Dear Seniors,
As we welcome the month of April, we also welcome the beauty and renewal that comes with a new season. Spring is a time of growth, fresh starts, and reflection on how we care for ourselves and the world around us. April offers several important reminders about health, balance, and community, including World Health Day, Stress Awareness Month, and Earth Day. Together, they remind us that caring for our own well-being and caring for the planet go hand in hand.
Health is more than just doctor’s visits, it is about how we feel physically, mentally, and emotionally every day. This month recognizes Stress Awareness Month. This reminds us that stress can impact our health if we do not take time to manage it. Fortunately, there are many simple ways to combat stress and restore balance in our lives. Activities such as taking daily walks, practicing deep breathing or meditation, spending time with loved ones, listening to music, or enjoying a favorite hobby can help bring calm and clarity. Staying socially connected is also one of the best ways to protect your mental well-being. Even small moments of relaxation, like sitting outside in the sunshine, can make a meaningful difference.
One of the best places to support your physical and emotional health is right here in the community through our Senior Wellness Centers. These centers provide opportunities for older adults to stay active, engaged, and connected. From fitness classes and health screenings to social activities and educational workshops, the centers are designed to help you live healthier and more fulfilling lives. I invite you to join us at any of our six locations around the city.
Ward 1
Bernice Fonteneau Senior Wellness Center
3531 Georgia Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20011
Phone: (202) 727-0338
Wards 2 and 3
Around Town Satellite Wellness Program
4125 Albemarle Street, NW, Washington, DC 20016
Phone: (202) 895-9485
Ward 4
Hattie Holmes Senior Wellness Center
324 Kennedy Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011
Phone: (202) 291-6170
Ward 5
Model Cities Senior Wellness Center
1901 Evarts Street, NE, Washington, DC 20018
Phone: (202) 635-1900
Ward 6
Hayes Senior Wellness Center
500 K Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002
Phone: (202) 727-0357
Ward 7
Washington Seniors Wellness Center
3001 Alabama Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20020
Phone: (202) 581-6010
Ward 8
Congress Heights Senior Wellness Center
3500 Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20032
Phone: (202) 563-7225
April also encourages us to think beyond ourselves and consider the environment around us. As we celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd, we reflect on this year’s theme: “Our Power, Our Planet.” This message reminds us that protecting the Earth is a shared responsibility. Simple actions like recycling, conserving energy, planting flowers or trees, and keeping our neighborhoods clean can have a lasting impact on our community.
I encourage you to care for yourselves and the lives around you. When we take steps to nurture our health, manage stress, eat well, and protect our environment, we strengthen not only ourselves but our entire community.
Here’s to a healthy, peaceful, and vibrant April.
In Service,
Charon P.W. Hines
Director, Department of Aging and Community Living