Our History

The Center’s origin dates back to the vision of Mrs. Sue Morgan Mayle, who initiated the senior center concept with the assistance of Federal Title VII funds through the Older Americans Act (OAA). These funds support essential services that help older adults remain healthy and independent, including meal programs, job training, senior centers, health promotion, benefits enrollment, caregiver support, transportation, and more.

More than 40 years ago, Mrs. Mayle began preparing meals in the basement of a home on Market Street in Zanesville. On opening day in 1971, the Center served six on-site congregate meals. Within six months, the program expanded to nine congregate meals and 50 home-delivered meals daily. The Center later expanded and relocated to a cabin built through collaboration with the local Kiwanis and Rotary Clubs, strategically located at Chaps Run Park. After a fire destroyed that facility, the Center was relocated to the former Coburn Methodist Church on West Main Street. During these early years, programming focused on meals, bingo, and crafts, establishing a strong foundation for growth.

In 1997, the Center became a 501(c)(3) organization, allowing it to combine private and public funding sources. Voter-approved Senior Citizens levies over the years have demonstrated consistent community support for services benefiting older adults.

From its modest beginnings addressing food insecurity, the Center has grown into a vital community hub. Today, the Center sponsors, hosts, and participates in more than 45 ongoing activities and groups. It serves an average of 85–150 congregate meals daily, operates 10–12 home-delivered meal routes that cover the entire county, and delivers more than 450 meals each day. The Center also works with community partners to help address additional needs identified during home visits, ensuring individuals are connected to appropriate resources and support.

Through its programs, services, and welcoming environment, the Center continues to fulfill its mission, providing meaningful opportunities for individuals age 60 and older to gather, connect, and thrive.