Dear Seniors,
As we welcome the month of July, I find myself reflecting on what an extraordinary June we shared together. From celebrating love and inclusion to honoring the accomplishments of remarkable older adults, June was a powerful reminder of the vibrant, diverse, and resilient community that makes Washington, DC such a special place to call home.
Last month, we continued a DACL tradition by participating in the Capital Pride Parade, where DACL proudly rolled through the streets of the District aboard our beloved “Silver Trolley.” Filled with older adults and allies, the trolley served as a visible symbol of support, inclusivity, and love for our LGBTQ+ community. It is always inspiring to see residents of all ages come together to celebrate authenticity, dignity, and belonging. At DACL, we remain committed to ensuring every older adult feels seen, valued, and welcomed.
Last month, we also crowned a new Ms. Senior DC. Congratulations to our 2026 Ms. Senior DC, Betty Entzminger, who will proudly represent the District of Columbia at the Ms. Senior America Pageant in Atlantic City this October. We also celebrate her outstanding court: First Runner-Up Fari Tumpe, Second Runner-Up Dr. Myrtle Alexander, and Third Runner-Up Cynthia Jefferson. These incredible women embody the grace that lives amongst our senior community in the District. I would also like to extend my deepest gratitude to our immediate past queen, Valerie E. Robinson, for her exceptional service and dedication throughout her reign.
This month, our nation will commemorate a historic milestone as we continue celebrating America’s 250th birthday. Here in the Nation’s Capital, we are uniquely positioned to reflect on the enduring values of democracy, civic engagement, and freedom that shape our daily lives. As we gather with family, friends, and neighbors throughout the summer, let us take pride in the role Washington, DC, plays in our nation’s story and recommit ourselves to building communities where everyone can thrive.
As temperatures continue to rise this summer, I encourage everyone to prioritize their health and safety. Be sure to drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen when outdoors, limit prolonged exposure to extreme heat, and seek cool, air-conditioned spaces whenever possible. Heat-related illnesses can be serious, but together, we can Beat the Heat and stay safe this summer.
If you need relief from the heat, DACL’s Senior Wellness Centers serve as cooling centers and welcoming spaces for older adults throughout the District. Whether you’re looking to participate in programming, connect with friends, or simply cool down during the hottest parts of the day, our doors are open.
Ward 1
Bernice Fonteneau Senior Wellness Center
3531 Georgia Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20011
Wards 2 and 3
Around Town Satellite Wellness Program
4125 Albemarle Street, NW, Washington, DC 20016
Ward 4
Hattie Holmes Senior Wellness Center
324 Kennedy Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011
Ward 5
Model Cities Senior Wellness Center
1901 Evarts Street, NE, Washington, DC 20018
Ward 6
Hayes Senior Wellness Center
500 K Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002
Ward 7
Washington Seniors Wellness Center
3001 Alabama Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20020
Ward 8
Congress Heights Senior Wellness Center
3500 Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20032
Lastly, as we reflect on the Spring celebrations of District parents, I want to recognize Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, a time to shower our loved ones with admiration and gratitude for the hard work, sacrifice, guidance, and unconditional love they pour into raising others. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, guardian, or chosen family, Mothers and Fathers shape our community. We thank you for the countless ways you inspire others each day.
I look forward to all that we will accomplish together in July. Stay safe, stay connected, and stay cool.
In Service,
Charon P.W. Hines
Director, Department of Aging and Community Living
