ITHACA, NY (CortacaToday) – A longtime resource center for older adults in Tompkins County is getting a financial boost.

Assemblymember Anna Kelles announced on Tuesday $150,000 in funding to the Ithaca-based Lifelong, which has been serving the local community more than 70 years. The money will be used for technology and sustainability upgrades, renovations, and the construction of an outdoor pavilion for events and programming.

“We are incredibly grateful for this funding,” said Lifelong Executive Director Liza Burger. “Creating a more energy-efficient, and welcoming building and grounds will allow us to better serve older adults in Tompkins County in a way that is more sustainable and accessible into the future. We are eager to get started. This funding is not just an investment in our center, but in the well-being and dignity of the community we serve.”

Lifelong, founded in 1952, offers activities, programming, and classes that enrich the overall mental, physical, emotional, and financial health of adults 50 and over in the community. Lifelong eases the transition to older adulthood by providing resources like free tax preparation, access to mobility devices, Medicare counseling, technology support, and more.

“We all hope to age with dignity and in good health,” said Assemblymember Kelles. “I am thrilled to award these funds to Lifelong so that they can continue to offer robust services, programming both at the center and in the community, and educational opportunities for years to come. The funds also further Lifelong’s commitment to sustainability, enabling the center to convert to LED lights and install more energy efficient windows, building upon their effort to become a greener organization.”

More information on Lifelong is available here.