Spring is here, and the Run for the Roses is just around the corner. Piedmont Senior Resources (PSR) is excited to present “A Racy Affair” on May 6 at J&J Treeland in Prospect. We are fortunate to have a sponsor with the perfect setting for this event, a sponsor like The Fishin’ Pig to provide the meals and so many individuals and companies to support our event through sponsorships and donations.

While this event is a wonderful afternoon of fun, it is important to understand the reason for the event. Many people do not understand who we are or what we do until they need us.

PSR is a private nonprofit organization that does receive state and federal funding. However, that funding is very specific and cannot be used except for specific purposes.

Additionally, that state and federal funding requires a 10-percent match. The funds that we raise privately help provide that 10 percent match and provide us with funds to cover the needs of seniors not met by state and federal funding. When we exhaust funding for a particular program, such as meals, we end up with a waiting list. With private donations, we can avoid a waiting list or decrease the wait.

Our private funds also allow for other needs. If we are delivering meals to a 90-year-old individual whose stove quits and they do not have the means to purchase one, we obtain one so they can continue to get our meals. If we go into a home and find that the client is falling in the bathroom, we install grab bars for safety. A fall resulting in a broken hip results in emergency services expenses, surgery and the possibility of death or diminished physical capacity. Our goal is to keep seniors as safe and healthy in their homes as possible.

Partnering with private sector organizations, like Real Living Cornerstone with Navona Hart, gives us great exposure. Word- of-mouth is our best advertisement, but support in the advertising realm from sponsors like The Farmville Herald and WVHL is very helpful. The Derby Gala has become a huge part of our exposure and additional financial resources.

Join us May 6 for a great time and feel good about supporting an agency that one day may help a family member, neighbor or even you.

None of us knows what tomorrow will bring. But please know that if tomorrow brings a need for a senior in our region, PSR wants to be ready and able to provide support.