History


 

Janet Goeske fought to improve the lives of senior citizens for almost eight decades. Her tireless efforts led to many accolades over the years including the foundation of Riverside's Janet Goeske Senior Center and its incorporation on September 22, 1983 as a section 501(c) 3 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954. In October of 1984 the Janet Goeske Center opened its doors to the senior community. The 12,000 square foot building included space for meetings, games, arts and crafts, billiards, card room, kitchen, dance hall, lounge area, lunch room, and administrative offices.

The Janet Goeske Center was expanded by an additional 12,000 square feet in 2003. The expansion added another auditorium, a complete gymnasium, two administrative offices, and two meeting rooms. The expansion also granted access to tennis courts and a swimming pool for aquatic exercises.

 The center has now been serving the senior community for over 20 years. It is the home for many activities, clubs, retiree organizations, social events, travel programs, educational seminars, legal services, health exams, HMO and social security counseling, ombudsman services, handicapped organizations, etc. 

The Janet Goeske Senior/Handicapped Center is the central meeting house for many services, activities and handicapped organizations. On any given day there can be from 400 to 1200 participants, depending on the planned activities. The senior housing project Goldware (162 units) right next door to the Center has also increased participation substantially.  

The Center is operated by the Janet Goeske Foundation, a non-profit 501(c) 3 corporation. The Janet Goeske Senior/Handicapped Center continues its founders tradition in aiding and serving the senior community.