The Hub on Smith is celebrating their golden anniversary and you’re invited

For 50 years, the Hub on Smith has worked to fulfill its mission of providing a place for friends to gather, break bread together and ensure that older residents have more than just food at home, but a conversation and fellowship. 

Executive Director of the Hub on Smith Carmen Rideout said the Hub began as a grassroots effort by Sheridan residents to ensure who wished to ensure senior widows were receiving food and care.  

C. Rideout 

According to Rideout, the Senior Citizens Council was given office space in Sheridan City Hall, food was prepared in the Salvation Army kitchen and the First Christian Church. In 1980, through the use of the General Purpose Excise Tax, formerly known as the One-Cent Optional Sales Tax, property was acquired and the Sheridan Senior Center was built.   

Holding a Master’s in Social Work, Rideout became the Executive Director in 2000 with one of the greatest missions regarding the care and services offered to older Americans just around the corner. 

C. Rideout 

The first of the Babyboomer generation turned 65 in 2011 and began the greatest increase of seniors in US history. Senior services expanded to meet the growing need. 

The Hub on Smith now provides a list of services from exercise classes, art and music classes, field trips, at home services, and expanded Goose Creek Transit and day-break to give family caregivers time to complete errands and respite. 

To celebrate  the 50 years the Hub on Smith has served the community as well as the generosity of residents that donate and volunteers that give time, the center will hold a birthday party highlighting these community minded people and the services they provide. Director of Development Ryan Koltiska said the celebration will focus on the impact so many people have had on each other as a community. 

Rideout and the staff and volunteers at the Hub on Smith also wish to remind the public, the Hub is a community center for people of any age, providing a space for multiple generations to make a connection.

C. Rideout 

The Hub on Smith 50th Anniversary Celebration begins at 5 to 8 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 26. Learn more about the Hub on Smith by clicking here.