The South County Senior Forum
A place to learn, give, and make a difference

The South County Senior Forum was formed in 2003 to promote collaboration about services, advocacy, and support for the elders of our community. The work of the forum has focused on transportation, housing, and services that support independence.

• People can apply for Para Transit services at the Petaluma Senior Center 707- 778-4399 or Petaluma People Services Center (PPSC) 707-765-8488 and get help to complete the application.

• People can learn how to use the Petaluma Transit system by getting involved with bus trips offered through the Petaluma Senior Center .

• Seniors can use the Independence Guide, an individualized laminated poster with names, phone numbers, and emergency information that goes on your refrigerator.

• Seniors who face a rent increase that might jeopardize staying in their own home can apply for a “Bridge the Gap” grant to cover their rent shortfall by contacting PPSC at 707-765-8488.

How the Senior Forum Works

The Senior Forum meets the second Tuesday of every month at the Petaluma Senior Center at 211 Novak from 3:00 to 4:30 to check in with the whole group and work on their project teams. People who can’t attend meetings at that time can volunteer to help when they are available by contacting project team leaders through The Healthy Community Consortium at 778-4951.

Project teams are focused on one of the three areas for this year.

1. Transportation
2. Housing
3. Services in Support of Independence

People will also have an opportunity to sign up to write an article for the Senior Life Page or to do research about resources that support making this a great place to grow older. Anyone in the community is welcome to join or drop in at the Senior Forum.

What members say about the Senior Forum

“What is unique about the Senior Forum is that we really get work done when we meet. We don’t just meet and talk like so many groups. Although some of us represent organizations, there is no hierarchy. In a way, we are all community volunteers,” Kira Reginato, Lifeline, Petaluma Health Care District.

“I feel so welcomed and accepted! I was looking for a way to transition from my years in the work force into retirement. I have not been a volunteer before but participating in the Forum has shown me how easy it is to contribute to the community.” Kay Basque, community volunteer.

“Because my job with HICAP requires that I am on the road, giving presentations all over the county, I can not attend many meetings but I am connected here and people know they can count on me. If you need me you can call me and tell me what you need. I am part of this community,” Julie Bennett , Senior Advocacy Services, HICAP Program.

“I don’t attend Forum meetings. But I get the notes and read the articles in the Argus Courier. That is the right level of participation for me. I want to know what is happening and who to go to if I have something to contribute or something I need,” Doralyn, retired, 50 year Petaluma resident.