The Calabasas Senior Center has earned national recognition as a 2025 Program of Excellence Award winner in the Intergenerational category, presented by the National Council on Aging’s National Institute of Senior Centers (NISC), for its Vision Beyond Sight – Braille Book Project. This national recognition celebrates the project’s innovation, collaboration, impact and deep commitment to serving community members of all ages.
The project united 65 seniors (ages 65-94) and young professionals (ages 20-49) who worked side by side to assemble 400 braille storybooks and 1,000 shoe-tying instructional toys for visually impaired children. In partnership with the Braille Institute and The Commons at Calabasas, the project not only supported youth with visual impairments, but also led to the creation of a new braille book section in the Calabasas Library – expanding access to literacy and inclusion in the community. (See this video to learn more about the project.)
“We’re honored to receive this national recognition, which reflects our commitment to meaningful, inclusive and purpose-driven programming,” said Erica Green, Community Services Director for the City. “The Vision Beyond Sight project is a shining example of what’s possible when generations come together to give back with purpose and compassion.”
The Program of Excellence awards are presented annually to recognize senior centers across the nation that go above and beyond to provide older adults in their communities with useful resources, exciting programs and opportunities to prevent social isolation. The awards are judged by a panel of NISC Affiliate members and peers across seven categories: Marketing/Public Relations, Social and Support Services, Health and Wellness, Intergenerational, Nutrition, Technology/Virtual Programming and Modernizing Senior Centers Innovation.
“The Calabasas Senior Center is an integral part of the community, and we are proud to receive this recognition,” shared Mayor Peter Kraut. “The dedication and enthusiasm of our Senior Center staff and participants are what make meaningful projects like this possible. Their commitment continues to inspire and strengthen our community.”
The Calabasas Senior Center offers a variety of programs, classes and events that enrich the lives of older adults in the community. To learn more about the Calabasas Senior Center and its programs, please visit www.cityofcalabasas.com/seniorcenter
About the City of Calabasas
The City of Calabasas is a thriving community in the suburbs of Los Angeles with over 23,000 residents. Its proximity to the natural beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains and the City of Los Angeles offers tranquil living, just minutes from the city. Calabasas’ excellent schools, recreational opportunities and access to Los Angeles make it an ideal place for both families and businesses to thrive.
About the Calabasas Senior Center
The Calabasas Senior Center provides a gathering place for senior men and women, 50 years and older, to enjoy activities that contribute to continued learning and enrichment, socialization with other seniors and participation in recreational programs that promote healthy lifestyles. In this comfortable and inviting environment, seniors enjoy special interest clubs and seasonal events and gain valuable information from diverse classes and lectures.