Canton Needs Assessment
Tonoa Jackson, Robert Bessel, Lou Daniels
Peter Vignati introduced our panelists, Canton's Senior and Social Services Director Tonoa Jackson, Canton's First Selectman Bob Bessel, and member and Canton Board of Education Chair Lou Daniels.
The purpose of the panel is to hold a discussion on the needs of Canton and how our club may become more involved with acts of service.
Tonoa and Bob discussed concerns about Canton's senior center. Canton has around 2,600 seniors living in town, and approximately 30-40 seniors attend any lunch event. Tonoa surveyed the community that had a great response, and most feedback was about the unwelcoming aesthetic of the senior center. The center itself is very small, and it is not inviting or appealing. There is currently no money in the budget to renovate or help this space. Tonoa will work on getting an itemized list of needs to help improve the room.
Current ideas to improve the senior center room include looking for plants, paint, artwork, drapes, or using the talents of those who can plant or sew - anything to make it more inviting.
Other concerns surrounding the senior center include a malfunctioning stove that is too old to replace with parts. Currently, there are about 45 seniors that attend the center for lunch, provided by Dish n Dat and Little Oak Cafe for $5. A new staff member, Cara, has tripled attendance and is continuing to grow the program. Rotarians are invited to help to volunteer at these lunches. There are currently 4 or 5 volunteers, but their help is greatly needed, so it is difficult when someone is unable to attend due to illness or vacation. It would be helpful for Rotarians to commit to a schedule that works for them - weekly, quarterly, etc.
Lou Daniels discussed the Canton Public Schools. There are staff shortages, and at times they can be severe. It would be helpful if Rotarians could come to the K-5 programs to help students read or aid teachers. Lou will begin a discussion with Kevin Case to get the ball rolling.
Lou also discussed the state of the school buildings. The outside of the school buildings are in dire need of landscaping and beautification. There is the possibility of our club adopting a school that we can help landscape and beautify.
The High School also needs a walkway to the field for graduation. Many folks struggle to access the field on this special day and would benefit from steps and railings.
Lastly, Bob Bessel shared that the Historical Museum is one of Canton's most underutilized facilities. It is currently run by volunteers and is only open on weekends from 12-4. It would be great if more could volunteer at the museum so that visitors and schools could visit and learn about Canton's rich history.
Many ongoing discussions and the panel helped provide excellent ideas for volunteer opportunities.