SENIOR CENTER

The beginnings of the St. Louis Park Senior Center go back to 1972, with the opening in the northwest corner of the Rec Center. A program shows that the Grand Opening and Dedication was held on April 16, 1972, and indicates that it is part of Community Education, sponsored by the School District. The address of the center was given as 5005 West 36th Street.

Among the festivities was the presentation of a plaque by a representative of the Charles F. Friedheim Family. The program noted that the Senior Center was made possible through the generosity of Charles M. Friedheim in cooperation with the Community Health and Welfare Council of Hennepin County. A contribution was also provided by the Rotary Club. A newsletter of the same vintage tells us that Karen Laing was the Senior Citizen Coordinator. Activities included movies, lectures, classes, arts and crafts, even ice skating. Lunches were provided at four elementary schools.

When the Lenox facility developed a Senior Program in 1979, the plan was to close the Rec Center site, but many folks who lived on the south side of town balked, so two sites were run for a period of time. The old Senior Center site was remodeled and expanded, and is now the Recreation Office.

In 1987, the Lenox Foundation was presented with a Certificate of Commendation from Governor Rudy Perpich.  The Foundation is the fundraising arm of the senior center.

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This information comes from a variety of sources: newspapers, books, yearbooks, phone directories, interviews, etc. Given the varied sources, we cannot guarantee that all of this information is correct, and welcome any additions and corrections. Please contact us with your contributions and comments.