History

The Stilly Valley Center (SVC) is a non-profit corporation organized by North Snohomish County citizens in 1970. Its mission is to provide services to all seniors that enhance the quality of life, limit isolation and prevent a need for institutionalization. An original sponsor of the organization was the Cascade Valley Hospital (CVH) board of directors who hoped to reduce the need for medicare hospitalization.

The Center met at Pioneer Hall, was financed by a small federal grant and was managed by volunteers. It became apparent that a larger site was needed and in 1972 the site of the Fircrest Motel was purchased on Smokey Point Boulevard. The financing came from numerous fund raisers and a $55,000 loan from three local banks which was cosigned by CVH board of directors. Many local businesses donated materials and local seniors and others provided labor to build the present main building. Over the next few years grants were obtained to build two additional buildings, funds were raised to hire a small staff, and additional property was acquired including an adjacent thrift store. Throughout this period of growth, community support and hundreds of volunteer hours have made the center a valuable community asset.

Through the years the senior center has built three HUD buildings and one Rural Development, therefore, we have 154 units of lowincome senior housing on our campus. Financing for these buildings comes from federal, state, and county agencies with mortgages paid by rents and rent subsidies. SSC staff manages and maintains these facilities and provides social services to the residents.

Currently services and programs being provided at the center include: Health and Wellness services such as a foot clinic, Medicare counseling, monthly acupuncture clinic, Medical Loan Equipment services, Family Caregiver Support groups and case management for those within this program, Outreach services, fitness activities, Food Bank, surplus food room and a hot lunch program. Recreational activities: art classes, book club, educational opportunities, day trips and extended trips, pinochle, a knitting group, bridge, Wii bowling, Friday entertainment; special events, etc. We offer a number of volunteer opportunities and our volunteers work with staff in many areas of the center. We have a 15 member Board of Directors.

Funding for these activities and services come from a variety of sources; Snohomish County and the City of Arlington. We also selfgenerate funds through our Stilly Thrift Store, Hall Rentals, fundraising, grants and donors.

If you have not been to the Stilly Valley Center and are in our area be sure to stop in for a tour and visit.