request(s) are written on a “Be a Santa to a Senior” Christmas Bulb.
    This year, Christmas Bulbs are available in Greenville through the drive-through and inside at Bradford National Bank Main Branch, FNB Community Bank, Midland States Bank, Peoples Bank of Hillsboro, or at the Senior Center. We are also asking for donations of any of the following items: sugar free cookies or candy; hats and gloves; colored pencils, paper, cards, and stamped envelopes; throw blankets; women’s and men’s body wash and shampoos-in-one.
    Individual donations will be accepted as well if you cannot make it to one of the locations to pick up a Christmas Bulb.
    Return your gift(s), along with the Christmas Bulb tag attached to gift or your donations, to the Senior Center by December 8, 2023. Place gift in the designated box - 1001 E Harris Ave from 9a-3p Monday through Friday.
    Thank you for helping to brighten a Bond County Senior’s holiday season!
  
  
• March 2023 - Senior Center Honors Alex Lorton For 15 Years
  Although he is a young man, Alex Lorton is the current leader in longevity, among workers at the Bond County Senior Center. Last week a special ceremony was conducted at the center to recognize Alex for a milestone of 15 years at the center. Executive Director Melissa Marti surprised Alex with gifts and the presentation of a plaque. She said he was the senior center’s “super duper” helper and they appreciate all of the things he does for them. Alex recently added more responsibilities, including helping in the kitchen. Senior Center Board Chairman Ron Schaufelberger commended Alex. He said Alex is willing, able, and capable, and is willing to help any way he can. Alex lives in Greenville with his parents, Margaret and Lou Lorton. Listen to soundbytes at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
  
  

  

• December 2022 - Thacker Insurance annual Twelve Days of Giving highlights Nutrition Programs at Bond County Senior Center
  Thacker Insurance Service, which celebrated its 40th anniversary and its move into their newly renovated office space on Third Street in 2022, designated the Bond County Meals on Wheels program (on Day 6) and the Bond County Food Pantry program (on Day 9) as recipients of their 2nd annual community give back holiday program: Twelve Days of Giving. Bond County Senior Center executive Director Melissa Marti was presented the contributions by Curt Thacker. Photos courtesy Thacker Insurance, Greenville
  
  
  

  

  About Bond County Meals on Wheels:
  • A Meal on Wheels driver delivers a nutritious meal to persons who are homebound Monday-Friday, between 11 am-12:30 pm. But this delivery is so much more. It’s a smile when the door opens. It’s a check-in to make sure everything is okay. It’s a human interaction to let someone know how important they are. Contact Melissa Marti at 618-664-1465 and let her know how you are going to help!
  About the Bond County Food Pantry:
  • The Bond County Food Pantry tries to supply basic food items to supplement an individual or family’s monthly food budget. Most of the food distributed by the pantry is donated by local residents and the pantry is grateful to local growers, churches, businesses and organizations that make periodic donations. Bond County Food Pantry is located on the north side of 1001 East Harris Avenue. Food pantry patrons may park on Washington Avenue and enter from the southwest door. The pantry is open Mondays and Thursdays from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Also 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. the last Tuesday of each month. Contact Melissa Marti for more information at 618-664-1465.
• November 2022 - On November 15, 2022, Mark Heimann, VP of lending at Farm Credit Illinois (Highland, IL), presented a check to the Bond County Food Pantry (represented by Melissa Marti) as part of the Rural Marketplace Investment Program. Thank you!! At this time the pantry is serving about 192 families per month! The Bond County Food Pantry is a program by Bond County Senior Citizens Center, Inc.
• December 2022 - Share the Love by giving our Meals on Wheels seniors a gift from Santa 🎅🏼.
    For the 2022 Subaru Share The Love Event (sponsored by Subaru of America), Bond County Senior Center would like to Share the Love locally by giving each Meals on Wheels senior a gift from Santa. This year especially is so important to remember our Seniors in these uncertain and isolating times. Each Senior’s gift request(s) are written on a “Be a Santa to a Senior” Christmas Bulb.
    This year, Christmas Bulbs are available in Greenville through the drive-through and inside at Bradford National Bank Main Branch, FNB Community Bank, Bank of Hillsboro, Midland States Bank, or at the Senior Center. We are also asking for donations of any of the following items: sugar free cookies or candy; hats and gloves; colored pencils, paper, cards, and stamped envelopes; throw blankets; women’s and men’s body wash and shampoos-in-one.
    Individual donations will be accepted as well if you cannot make it to one of the locations to pick up a Christmas Bulb.
    Return your gift(s), along with the Christmas Bulb tag attached to gift or your donations, to the Senior Center by December 9, 2022. Place gift in the designated box - 1001 E Harris Ave from 8a-4p Monday through Friday.
    Thank you for helping to brighten a Bond County Senior’s holiday season!
  
  
• April 2022 - Food Pantry Receives Rice Bowl Grant
    The Bond County Food Pantry, based at the county senior center, was selected as a recipient of the Catholic Relief Services Rice Bowl grant last year. Each Lent, Catholics in the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois participate in the program which calls for them “to pray together, fast in solidarity with those who hunger, learn about global hunger and poverty and convert our sacrifices into gifts for those in need.”
    The grant money of $2600 was used by Bond County Food Pantry to purchase food staples and fresh vegetables that are then given to pantry clients. Officials at the Food Pantry say they are thankful they are able to serve around 128 families each month from throughout the county.
    Public donations are always needed including pastas, canned food, cereal, pasta salad, and tuna and hamburger helper. Cash donations are used to purchase food. Hygiene products are also accepted. The pantry receives food commodities from the Central Illinois Food Bank and also works with Operation Food Search and the Midwest Food Bank. The pantry operation is successful thanks to members of the community. Churches send volunteers and supplies each week and there are some community volunteers who help at the pantry every day. Read the full story including photos at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
  
  

  

• December 2021 - Exciting news! For the 14th year running, the Meals on Wheels network is participating in the 2021 Subaru Share the Love Event.
    Over the past thirteen years, Subaru and its retailers have helped Meals on Wheels to deliver more than 2.5 million meals nationwide to seniors in need. Through the Subaru Share the Love® Event, Subaru of America donates $250 for every new Subaru vehicle purchased or leased to the customer’s choice of the four national charities, including Meals on Wheels, with a minimum guarantee of $250,000. In addition to these partners, local Subaru retailers selected hundreds of hometown charities for their customers to support as well.
    Why does Subaru support Meals on Wheels? Too many seniors are struggling to stay independent and healthy. One in four seniors lives alone in isolation and one in seven seniors might not know from where their next meal is coming. This is simply unacceptable, which is why Meals on Wheels Bond County provides the nutritious meals, friendly visits, and safety checks to our homebound neighbors. This vital support keeps seniors in their own homes, where they want to be. We are incredibly grateful to Subaru and its Retailers for supporting our organization and the seniors we serve.
  
  
• July 2021 - Senior Center To Re-Open For Congregate Lunches July 14
    It is with great pleasure we announce the re-opening of Bond County Senior Center for serving lunches. Find our weekdays menu on our LUNCH CALENDAR PAGE.
    We will be following Age Smart / CDC guidelines as to the wearing of masks and social distancing. You will have your temperature checked at the front door and answer a few questions. You will be required to wear a mask at all times unless you are eating. As soon as you are finished eating you will have to put the mask back on.
    We will be serving your food and drinks; utensils will be furnished at the table.
    As before, you will have to have a RESERVATION to be served. For the first day you will have to call in advance (618-664-1465) and after that make a notation on the sign-up sheet.
    Lunches will be served from 11:30am to 12:15pm.
  
  
• May 2021 - New Senior Center & Transit Director Hired
  A new executive director has been hired for the Bond County Senior Center and Bond County Transit. Melissa Marti of Greenville began her new position Wednesday, May 19, 2021, after being hired by the Bond County Senior Center Board. Marti told WGEL Radio that she is looking forward to serving the people of Bond County. She said she knows the transit is a popular service and that everyone is excited for the senior center’s salad bar to return. She hopes the center can re-open soon without COVID restrictions. Melissa Marti replaces Jill Ohnesorge, who resigned to take a job with the Illinois Department of Transportation. Please welcome her & we wish her well!
  
  

  “I am honored to serve as the new Bond County Senior Center/Transit Director. This position provides the opportunity to fulfill my aspiration to serve the community. I am committed to bring the experiences and skills I have acquired over my career to support the financial, human resources, and administrative functions from a variety of for-profit, non-profit, and government agencies to this role. I am eager to collaborate with the Board of Directors and employees to continue the progress and impact to those whom the organization serves. As a Bond County resident for 38 years, my family and I have valued and appreciated the county services, hometown feeling, and spirit that defines this community. Raising my two daughters and operating the family dairy farm, Moo-Cow Mountain with my husband David, until his passing from esophageal cancer in 2013, has given me an appreciation for life and service in Bond County. My grandkids, Mackinze, Case and Miles, are the reason I want to serve Bond County. I want my family and yours to grow and thrive in this community for many years to come. As I begin this new chapter of my career, I intend to listen, respond, and collaborate with the employees, leaders and patrons of the Senior Center and Bond County Transit to continuously improve our impact to the community.”
  

  
  Listen to soundbytes from new Senior Center executive director, Melissa Marti, at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
  
  
  
• March 2021 - Round Up At The Register brings in $1,243 for Meals on Wheels
  We want to thank Capri IGA for rounding up at the register for March for Meals! They raised $1243.32 for our Bond County Meals on Wheels program during the first two weeks of March. Senior Center Director Jill Ohnesorge said the IGA fundraiser was a big help because March was a difficult month for the Center. 96 people are served through the Meals on Wheels program each day. They receive either a hot or frozen meal Monday through Friday. Ohnesorge said the senior center just came off a time of being closed due to a COVID-19 quarantine situation. She said Monday, March 29, was the first day the senior center resumed operations. Ohnesorge noted the recipients of Meals on Wheels were still able to receive “shelf stable” meals during the closure. Thank you so much for your support, shoppers of IGA!
  Listen to soundbytes from Senior Center executive director, Jill Ohnesorge, at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
  In First Photo: Capri IGA Manager Tyler Adams presents a check to Bond County Senior Center Director Jill Ohnesorge.
  
  
  

  

• December 2020 - Exciting news! For the 13th year running, the Meals on Wheels network is participating in the 2020 Subaru Share the Love Event. Over the past twelve years, Subaru and its retailers have helped Meals on Wheels to deliver more than 2.3 million meals nationwide to seniors in need.
    Why does Subaru support Meals on Wheels? Too many seniors are struggling to stay independent and healthy. One in four seniors lives alone in isolation and one in seven seniors might not know from where their next meal is coming. This is simply unacceptable, which is why Meals on Wheels Bond County provides the nutritious meals, friendly visits, and safety checks to our homebound neighbors. This vital support keeps seniors in their own homes, where they want to be.
    We’re incredibly grateful to Subaru and its Retailers for supporting our organization and the seniors we serve. With that in mind, we thought you might want to learn a little bit more about the Subaru Share the Love Event.
  
  HERE’S HOW IT WORKS
    This November 19, 2020, through January 4, 2021, for every new Subaru vehicle purchased or leased, Subaru will donate $250 to the customer’s choice of participating charities.* Meals on Wheels is one of four national participating charities and has been since the inception of the event. Through this event, as a member of Meals on Wheels America, Meals on Wheels Bond County will receive a share of the donation from Subaru vehicles sold at participating Subaru Retailers.
    You might not be in the market to purchase a new car, but if you are, please look into the Subaru Share the Love Event to learn more. If you’re not shopping for a new vehicle, you can still help by spreading the word to your family and friends.
    And remember: this holiday season you can ensure our senior neighbors are not forgotten, when you purchase or lease a new Subaru and select Meals on Wheels as your charity of choice.
  
    *Disclaimer: Subaru will donate $250 for every new Subaru vehicle sold or leased from November 19, 2020, through January 4, 2021, to four national charities designated by the purchaser or lessee. Pre-approved Hometown Charities may be selected for donation depending on retailer participation. For every new Subaru vehicle sold or leased during the campaign period, participating retailers will donate a minimum of $50 in total to their registered Hometown Charities. Purchasers/lessees must make their charity designations by January 15, 2021. The four national charities will receive a guaranteed minimum donation of $250,000 each. See your local Subaru retailer for details or visit subaru.com/share. All donations made by Subaru of America, Inc
  
  
• November 2020 - For the 2020 Subaru Share the Love Event (Sponsored by Subaru of America), Bond County Senior Center would like to Share the Love locally by giving each Meals on Wheels senior a gift from Santa. This year especially is so important to remember our seniors in these uncertain and isolating times. Each senior’s gift request(s) are written on a “Be a Santa to a Senior” Christmas Bulb.
    This year, due to COVID-19, Christmas Bulbs are available through the drive-through at Bradford National Bank Main Branch, FNB Community Bank, or at the Senior Center. We are also asking for donations of any of the following items as well: Fuzzy Socks w/Gripper Bottoms, Sugar Free Cookies or Candy, Hats/Gloves, Jigsaw Puzzles, Adult Coloring Books/Pencils, Word Search or Crossword Books, Paper/Stamped Envelopes, Throws, Women’s Body Powder or Spray, Men’s Body Wash/Shampoo-in-One or Men’s Talc.
    Return your unwrapped gift(s), along with the Christmas Bulb tag attached to gift or your donations to the Senior Center by December 11, 2020.
    Place gift in the designated box at the Senior Center at 1001 E. Harris Ave. from 8am-2pm Monday through Friday.
    Thank you for helping to brighten a Bond County Senior’s holiday season! We are excited to team up with Subaru again for this program which means so very much to us!
• July 2020 - $2,500 Grants Awarded to Two Nutritional Programs at Center
  Bradford National Bank, in partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (FHLB Chicago), presented $2,500 grants each to the Bond County Food Pantry program and the Bond County Meals on Wheels program. Funds were made possible through a FHLB Chicago and Bradford National Bank grant. Bradford National Bank employee Adam Boudouris made the check presentation to Jennifer Jackson Senior Center Manager. Meals on Wheels coordinator Darleen Jones was presented the contribution by Bradford National Bank Vice President Jace Keaster. Photos courtesy Bradford National Bank, Greenville
  
  
  

  

  About Bond County Meals on Wheels:
  • The Bond County Meals on Wheels programs provides a hot, nutritious lunch to home-bound seniors five days a week. Each meal is professionally prepared and delivered by a group of dedicated volunteers.
  • The Meals on Wheels program is vital as it not only provides needed nutrition to home-bound seniors, but it also provides a valuable touch-point where the volunteers are actually making contact and interacting with the senior.
  • To donate to this great program or to become a volunteer driver, call 664-1465, visit our volunteer information page or visit our online giving page here on the website!
  About the Bond County Food Pantry:
  • The Bond County Food Pantry provides food and sundry items to those in need in Greenville and Bond County. Each month, the Food Pantry provides goods to hundreds of individuals and families in Bond County.
  • The food pantry is open Mondays and Thursdays from 2-4pm and from 4-6pm on the last Tuesday of each month.
  • The Bond County Food Pantry is constantly in need of both monetary and product donations, as the need for their services continues to grow.
  • The Bond County Food Pantry is located at 1001 E. Harris Avenue in Greenville, on the north side of the building.
  • To donate, mail checks to this address or visit our online giving page here on the website!
• March 18, 2020 - Temporary Operating Procedures
  As we continue to weather the COVID-19 storm, the senior center is making some more adjustments to our procedures. These changes are effective Thursday, March 19, 2020.
    1. Bond County Senior Center will be closing each day at 2:00 pm. This does NOT affect food pantry distribution.
    2. We will not be accepting any face to face appointments. This means no license plate discounts, energy assistance, or Medicare appointments. We will be accepting phone calls.
    3. The doors to our facility will not be open. This is to limit our chances of our facility from becoming contaminated. Congregate meal clients to pick up a meal — please call 664-1465 to let us know you are here and we will bring your meal to your vehicle.
    4. Home delivered meal volunteers — please wait in your vehicle. We will let you know when the meals are ready and bring them outside for you to get.
    5. The food pantry volunteers will take the food box out to the patron’s vehicle. Please stay in your vehicle.
  The services we provide are extremely important to the most vulnerable populations in our community and we want to be able to provide them as long as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
• March 11, 2020 - Suspension of Services: Senior Center Making Adjustments For Coronavirus
    Illinois older adults are among the highest risk population group for becoming seriously ill from COVID-19. Locations where seniors gather such as congregate meal sites and senior centers may increase the risk of transmitting COVID-19 and community spreading of the virus. On Monday, March 9, 2020, Governor JB Pritzker declared a state of emergency based on new guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and evidence emerging across other countries and throughout the United States.
    Per direction by the Illinois Department on Aging, Bond County Senior Center will be suspending our congregate meal program, salad bar and going out to eat program to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
    Bond County Senior Center will offer a carry out meal or a meal delivered by a volunteer during this suspension of services to those who would normally come eat at our site. If you want a meal, please call 664-1465 and let us know which way you wish to receive it. We will have to strictly follow a policy of making a reservation by 4:00 pm the day before in order for us to pack a meal.
    Home delivered meals will still be provided. We are also purchasing shelf stable meals for all home delivered meal clients. These meals are in the event there is a verified case in our area and we are unable to provide meals. They will be delivered to our clients as soon as possible.
    Not all programs at the senior center are being suspended. License plate discount appointments will still be accepted. Tax appointments will continue. The main guidance given is to limit gatherings of vulnerable populations of 6 or more. We will continue our food pantry service, however clients will not be able to select their food and boxes of food will be given to them. We will not have indoor waiting available.
    Our main focus is to limit exposure to vulnerable populations to this virus, while still providing for their needs. If you have any questions, concerns or needs please call the center at 618-664-1465.
    All adjustments are in effect until further notice from the Illinois Department of Aging.
• December 2019 - Bond County Senior Center is selling these gorgeous items Saturday, December 7, 2019 at the Christmas Market organized by the Lemuel Rhodes Cancer Foundation! Check it out!! Hat centerpiece/candy dish will be $15 and the advent calendars $20. Adorable! “We can’t wait for this event! Please come, enjoy and support the Bond County Senior Center and all the other non-profit organizations! Also, a great big thank you to Deb, Mary Albert and Willow for all your help December 5th helping us get ready!” —Jen Jackson, Senior Center Manager
• November 2019 - Dear Santa Letter, Click to enlarge and read our wish list. Maybe you’re just the right person or business to help!!
• November 2019 - For the 2019 Subaru Share the Love Event (sponsored by Subaru of America), Bond County Senior Center would like to Share the Love locally by giving each Meals on Wheels senior a gift from Santa. Each Senior’s gift request(s) are written on a “Be a Santa to a Senior” Christmas Bulb.
    Please, take a Christmas Bulb from the tree and brighten a Senior’s holiday season. Bulbs are available at FNB Community Bank in Greenville, Bradford National Bank Main Branch, and Peoples State Bank.
    Return your unwrapped gift(s), along with the Christmas Bulb tag attached to gift by December 13, 2019. Place gift in the designated box.
    Thank you for helping to brighten a Bond County Senior’s holiday season! We are excited to team up with Subaru again for this program which means so very much to us!
• October 2019 - The Bond County Senior Center has welcomed a new manager. Executive Director Jill Ohnesorge is excited to have Jennifer Jackson of Greenville in the position. She said Jennifer is from the Greenville area and previously worked as an office manager at a doctor’s office in Granite City. She said Jennifer has taken on new programs and “jumped in with both feet”. Ohnesorge said Jennifer has become special to the Senior Center already and hopes everyone will stop in to meet her. Jackson oversees all operations and programs at the Bond County Senior Center. Listen to soundbytes from Senior Center executive director, Jill Ohnesorge, at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
• September 29, 2019 - Congratulations to our own Willow Reymond! She is the winner of our Name the Nights Out contest! Our meals out have become a big hit and the new name is.... “Gather and Chatter”! Join us this Friday for lunch at Mavericks in Litchfield.
• August 2019 - Thank you to all of the donors to senior Bingo in 2019!
    The FNB Community Bank of Greenville continued its long tradition of helping with the Senior Bingo at the Bond County Fair, Monday, August 5, 2019. Volunteering for FNB were Pat Kious, Nate Henna, and John Goldsmith. It was a packed pole building as around 100 people (the biggest crowd we’ve ever seen) played Bingo for prizes donated by local businesses.
    PRIZE SPONSORS: Absolutely You, Bond County Realtors, Brenda’s Hair Biz, Capri IGA, Community Title, Country Financial, CVS, Daum’s Crop Insurance, Don’s Lawn & Saw Shop, Family Eye Care, First Christian Church, Greenville Advocate, Glenwood, Greenville Hearing Center, Greenville Tire, HSHS Holy Family Hospital, Joe’s Pizza, Kaskaskia College, Marcoot’s Jersey Creamery, Midland States Bank, New Image, Peoples State Bank, Powhatan Restaurant, R.P. Lumber, The Keys (Keyesport), True Value, Watson’s Drug Store, WGEL, WPMB Radio (Vandalia), Bailey Real Estate, Bradford Bank, Buchheit, CC Food Mart, Copper Dock, Custom Wrenches, Dairy Queen, Demoulin Bros., Edward Jones Financial Advisor, FNB Community Bank, Frank Snyder Financial, Funderburk’s, Greenville Country Club, Greenville Nursing & Rehab, Heilig’s Produce, JoMama’s Signature Sweets, Kahuna’s Restaurant, Lucky Jack’s, McKay Napa Auto Parts, Naco Printing, Bank of Hillsboro, Pet Designs, Rex’s Quick Lube, Seven Oaks Realty, The Zone, Tupperware (Karen Kessinger), Wall Real Estate, Will-o-th-Wind, Young Funeral Home, Marsha Ackerman.
• May 20, 2019 - Each November-January, Subaru’s Share the Love event collects donations for Meals on Wheels. Those donations are then divided among participating Meals on Wheels agencies in each state.
    This year, Bond County Senior Center’s Meals on Wheels program received over $2,300 as a Subaru Share the Love grant!! Thank you, @subaru_usa, for the continued generosity and support of the homebound seniors that we serve. #MealsOnWheels programs across the country thank you!
  
• April 2, 2019 - Bond County Senior Center hosts March For Meals Run (Story and Photos By Emily Lucia-Rose, Greenville Advocate, page 10)
    Braving the rain, members from the Bond County community came to the Bond County Senior Center on Saturday to participate in the Third Annual March For Meals Run. Around 30 runners and walkers participated in the event.
    “During the month of March we celebrate Meals on Wheels,” stated Jill Ohnesorge, Bond County Senior Center Director. “This is a fundraiser to help fund the program. It’s just a fun run.”
    Providing meals to residents through Meals on Wheels is just one of many programs the center offers. From Medicare counseling to operating the food pantry, there is a lot the center does to provide for the senior community within the county.
    To help operate the run, Ohnesorge and the center teamed up with Chrisy Ennen and the Bo. Co. Run Co., Bond County’s running organization. “We helped set the route, and track time among other things,” Ennen explained.
    They even also had help from Scouts BSA Pack and Troop 8053, which is the center’s charter troop. “They volunteered to help at the water stations during the race,” Ohnesorge explained.
    And through the downpours, the runners and walkers continued. “The only way we were going to cancel this was if there were freezing temperatures,” Ohnesorge noted. “We [had] an amazing turnout, despite the rain.”
    Prizes were awarded to the first place winners in the male and female 5K winner categories as well as the winners for various age groups. The winners were as follows:
      Male 5K Overall: Eli Gunter
      Female 5K Overall: Laura Miller
      Age 15-24: Harley Rensing
      Age 25-34: Laura Peterson
      Age 35-44: Kelly Curll and Terry Marshall
      Age 45-54: Jaymie Tebbe and Jason Pierce
      Age 55+: Marla Ennen and Randy Alderman
      Walkers: Bruce Sandifer (first), Alex Lorton (second), and tied for third were Barbara Carter and Jackie Mueller.
  See even more photos by Greenville Advocate journalist, Emily Lucia-Rose, at SmugMug.com
  
  

  

  
• December 2018 - A special thanks to the Bond County Wild Turkey Chapter in Greenville for donating to their local Food Pantry during this holiday season! On Friday morning, December 14, the Bond County National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) members raised $1,000 for the Bond County Food Pantry. Pictured are Jackie Mueller (left) holding the check with Flint Isaak. The NWTF committee members in the phone are (l-r) Russell Huber, Doug Battoe, Brent Fisher, Diane Battoe and Nick Ellers.
• December 2018 - First National Bank Greenville AND Bradford National Bank Main Branch are each hosting a “Be A Santa To A Senior” tree, with coordination overseen by the Senior Center. Stop by and select a Christmas bulb containing the senior citizen’s name and their gift request. You may bring the unwrapped gift along with the Christmas bulb tag to the Bond County Senior Center by December 14. And thank you to Subaru of America and Subaru’s Share the Love campaign for sponsoring this event!
• November 2018 - What a wonderful show last night at Bond County Senior Center’s 2nd Annual Night Of Comedy Fundraiser, November 3! Thank you Steve Barcellona Comedy Magic for the great entertainment! Thank you for all who came and supported our programs! Over 30 silent auction prizes, 10 raffles to enter and did we mention wonderful food??? All proceeds benefit Bond County Senior Center. The center provides Meals on Wheels, Senior Dining and entertainment, Medicare counseling & enrollment, and the County food pantry.
• October 2018 - Local motorcycle organization, the South Central Illinois Law Dogs presented the Bond County Food Pantry with a donation recently. The Law Dogs aim to promote safety and responsibility around motorcycles as well as raise money for charities to give back to the community. AMVETS Post 140 also presented a check for $500 to Jackie Mueller, director of the Bond County Food Bank. The $500 is from the local AMVETS post fund raising BBQ at the annual Apple Days festivities October 6th. The BBQ was the tenth annual fund raising project for the food bank. Pictured L to R in second image: Circuit Judge John Knight, project coordinator, Mueller and AMVETS Post 140 Commander Lynn Craig.
• August 2018 - Winners of the first Bond County Senior Coloring Contest were recognized Monday, August 6, 2018, during Senior Citizens Day activities at the Bond County Fair. Senior Center Executive Director Jill Jones announced the top three places at a casual ceremony while a large number of local senior citizens were at the fair in the morning and afternoon to play bingo in the Activity Building. Congratulations to our Adult Coloring Contest Winners: Toni Van Orden, Sandra Landert, and Ruby Corbus! Thank you for all of your entries and we hope to run our summer contest again in 2019. Listen to the official announcement from Senior Center executive director, Jill Jones, at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
• July 2018 - Senior Center Executive Director Jill Jones reports a problem has arisen with donors leaving fresh produce and other food items outside the doors of the pantry and center. She said all donations are appreciated, but when they’re left outside, the pantry is unable to distribute that to patrons. Donations can be made Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 4 PM. If the pantry is closed, there is a cart in the foyer of the senior center. Donations can be left there, or if the donation is more than what the cart can hold, any staff member can help. No food donation of any type should be left outside. In the past, fresh food that has been donated included sweet corn, green beans, zucchini, squash, turnips and peppers. The senior center and food pantry are located at 1001 East Harris Avenue in Greenville. Listen to soundbytes from Senior Center executive director, Jill Jones, at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
• June 2018 - JoMama’s Signature Sweets announced that Thursday, June 7, 2018 would be their Give Back Cake Auction. The bakery posted to their Facebook Page:

  We’re so excited for the June Give Back Cake Auction! We wanted to celebrate the start of summer, so, this month, SURPRISE! There will be TWO items auctioned off with some lovely Flamingo themed extras included. There will be a strawberry/pineapple marble cake auctioned off. And, since, June is National Dairy Month, there will be a cheesecake auctioned off, too! All proceeds go to the Bond County Senior Center in memory of Harold and Margie Pourchot. My grandparents enjoyed their time at the Senior Center upon retirement. The services offered there and the community it provides is integral to keeping our seniors plugged in.

  When bidding closed, high bids went to Theresa Rexford for $90 on the cake and Stevie Roman for $75 on the cheesecake. Thank you ladies for supporting the Bond County Senior Center! And thank you, JoEllen Vohlken and JoMama’s Signature Sweets! Photos courtesy JoMama’s Signature Sweets
• June 2018 - We are elated to share that the Bond County Food Pantry has been chosen by Schnucks located at 2222 Troy Rd., Edwardsville IL as the latest beneficiary of the Schnucks — Bags 4 My Cause program! Every time the specially designed reusable Hunger bag with the message “Every Bag Feeds a Neighbor in Need” is purchased at the 2222 Troy Rd., Edwardsville IL Schnucks during the entire month of June the Bond County Food Pantry receive $1. $1 = 4 Meals! For each bag sold, we can provide four nutritious meals to those struggling with hunger, so this is an amazing opportunity for The Bond County Food Pantry! Please visit the store, find the reusable bag rack and buy the Hunger bag with the message “Every Bag Feeds a Neighbor in Need.” Listen to soundbytes from Senior Center executive director, Jill Jones, at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News. facebook.com/schnucks
  instagram.com/schnuckmarkets
  twitter.com/schnuckmarkets.com
  
• May 2018 - The Bond County Food Pantry, based at the county senior center, recently received a CRS Rice Bowl grant from the Springfield Catholic Diocese. Jill Jones, executive director of the senior center, said the grant funds are very much needed. The local food pantry received a total of $2,500. Jones said it serves an average of 200 families or 900 residents each month from throughout the county. In the summertime, they especially need food that children can prepare on their own. Public donations are always needed including pastas, canned food, cereal, pasta salad, and tuna and hamburger helper. Cash donations are used to purchase food. Hygiene products are also accepted. The pantry receives food commodities from the Central Illinois Food Bank and also works with Operation Food Search and the Midwest Food Bank. Jones said the pantry operation is successful thanks to members of the community. Churches send volunteers each week and there are some community volunteers who help at the pantry every day. Read the full story, and listen to soundbytes at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
  
• April 2018 - Saturday, April 28, 2018, we celebrated our volunteers and all they do for the Bond County Senior Citizens Center! We have over 100 volunteers that deliver meals, help in the pantry, help the citizens of Bond County with Medicare and taxes, food pantry and help with fundraising including our White Crane Business lunches. We couldn’t do it without our volunteers!! They delivered over 13,000 meals, served over 9,000 with Medicare and taxes, and raised over $13,000 in various fundraisers including White Crane! Thank you so much, we are very blessed!
• April 2018 - April 10, 2018 the speaker at the Greenville Kiwanis club was Jill Jones, director of the Bond County Senior Center, whose services include Bond County Transit and the Greenville Food Pantry. Pictured with Jill is vice-president Bob Kulhan. Photo courtesy Greenville Kiwanis Club
• March 2018 - Through efforts with Illinois Farm Bureau’s Harvest for All Program, Bond County Farm Bureau was able to donate over $400 to the Bond County Food Pantry March 26, 2018. Thank you so much for your donation! It is very much appreciated.
• December 2017 - We are counting down to the end of our Subaru Share The Love Event. This year, with the help of Bradford National Bank, we had “Santa for a Senior”. Supporters chose an ornament with a present a Meals on Wheels client would like to receive. The outpouring of love was tremendous! We gave away presents to our Meals on Wheels clients throughout Bond County before Christmas! #sharethelove #mowa #subaru
• September 2017 - We had a great day celebrating our employees! They do a great job, they make the company!! Below is us celebrating Dave Doll (10 years), Bob Scharp & Duane Ulmer (5 years) of service! Thank you all for your dedication!
• September 2017 - Bradford National Bank Employee Jeff Hasenmyer presented a $1500 check to the Bond County Food Pantry from their 1st 5k "Color Of Money" Run proceeds. This money will be put to great use helping families in need in our area. BNB offers huge thanks to all who participated in their run so that they could donate to the Food Pantry AND $1500 to the Bond County Restore Network! Our community is so good at supporting our local organizations with BNB! Story and photo courtesy Bradford National Bank.
• September 2017 - A Helping Hand: We wish to thank the Greenville Knights of Columbus for continuing to remember the food pantry each year!! We feel truly blessed to receive this donation. Jim Hickman (left) stands with food pantry director, Jackie Mueller (right), the day of the Thursday, September 21st donation drop off. Photo by reporter Emily Lucia-Rose of The Greenville Advocate newspaper.
• August 2017 - Kim Adcock (pictured below), Pat Kious, and John Goldsmith from the First National Bank Greenville staff helped with Senior Bingo at the Bond County Fair Monday, August 7th. Sponsored by the Bond County Senior Center with the support of several local businesses, Bingo was a huge hit attracting over 70 senior citizens to the fairgrounds. See more photos at FNB’s Official Facebook Page.
• July 2017 - Doane Bonney and Darryl Bolen, who have retired from the senior center’s board, were honored at a special program Friday, July 21, 2017. See more photos by Greenville Advocate journalist, Emily Lucia-Rose, at SmugMug.com Read the full story, and listen to soundbytes at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
  
• June 2017 - The Bond County Farm Bureau recently donated over seven hundred dollars to the Bond County Food Pantry. This donation will be used to purchase food staples not regularly received through donations.
• March 2017 - The first annual Bond County Senior Center March For Meals run/walk was very successful Saturday morning, March 25. Senior Center Director Jill Jones said over $2,600 was raised for the home-delivered meals program. A total of 38 people competed in the event, with 13 doing the 5K run. Jones was pleased with the number of participants. Will Adkins of Hillsboro was the overall winner in the run. Members of the Bo-Co Run-Co group oversaw the timing and operation of the event. Read the full story, and listen to soundbytes at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
  
• February 2017 - Bond County Senior Center recently received a $5,000 grant towards their capital Campaign from Midland States Bank Foundation. Thank you Midland States Bank for your support! Pictured left: Ryan Champ (of Midland States Bancorp, Inc), and right: Jill Jones (Executive Director Bond County Senior Center). Read the full story from Midland States Bank media center
  
• February 2017 - Oestreich Honored. A reception was held Saturday afternoon to honor Anna Oestreich on her retirement as director of the Bond County Senior Center. She led the center the past 34 years. A large crowd of Anna’s friends and supporters attended the event at the senior center. Several spoke, including Greenville Mayor Alan Gaffner, who read a proclamation and presented her with a key to the City of Greenville. Ron Schaufelberger, chairman of the senior center board, said Anna viewed her work at the center as a mission. He also pointed out that the kitchen at the senior center, where so many meals are prepared, has been named “Anna’s Kitchen.” Read the full story, and listen to soundbytes at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
  
• January 2017 - New Senior Center Director. The Bond County Senior Center has its third executive director in the 40-year history of the center. Jill Jones, who spent January as acting director of the senior center, has been hired as the new director, replacing Anna Oestreich, who was director the past 34 years. Darryl Bolen, member of the senior center board, said Jones has been the business manager at the Senior Center for several years and has done a marvelous job. He praised Oestreich for preparing Jill for her new role. The director also oversees Bond County Transit and the Bond County Food Pantry. Read the full story, and listen to a soundbyte at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
  
• January 2017 - Senior Center Debt Paid. At a reception Saturday afternoon, to honor retiring Bond County Senior Center Director Anna Oestreich, Darryl Bolen, member of the senior center board, made an important announcement. He told the large audience the center’s $700,000 debt would be paid off as of Monday morning. The debt was for the addition of the Frank and Susan Watson Community Building, to expand the senior center at 1001 East Harris Avenue in Greenville. Several local and state officials attended Saturday’s reception. Read the full story, listen to soundbytes, and view multiple photos at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
  Read The Greenville Advocate’s story about Anna’s Retirement Program: Part 1; Part 2. See more photos by Advocate journalist, Emily Lucia, at SmugMug.com
• January 2017 - Oestreich Reception - The public is invited to a January 28 Open House and reception at the Bond County Senior Citizens Center in honor of Anna Oestreich. Oestreich has retired after 34 years as the senior center’s executive director. She completed her service on December 30. Jill Jones, the center’s financial officer, is the acting director. Read the story at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
• December 2016 - Anna Oestreich is retiring after 34 years as executive director of the Bond County Senior Center. Oestreich will work through the end of December, then Jill Jones will become the acting director in January 2017. A transition team, which includes staff members, has been formed. Oestreich notes that nothing will change as far as services to the public. Read the full story at WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News or in the Dec 1st issue of the Greenville Advocate newspaper. [CLICK HERE to read full text]. Photo courtesy Greenville Advocate.
• November 2016 - The 2016 Subaru Share the Love Event is taking place now! This annual event takes place from November 17th, 2016 to January 3rd, 2017. One of the charities Subaru has supported since 2005 is Meals on Wheels America. Through their support, Bond County Senior Citizens Center, Inc. has received 9 grants through Meals on Wheels America & Subaru! Please consider Subaru when you consider your next vehicle! *Subaru will donate $250 for every new Subaru vehicle sold or leased from November 17, 2016, through January 3, 2017, to four national charities designated by the purchaser or lessee. Preapproved Hometown Charities may be selected for donation depending on retailer participation. Certain participating retailers will make an additional donation to the Hometown Charities selected. Purchasers/lessees must make their charity designations by January 31, 2017. The four national charities will receive a guaranteed minimum donation of $250,000 each. See your local Subaru retailer for details or visit subaru.com/share. All donations made by Subaru of America, Inc. #SharetheLove
• November 2016 - Food Pantry Hours of Distribution, on Mondays and Thursdays, are being changed to 2p - 4p, beginning Monday November 7. Anna Oestreich, executive director, said, “We’re going to change the hours from 1:00 to 3:00 to 2:00 to 4:00. So, just moving it back an hour in the hopes that that extra hour will give our volunteers time to unload trucks and get everything stocked.” Read the full PRESS RELEASE here.
• October 2016 - We wish to thank the Knights of Columbus for continuing to remember the food pantry each year!! We feel truly blessed to receive this donation. Read the story at WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
• October 2016 - White Crane Business Express Lunches Are Back!! White Crane Catering offers Sandwichs and Salads on Wednesdays October-May. Click Here to find the monthly menu offerings!
• September 2016 - Parkinson’s Disease support group meets the fourth Monday of each month from 10:30 to 11:30am. The group is open to anyone with Parkinson’s and/or their caregivers. No registration is needed to participate in the Parkinson’s Disease support group. Refreshments are served.
• September 2016 - Live Well and Be Well: Living A Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions Workshop - Wednesdays 9:30a - noon Sept 21 - Oct 19. We are offering a great class for individuals with chronic diseases (COPD, Diabetes, Heart Disease and Other physical and mental conditions). If you or someone you know would like some guidance in self managing their chronic disease, please call and register for the class!! Call 618-664-1465 x103. Please Register by Sept 20, Space is Limited! Click Here to read full info flyer!
• September 2016 - Seminar Sept 6: Snoring and Sleep Apnea: Treatment and Options: Learn more about sleep disorders and the options for treatment including an oral appliance. Tuesday Sept 6, 2016 @ 10:45AM, Bond County Senior Center. Click for Full Flyer. Presented by Greenville Family Dentistry’s Matthew J. McCullough DMD.
• August 2016 - AARP IL and the Bond County Senior Center will broadcast a live online family caregiving event Thursday, August 25, 2016, at 6pm featuring author and speaker Peter Rosenberger, founder of Caregivers With Hope, who will be featured in a free interactive webinar titled “Unstuck: Lightening the Heart of the Family Caregiver with Humor.” A live simulcast of the event will be held at the Bond County Senior Center, 1001 East Harris Ave., Greenville. Doors at 5pm. A light dinner will be served. Participants are asked to register by calling the senior center (618) 664-1465 by Friday, August 19. Find the whole press release at WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News.
• June 2016 - CHS Supports Bond County Food Pantry. The CHS Harvest for Hunger food and funds drive is once again helping local charities feed families in need. More than $650,000 and nearly 400,000 pounds of food are headed to hungry families, thanks to the CHS Harvest for Hunger campaign. Locally, CHS raised over $13,000 for food pantries during the 2016 campaign. The Bond County Senior Citizen Center Food Pantry is one of seven local food pantries to receive a $1,000 check from CHS. “Our pantry serves nearly 200 families a month,” said Bond County Senior Center Executive Director Anna Oestreich. CHS is proud to support our surrounding communities. “As a local farmer-owned co-op, we feel passionately about feeding the hungry in our own communities and the world,” said CHS Marketing and Communication Specialist Erin Williams. [CLICK HERE to read the full story from WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News]
• June 2016 - Senior Center Awarded Meals On Wheels Grant. Bond County Senior Center is proud to announce that it has received a $1,750.00 grant award from Meals on Wheels America for its participation in the 14th Annual March for Meals campaign. This past March was the Center’s 2nd year participating in the national Meals on Wheels awareness campaign designed to celebrate the proven collaboration of local community organizations, businesses, all levels of government and compassionate individuals to ensure that our seniors are not forgotten. [CLICK HERE to read the full story from WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News]
• June 2016 - White Crane Business Express Box Lunches is now on our summer break, looking forward to serving you again in the fall. Thank you for your support of White Crane and Bond County Senior Center! But if you are a having a business luncheon, please keep us in mind. We will still cater during the summer, even if we aren’t doing the lunches each Wednesday. We have a full catering menu and are flexible to work within your needs.
• April 2016 - “Live Well and Be Well” Living a Healthy Life With Chronic Conditions Workshop Series Runs Tuesdays May 3 - June 14 (no class May 31). Missed the Apr 29, 2016 registration date? For more information on the topic and to express your interest in possible related workshops in the future, please call 664-1465 x103. Click Here for the Workshop Poster.
• March 2016 - “Community Champions” highlight March For Meals donation drive in 2016. These Champions will deliver meals and encourage donations to the Meals on Wheels program during Community Champion’s Week (March 20-25) and the following week in March. “The services that we provide the seniors of Bond County are critical and the need is rapidly increasing,” said Anna Oestreich, Executive Director of Bond County Senior Center. “Together, we can keep seniors living independently, healthier at home and feeling more connected to their community as they age.” [CLICK HERE to read the full press release]. Pictured below is Wes Pourchot (on left) one of our 2015 Community Champions. And find out what 2016 Community Champion John Goldsmith thought about his experience delivering homebound meals.
• January 2016 - To adjust to the reduction in funding from the state of Illinois, beginning February 5, 2016, the senior center will not provide meals on Fridays and Meals on Wheels will be limited to four days per week. The center will remain open for other services. Anna Oestreich, executive director of the Center, is urging local residents to contact legislators, the governor and other leaders about the service cuts that have occurred due to the lack of a state budget. [CLICK HERE to read the full press release]
• Update November 2015 - Last Friday we drew for the quilt. Congratulations to Vicky Bandy!
  
  October 2015 - Quilt Raffle benefitting Meals On Wheels Program! $5.00 per ticket. Only 200 tickets will be sold, then drawing will take place. Quilt donated by Betty Boehm in a Pink Ribbon Breast Cancer Awareness theme. It is a machine quilted pink/brown quilt with breast cancer ribbons. It is on display in the Senior Center lobby. Purchase your quilt raffle tickets now at Bond County Senior Center!
• October 2015 - Senior Center director, Anna Oestreich, was presented the Greenville Women’s Club Service Award at the 24th Annual Apple Day, Saturday, October 3, 2015. L to R: John Tichenor, Anna Oestreich, John Goldsmith, Brian Ward, and Nancy Machmer. [Photo courtesy WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News]
• June 2015 - Bond County Senior Center is proud to announce that it has received a $1750.00 grant from Meals on Wheels America for its participation in the 13th Annual March for Meals campaign. This year’s grants were made possible through the generosity of Subaru of America, Inc. and its seventh annual “Share the Love” event. CLICK HERE to read the full Press Release!
• June 2015 - Knights Of Columbus Donate Meat To Food Pantry. The Greenville Knights of Columbus #11707 made their semi-annual donation of 100 pounds of hamburger meat to the Bond County Food Pantry recently. The Knights have made the contribution twice each year for many years. K of C member Jim Hickman made the donation on behalf of the chapter. Vickie Gray, who heads up the Bond County Food Pantry program, accepted the donation. [CLICK HERE to read the full story from WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News]
• June 2015 - Elder Abuse Awareness Program Monday, June 15th at 11:30. Special presentation by Dora Mann Assistant State’s Attorney for Bond County. Everyone is invited. We will be serving lunch, chopped steak, twice baked potatoes, green beans, berry cobbler and ice cream. Seniors 60 & over suggested donation $4.00. Anyone under 60 $7.60. If you want lunch please call for a reservation 664-1465 x104. Look forward to seeing everyone!
• April 2015 - The Little Christmas Village That Could Kathy Kulhan of Greenville used her Christmas Village to raise funds for the Bond County Food Pantry. Donations she received totaled $160.00. Click Here to read a letter from Anna Oestreich and see photos!
• March 2015 - We are Marching for Meals this month! #marchformeals Please join us in raising awareness for this program. These aren’t nameless, faceless clients. They are your neighbors, your grandparents, your parents, your friend’s family members. We get reimbursed approximately 25% of the cost to provide a meal. The remaining 75% must be made up by fundraising and donations. Please help us cover the gap!
• February 2015 - Today we have our first Caregivers Support Group meeting. The meeting is from 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm in the multi-purpose room. There will be a representative from Wellspring Resources there to conduct the group. This group is open to all ages. Nearly three quarters (72%) of family caregivers report not going to the doctor as often as they should and 55% say they skip doctor appointments for themselves. 63% of caregivers report having poor eating habits than non-caregivers and 58% indicate worse exercise habits than before caregiving responsibilities. Evercare Study of Caregivers in Decline: A Close-Up Look at Health Risks of Caring for a Loved One. National Alliance for Caregiving and Evercare. 2006. It is important as a caregiver to realize you have to keep yourself healthy to be able to give the care needed. Sometimes this is socialization, sometimes it’s making sure you go to your own doctor appointments. Please come share with others who are in the same situation!
• February 2015 - Starting this morning we have a Parkinson’s support group meeting from 10:30 - 11:30 am. The meeting will be in the multi-purpose room. We will be giving out materials, going over what the group will be about and watching a DVD on Parkinson’s.
• November 2014 - Building Dedicated! [CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS] A ceremony and ribbon cutting was held Saturday, November 8, 2014 to dedicate the new Frank & Susan Watson Community Building at the Bond County Senior Center. Rev. Darryl Bolen, representing the Senior Center Board of Directors, and Anna Oestreich, Senior Center Director, presented a plaque to Susan and Frank Watson honoring their generosity and dedication to senior citizens. Also honored were Bruce and Susan Meyer, who were also significant donors to the project. The community building’s dining room is named in honor of Bruce’s mother and stepfather, Shirley and Foss Meyer. More honorees included Fred and Craig Baumberger, Duane and Linda and John Flowers as well as all the Bond County Senior Center volunteers and staff. [story courtesy Greenville Chamber of Commerce]
• October 2014 - Greenville Knights of Columbus Donate To Food Pantry. The Greenville Knights of Columbus #11707 made their semi-annual donation of 100 pounds of hamburger meat to the Bond County Food Pantry. Making the donation was K of C member Jim Hickman. Accepting the contribution on behalf of the Bond County Food Pantry is Vickie Gray, who heads up the program. [CLICK HERE to read the full story from WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News]
• September 2014 - Food Pantry Opening This Week In New Location. Although work continues on the Frank and Susan Watson Community Building at the Bond County Senior Center, the food pantry is expected to open this Thursday (Oct. 2) in its new location. The food pantry is located on the north side of the new community building section. Food pantry patrons may park on Washington Avenue and enter from the southwest door. Food pantry hours are Monday and Thursday. Photo of Knights of Columbus annual meat donation to Food Pantry courtesy WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News
• September 2014 - Greenville Garden Club Donates to Senior Center. The Greenville Garden Club has a plant sale each spring. This year’s sale was very successful. You might say it was bigger than a field of Kansas sunflowers. Proceeds from that sale allowed the Garden Club to make a $1,000 donation for landscaping at the Senior Center and the new Frank and Susan Watson Community Building. Anna Oestreich, Senior Center Director, said the plan is to replace the existing landscaping with something new that will create a seamless, unity between the two sections. [story courtesy Greenville Chamber of Commerce]. In the photo: Anna Oestreich (top left) is joined by members of the Greenville Garden Club.
• August 2014 - Law Dogs Donate To Food Pantry. Following their recent bucket drive in Greenville, the South Central Illinois Law Dogs recently made a contribution to the Bond County Food Pantry. The Law Dogs are a motorcycle club made up of current and former police, fire, EMS, and corrections workers from Bond, Fayette, Montgomery, and Clinton Counties. “We did a bucket drive a couple weekends ago, raising money from the town,” Law Dogs member Marc Waschle told WGEL. “People came out and gave, so we were able to present Anna with a $1,000 check from the South Central Illinois Law Dogs, but it’s the community support that enabled us to do this. We’re really happy we could do this for a good cause.” [CLICK HERE to read the full story from WGEL 101.7 FM Daily News]
• June 2014 - Bond County Senior Center broke ground Thursday, June 5, 2014 for the Frank and Susan Watson Community Building! Fundraising for the project began last fall. Work on the addition was slated to begin on Friday, June 6. When completed, the addition will double the space for services and activities. A walk-through food pantry, dining/activity room, and kitchen will be located.in the addition. Click to read the full story from the Greenville Chamber of Commerce Sun Newsletter issue June 6, 2014. [photos and story courtesy Greenville Chamber of Commerce]
• March 2014 - We have several new things starting at the Bond County Senior Citizens Center, Inc. in April!
     Starting April 8th - WAIT WALKERS - a walking club for those age 50 and older, will be held on Tuesdays & Thursdays at 8:00 am. You will start at Bond County Senior Center and walk the path at Wait Park. It is a nice, level path that will be good for beginners. There are no fees involved. We hope to see you there!
    STRONG FOR LIFE EXERCISE CLASSES - beginning April 9th from 10:00 am - 10:30 am. Strong for Life is an easy to follow exercise routine designed to improve strength, function and balance in older adults with or without limitations. Strong for life targets specific muscles that are important in everyday life: Getting out of a chair, Walking, or picking up a grandchild. Each participant will receive a bag with an exercise band, a step pedometer and an exercise calendar. There is no cost. Come and help yourself get Strong for Life.
     Chronic Disease Self-Management Class - “Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions” - Beginning Wednesday, April 9th at 10:30 am. This class was designed to help individuals living with chronic illness explore healthy ways to live with a physical or mental condition. Class is open to anyone over age 55. Classes will take place in the dining room and taught as a 6 week course. For questions, please contact Katie Richards at 618-465-3298 x109.
   Lunch and Learn - Tuesday, April 15, 2014 - Fraud and Scams - presented by Karen Kessinger of Midland Bank at 11:30 am at the Bond County Senior Center. Come learn how to keep a step ahead of the crooks!
• March 2014 - Lots of events going on in March! These are for all ages!
     Monday, March 10th - Lunch & Learn with Impact for ITAC Amplified phones. Know someone who has a hard time hearing on the phone??? Bring them in to try out and learn about the FREE amplified phones available! Phones available for tryout from 10:00 am - 12:30 pm. Lunch and Learn from 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm.
     Monday, March 17th - Lunch and Learn - Mortgages & Foreclosures/Bankruptcy - presented by Land of Lincoln Legal starting at 11:30 am with Questions & Answers at 12:30 pm. If you have any questions about your mortgages, possible foreclosures and/or bankruptcy please come! Remember - this is for ALL ages!
     Free Tax Preparation - Mary is doing taxes for clients of all ages! Call 664-1465 to make an appointment!
    Look forward to seeing everyone soon!
• February 2014 - Surprise Valentines for Seniors. Valentines from Texas, California, Massachusetts, and New York trickled and then poured into Bond County Senior Center in the days leading up to Valentine’s Day. Read the entire mysterious story here...
• December 2013 - Dan Johnson of Johnson Signs & Designs turns the heat up on the fund raising thermometer at the Bond County Senior Center. The capital campaign for the Frank & Susan Watson Community Building addition has steadily drawn closer to the goal of $650,000. This addition should include a full kitchen, large dining room, and food pantry collection/distribution center. You can donate to the Bond County Senior Center Capital Campaign any time. Contributions can be sent to our location at 1001 East Harris Avenue in Greenville, Illinois. For more information, call the Center at 664-1465. We’ve supported positive aging for Bond County residents (of all ages!) since 1976 and we need your help now. Photo Credit Greenville Chamber Of Commerce.
• October 2013 - Senior Center Launches Capital Campaign. Plans for an expansion project were announced at a special breakfast today. Bond County Senior Center launched a campaign to raise funds for a 3,200 sq ft addition to its new location. The addition will be named for Senator Frank Watson and his wife, Susan, in honor of the work done by the couple to support the community as a whole, and the work of the Center in particular. The future addition will house a dining room, kitchen, and food pantry. When the new addition is complete, the space now used for dining will be converted for meetings and general community use. The campaign’s goal is $650,000. Those interested in contributing to the campaign should contact the Center at 664-1465. Original article courtesy WGEL 101.7FM Daily News.
• October 2013 - October 2013 marks our first full month in our new location on East Harris Avenue! But we’re not done yet! Soon we’ll be raising money to fund an addition to our new location that includes a full kitchen, large dining room, and food pantry collection/distribution center. You can get in on the ground floor by donating to the Bond County Senior Center Capital Campaign any time. We support positive aging for Bond County residents (of all ages!) and we need your help now.
• September 2013 - We would like to thank all who attended our 2nd Annual Ham & Bean Dinner yesterday! We had a great turnout. I would also like to thank everyone who donated desserts, time or money. Without our volunteers we couldn’t have done it! We appreciate you more than you know!
• September 2013 - Greenville College Football Team holds Pantry Food Drive. Click to see photo from page 12 of Greenville Advocate newspaper issue September 10, 2013.
• August 2013 - Guess who’s moving! We are! By mid-September 2013, Bond County Senior Citizens Center will have moved into its new home at 1001 East Harris Avenue in Greenville - the Mt Zion Temple building. Lunch dining; social recreation activities; various health, financial, legal, etc services; and regular group meetings will all relocate with little or no interruption. The Food Pantry, however, will operate for a time at a separate location: 1445 S. State Highway 127 (on the corner of Rt. 127 and Bowman Industrial Drive) right behind Greenville Flower Shoppe. Parking is available behind the building. CLICK HERE to read the full article from the Greenville Advocate Newspaper July 11, 2013 edition.
• July 2013 - Bond County Transit held a ribbon cutting ceremony July 12, 2013 for its new facility located at 102 Bowman Industrial Drive, Greenville Illinois. Click to see photos from the ribbon cutting and also a Time-Lapse Slideshow of the construction!
• April 2013 - Special Outing Tuesday, April 23rd! We will be taking any seniors who would like to go with us to the Ayers Field Center on Tuesday, April 23rd for a talk on bluebirds and watching the film “Inside the Box”. The film shows the activity inside a bluebird box. Any senior interested in going on our field trip, please call the Senior Center at 664-1465. Bus leaves Bond County Senior Center at 10:00 am. Sack lunches with be provided for those with reservations If you would like to eat with us but would rather meet us at the Ayers Center, please call to make a reservation for a lunch. No lunch will be served at the Center on this day. Hope everyone can join us!
• March 2013 - You are invited to a U of I Extension Nutrition Education program at 10:30AM March 19, 2013 at the senior center. The program is entitled: “Eat Smart, Live Strong”.
• March 2013 - No Bake Bake Sale!! March is the month to recognize meals on wheels & senior nutrition programs. The Meals on Wheels Association of America has their “March for Meals” campaign this month & are offering grant opportunities to programs like ours. Our fundraiser is a no bake, bake sale!
  
     Another Regular Fundraiser – NO WAY!
     Come check out our Bakeless Bake Sale today.
     No mixing, pouring, measuring or baking required
     A heartfelt donation is all that’s desired.
     We will save you the calories and the guilt honey
     Bond County Senior Center is trying to raise some money!
     For what you would pay to make it or bake it,
     Just send a few bucks, or a check, and we’ll take it!
     The money we raise will provide meals to our seniors,
     And you will receive our GREAT BIG THANK YOU~!
  
  Please consider donating to help us continue to provide meals for our seniors!
• March 2013 - Bond County Senior Center is now part of FACEBOOK! CLICK HERE to visit our new Facebook page and “LIKE” it. Stay up to date with all of our services and activities. Share with your families and friends as we support positive aging for Bond County residents of ALL ages!
• November 2012 - Bond County Transit broke ground for its new facility in an important ceremony November 1, 2012. The project is sponsored by IDOT and USDOT. The ceremony was attended by many members of the Bond County Senior Center Board, City and County Leaders, BCT customers and members of the Greenville Chamber of Commerce.
• October 2012 - Our director and staff would like to thank everyone for the help putting on our recent Ham & Bean Dinner. Thank you for coming and for making it a success. We raised money for the Nutritional Programs we offer to the seniors and to the community. We are so excited, we are already planning a Ham & Bean dinner for 2013. So again, THANK YOU!
• October 2012 - Greenville Chamber of Commerce invites you to the groundbreaking for Bond County Transit’s new facility. The ceremony is Thursday, Nov. 1 at 11:00 a.m. at the site on Bowman Industrial Drive just east of the IDOT State Shed. This is a big day in the history of Bond County Transit. Construction should be complete by early 2013.
• May 2012 - Bond County Food Pantry helped by end of school year Junior High food project. Click to see photo from page 2 of Greenville Advocate newspaper issue May 29, 2012.
• March 2012 - Bond County Senior Center has recently received a grant from the Banfield Charitable Trust to purchase pet food for our Meals on Wheels Clients with dogs and cats! More information will be posted when the program here is underway. For now, read more about the Banfield Charitable Trust [Link Expired and Removed] and how you can donate and help fund expenses associated with starting or maintaining a pet food distribution program.
• February 2012 - Illinois Farm Bureau Young Leaders of Bond County make donation to Bond County Senior Center Food Pantry. Photo and cover page article (click to enlarge) appears in February 2012 issue of Agriculture Advocate, a news publication for multi-counties of Illinois Farm Beureau.
• November 2011 - Bond County Senior Center participated in the Greenville Business & Professional Association’s Come Home For Christmas on November 25, 2011. The Center entered a decorated tree into the non-profit Christmas Tree Auction Wonderland where a Silent Auction was held to raise money for every charity organization who decorated a tree. The auction winners from the community got to take home their creatively decorated trees at the end of the night. The Senior Center’s beautiful tree was decorated in a Winter Wonderland theme with tinsel spiral tree ornaments, foil origami birds, lace snowflakes, twinkle lights and garland of gauzy tulle. If you missed Come Home For Christmas or the bidding at the Tree Auction, please do not hesitate to still make a tax-deductible donation gift this holiday season to Bond County Senior Center, Bond County Food Pantry or any local non-profit organization that touches your heart.
• October 2011 - Bond County Senior Center was honored by Greenville Women’s Club in October 2011 for Community Service. Click Here for Photos of Anna Oestreich accepting the Community Service Award.
• April 2011 - Meals On Wheels Needs Matching Funds For Grant You can help Bond County’s Meals On Wheels program receive a $7,000 match grant. If local citizens and businesses donate at least $700 by the end of May 2011, Walmart and the Meals on Wheels Association of America Foundation will donate $7,000 more. To donate your time or your money, contact the Senior Center at 664-1465.
• September 2010 - AARP Driver Safety Program Classroom (formerly called “55 Alive”) is coming September 23-24, 2010! This Defensive Driving class reviews the rules of the road, accident prevention, and overcoming the effects of aging on driving performance. Illinois offers price reductions or discounts on auto insurance to motorists who complete the AARP Driver Safety Program. Please consult with your insurance agent. The program is for drivers ages 50 and over and will run from 1pm to 5pm. Cost is $12 for members, and $14 for non members. Call Bond County Senior Center at (618) 664-1465 for details and to register.
• June 2010 - Smith Wins Sr. Spelling Bee Cassie Smith won the Bond County Senior Citizen Spelling Bee in 2010. Elaine Kilmer finished second and joined Smith in the regional bee in Belleville.
• June 2010 - The Senior Center is sponsoring a Home Modification Fair, Sunday June 6, 2010 at the Bond County Health Department. Want to stay in your own home? Wondering what it would take to make your home livable as you age? Like to know what conveniences are available and what they cost? Interested in discovering sources of financing? Read the detailed ad in June 1 edition of The Greenville Advocate newspaper. 12 Noon - Doors open. | 1:00 PM - Guest Speaker: Scott Mosby. | 2:30 PM - Panel Discussion.
• December 2009 - Senior Dinner on Christmas. The Greenville Police Association sponsored their annual Christmas Day Dinner. The event was hosted in December 2009 at Bond County Senior Center and featured holiday music and gifts from Santa.
• October 2007 - 2009 Volunteer Recognition Evening. An informal evening of fellowship and dessert, featuring Senior Center volunteers aged 32-90!
• June 2009 - Spelling Bee Held First Time in 15 Years. The Bond County Senior Citizen 2009 Spelling Bee competition and results. Winner advances to regional round.
• 2009 - Funding Cuts Jeopardize Services. Bond County Senior Citizen’s Center Life Saver Capital Campaign for the Endowment Fund
• Spring 2003 - Photos from the First Annual Golf Scramble
• Spring 2003 - 2003 Volunteer Appreciation event. The Center offers a variety of meaningful volunteer opportunities for people of all ages.
• Henrietta File Flag and Medals Ceremony. In a special ceremony with Senator Frank Watson, Henrietta File received the flag and medals awarded to her son.