WE’VE ALWAYS BEEN ON A MISSION

Our purpose is to inspire and enable residents of the Grosse Pointes and Harper Woods to enjoy the gift of longevity, living healthy and meaningful lives, as they age.

In 1978, a small group of visionary citizens of the Grosse Pointes and Harper Woods formed “Seniors Onward for Change” (SOC). Those founders envisioned a “one-stop shop” organization that would help residents remain in their own homes with dignity and independence.

NOW OUR MISSION HAS EXPANDED

Because our world is shifting from merely existing to thriving. How do you live with meaning and purpose?

Answer: quality of life is everything. Especially as we age.

We all want to stay as independent as we can. Connected. And, of course, healthy. Simply put, we need a great place to grow older. To feel alive while we are alive.

That’s why we changed our name to The Helm Life Center.

Not just a place. But a hub for good. Where older adults feel they belong. Where friendships are made. And days are made better. Where a compassionate staff and volunteers help inform, engage and advise older adults in our community every day. With wisdom and love.

Seniors are living longer than ever before and their needs and interests are changing.

So did our needs.

And a few years ago, something wonderful happened. We found a permanent home. Spurred by a major gift from the John A. and Marlene L. Boll Foundation, we began renovations on a beautiful former nurses’ residence. The community demonstrated its belief in SOC’s mission through its generosity, and today, the John A. and Marlene L. Boll Life Center is a hub for hundreds of adults daily.

The senior population in the Grosse Pointes and Harper Woods will double in the next 20 years. And we plan to be at The Helm to welcome all of them!

The Boll Life Center – Past and Present

Our beautiful and stately home began its life in the 1930s as a dormitory for nurses at Cottage Hospital. It was originally known as the Newberry House, recognizing Helen Newberry, who funded the acquisition and construction.

Rooms at The John A. and Marlene L. Boll Life Center are available to rent for private events and local community organizations. Call The Helm at 313.882.9600 for further information.

In 2012, Henry Ford Health System – Cottage donated the use of the property to Services for Older Citizens for a nominal annual rental fee. SOC then embarked on an extensive reconstruction project, made possible by a major gift from the John A. and Marlene L. Boll Foundation and generous donations from hundreds of community residents, turning the residence into a state-of-the-art center for senior activities and community events. In 2013, Services for Older Citizens moved into the newly named John A. and Marlene L. Boll House.

Now called The Helm at the Boll Life Center, it’s a place constantly in motion, with resources, classes and activities for all.

“Getting up and getting out to The Helm starts my day on a happy note.”

– The Helm Life Participant

MEET OUR STAFF

Krista
Siddall
Executive Director
313.649.2101

Allie Short
Case Coordinator LLMSW
313.649.2106

Margaret Cooper
Program Coordinator
313.649.2109

Linda Tocco
Lead Receptionist
313.649.2120

Lynda Altovilla
Finance & Operations Director
313.649.2102

Melissa Cotton
Meals on Wheels Coordinator
313.649.2105

Jackie Thomas
Program Coordinator
313.649.2103

Barbara Scates
Receptionist
313.649.2121

Liz Johnson
Development Director
313.649.2104

Christine Brown
Information and Assistance Specialist
313.649.2108

Karen Fontanive
Marketing Manager
313.649.2113

Dan Morency
Maintenance Superintendent
313.649.2122

Heidi
Uhlig-Johnstone
Volunteer Services Director
313.649.2107

Tony Altovilla
MMAP Information Specialist
313.649.2110

Holly Hazel
Administrative Assistant
313.649.2100

Lori Jones
PAATS Dispatcher
313.394.9712

Our Board & Financials >

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