Bringing Joy, Connection, and Wellbeing to Over 200 Seniors

Thanks to a $10,000 grant from the Poway Community Foundation last year, Friends of Poway Seniors has seen a real shift in the lives of the seniors we serve. The funding allowed us to elevate our congregate meal program with quality entertainment, including live music, dance performances, and cultural events that reflect the diversity of our community.

The difference has been powerful.

On regular days without entertainment, attendance typically ranges from 60 to 100 seniors. But on event days, participation surges to more than 200. These gatherings are more than just fun—they’re lifelines. Seniors often describe these events as something they “look forward to all week,” and for many, they are the highlight of their month.

Through music, dancing, and shared meals, we’ve seen improved social engagement, increased physical activity, and an overall boost in emotional wellbeing. Participants tell us these events make them feel “young again,” help them “stay active,” and, most importantly, make them feel connected—not just to the community, but to themselves.

One regular attendee shared:

“Before these events, I stayed home a lot. Now I’ve made new friends, I dance, I laugh, and I feel like I have something to dress up for again. It’s changed my life.”

The diversity of entertainment—from jazz to mariachi, line dancing to cultural showcases—creates a space where everyone feels welcome and represented. These events foster inclusion, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose for older adults who might otherwise feel isolated.

We are deeply grateful for the support that made this possible, and we hope to continue this meaningful work with renewed funding. The smiles, movement, and laughter we witness each week are living proof that even modest investments in senior programming can create a lifelong impact.