FBLA assits older members of community

Improving the lives of Odessa senior citizens has been the focus of FBLA's community service project. Thanks to a $2,500 prize from Spokane Teacher's Credit Union, the Odessa FBLA chapter has been able to assist in many ways. Kelly Weber from Odessa's Physical Therapy Department leads SAIL (Stay Active and Independent for Life) classes twice a week at the Old Town Hall for all seniors age 65 and older. The participants are very enthusiastic and thankful for the opportunity to improve their balance and strength, while having a great time with Kelly as their leader.

Approximately 25 people attend each session, with more joining each week. The 16-week session will end in May, and FBLA members will seek other ways to fund the classes when the prize money runs out. FBLA members hosted "Senior Night Out" on Friday, March 23, where 24 guests, along with many FBLA members, enjoyed a nice dinner and a fun time winning prizes playing Bingo. The FBLA group also hosts "Senior Fun Hour" each Wednesday from 11:15-12:00 for the community to play games and visit. In the fall, FBLA members cooked and delivered 553 freezer meals to area senior citizens. With the support of the Odessa Healthcare Foundation, the Odessa Memorial Healthcare Center and Barbara Walter, senior meals coordinator, the FBLA chapter has been able to assist seniors with some very important needs.