WHITEFISH COMMUNITY CENTER
A Gathering Place for the people of Whitefish, Montana
Our Mission
Non-Profit
Whitefish Community Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to serving the Whitefish area senior population and the community as a whole by providing health, educational and social enrichment activities and programs.
What We Do
How We Serve Whitefish
At the Whitefish Community Center, we are dedicated to fostering a vibrant and connected community by providing essential programs that combat loneliness, promote health, offer volunteer opportunities, and strengthen community bonds. By addressing the pressing issue of loneliness, particularly affecting older adults and individuals living alone, we provide a vital hub where people can engage socially, participate in enriching activities, and find a sense of belonging. We believe that when collaborating with local institutions, we can empower leaders and facilitate local initiatives that benefit everyone. Our center serves as more than just a facility; it's a cornerstone for civic engagement, wellness, and community spirit in Whitefish. Together, we build a healthier, more connected future where every individual can thrive.
We are the Whitefish distribution center for the national outreach program, Meals on Wheels, and host daily congregate meals via the Flathead County Agency on Aging program. In 2020, we delivered a total of 8,999 meals through the Meals on Wheels program and served 1,362 congregate meals at the Center.
We sponsor special events throughout the year. Some past events include:
-
a full-day tour of Glacier Park
-
a painting program under the tutelage of artist Susan Fletcher
-
gondola ride on Whitefish Mountain Resort
-
Winter Carnival King and Queen Coronation luncheon
-
class in cookie decoration by professional chef for Valentine's Day
-
Easter Egg hunt for adults
-
Spring Fling dance with The Springs of Whitefish
-
tour of holiday lights in Kalispell
-
annual Christmas Bazaar
-
and more
Our Staff
Director of Operations and MOW Coordinator
If you have been fortunate enough to visit our location, you have likely met our amazing staff members. These two amazing people together manage all of the happenings at Whitefish Community Center. We would be lost without them.
Director of Operations
Tara Laird
406-200-8225
MOW Coordinator
Roland Mena
406-200-8215
Our Board of Directors
The Rule Makers
At the Whitefish Community Center, Our dedicated board members play a pivotal role in guiding and supporting our mission to foster a vibrant and connected community in Whitefish. They provide strategic leadership and governance, ensuring that our programs promote health, offer enriching activities, and strengthen community bonds effectively. By leveraging their diverse expertise and passion for community service, our board members oversee the center's operations, collaborate with local institutions, advocate for resources, and empower volunteers. Their commitment drives our efforts to create a welcoming environment where individuals of all backgrounds can engage socially, find support, and thrive together.
Current members of the Board of Directors are: Tom Hughes, Pam Fletcher, Rick Kinonen, Joan Paulson, Scott Plotkin, Bill Schustrom, Lya Hardwicke, Nancy Beougher, Ruth Harrison, and Jessie Mazur.
Our Volunteers
Our Passionate Army
Whitefish Community Center is beyond fortunate in the amazing group of individuals who have taken up the challenge of regularly serving their community. In 2022, our volunteers logged 2,606 hours! Whether it is through teaching classes, meal prep and packaging, delivering MOW meals, or even shoveling snow or caring for flowers during hot summer months, our volunteers do it all. If you would like to join in with this network of awesome people, please visit our Volunteer page to download a Volunteer Application packet. We would love to have you!
Our History
Whitefish Community Center
In August 1974, local citizens saw the need for an organization to address the challenges facing baby boomers residing in the Whitefish area. An article in the local paper announced a meeting for those over 55 years of age interested in forming a group for older citizens. Fifty-four people attended the first meeting, and Whitefish Golden Agers was born. Its mission was to define problems faced by seniors and advocate solutions, as well as provide recreational activities for Whitefish’s 55+ population.
From 1974 to 1976, the Golden Agers rented space in a building in downtown Whitefish. In June 1976, the organization broke ground for what is now the Whitefish Community Center, and the building was completed in September 1976. It became home to many social events and hosted health screenings vital to the wellbeing of our seasoned population.
Within two years, the Golden Agers outgrew the building, and an addition was added in 1978.
In 2010, we officially changed the name of our organization from the Whitefish Golden Agers to the Whitefish Community Center and expanded those we serve to include everyone.
We continue to offer, sponsor or facilitate programs that promote the health, nutrition and social integration of our senior population, but have now also expanded to include all ages. We are consistently building and expanding our weekly activities thanks to dedicated staff and volunteers.
Whitefish Community Center continues to seek revenue resources through site rental, grants, special events and an annual fundraising campaign. Our organization is a home to those who may want to share a cup of coffee, have lunch and/or simply play a game of cards to socialize with others. It is a lifeline and an integral part of daily life.
Our door is open to visitors Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Our Director of Operations will be pleased to give you a tour and tell you more about us.
How You Can Help
Ways You Can Donate
Whitefish Community Center is a non-profit organization. We depend upon donations from local residents, sponsors and grants. All income to pay for operating the Center and improve the building comes from membership dues, donations, and grants. Your monetary gift is very important in keeping our doors open and our services available.
You may send a check or money order to WCC at 121 E. Second Street, Whitefish, MT 59937. If you would like to make a cash donation, please stop by our center. Any donation is tax deductible as long as you receive nothing in exchange, and our administrative team would be happy to provide a receipt for your gift. You may donate in memory of a loved one or family friend, or have us earmark your donation for a specific activity or event. You may even donate U.S. postage stamps!
Thank you for considering giving to The Whitefish Community Center. Be a part of our growth and success!
