*****    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    *****

TOMS RIVER SENIOR CENTER HOSTS

NJ STATE INTERGENERATIONAL ORCHESTRA

The Toms River Township Senior Center will host a performance of the NJ State Intergenerational Orchestra on Wednesday, June 20 at 1 PM.  The Center is located at 652 Garfield Avenue and the event is open to all seniors.  Admission is free and refreshments will be served.

            JoAnn Benson, Director of Toms River’s Department of Human Services and Senior Services stated, "This is the second time the Intergenerational Orchestra has performed for us.  This is a wonderful, innovative concept and they are a group of very talented people.  We were all very impressed the last time they performed here and couldn’t wait to get them back again."

            Senior Center Staff member Jeanette Calao coordinated the engagement.  She stated, “The orchestra consists of member ages 6 to 60 years old.  It’s really heartwarming watching such young people playing alongside their senior counterparts.  There is so much talent and energy within this group.” 

            Ms. Benson went on to explain, “Adding intergenerational programs to our calendar has been an important and meaningful part of our Center’s mission.  Our members seem to really enjoy programs that incorporate youngsters.  Our holiday party in December for local Head Start preschoolers and our partnership with Toms River High School South on the ‘Biography Project’ are very popular.”  She said that the ‘Biography Project’ teams a Senior Center member with a local high school student who is charged with writing the older adult’s biography.  “We have found this program to be especially rewarding for our members and these young adults,” she added.

            The Toms River Senior Center is open to all Seniors, regardless of residency.  Membership is free and open to all older adults age 60 and over.  The Center hosts numerous activities, classes, clubs, and events throughout the year.  Proof of residency is required for those who wish to purchase Township beach badges.  A free monthly newsletter is available at the front desk along with information about many other programs and senior friendly agencies and activities.  The facility is open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM and staff members are trained to handle the age-specific needs of this community’s older adult population.  Information, assistance, and referrals are available upon request.  Some transportation is available for residents of Toms River.  Call (732) 341-1000 x 8460 for more information about the Center or this performance of the NJ State Intergenerational Orchestra.

Helen McGovern for the Toms River Township Senior Center  

(732) 341-1000 x 8490 or (732) 966-4989

June 14, 2007