Over the last 30 years, Kaua’i Senior Centers Inc. has run educational and recreational programs for thousands of senior citizens. But last year, the state awarded the contract for the services to Kaua’i County because the county has better resources,
Over the last 30 years, Kaua’i Senior Centers Inc. has run educational and recreational programs for thousands of senior citizens.
But last year, the state awarded the contract for the services to Kaua’i County because the county has better resources, more funding and more staff, officials said.
Now, the non-profit KSC Inc. may lose its connection with two other outdoor sports programs seniors say significantly enrich their retirement lives: Bowling and softball leagues.
The seniors have high interest in the softball games because the events allow them to socialize and maintain friendships, said Dolores “Dolly” DeCosta, a board member with the Kaua’i Senior Citizens League Association.
“No way it goes to the county,” DeCosta said. “We want to stay independent. We are taxpayers, and we can do the job better.”
The idea to have the county oversee the softball and bowling programs came up during meetings between county officials and KSC representatives. The officials were discussing ways to improve and avoid duplication of services to seniors.
Some seniors worry they might not have sufficient input if the county begins overseeing the two leagues.
No county official was available for comment on the leagues’ transfer. But county agencies have traditionally welcomed comments from seniors before taking action on matters affecting them.
Spud Olivas, representing the bowling association currently working under KSC, said the organization plans to meet next week to consider the matter.
KSC board president Jose Bulatao said no decision has been made on the plan.
“We have not had a groundswell of protests from seniors,” Bulatao said. “I have had an opportunity to speak before concerned seniors. I have had no negative reaction on the explanations that have been given to them.”
Should the county assume management of the leagues, KSC will find other programs that will benefit seniors, he said.
The board wants to produce a television program on senior services and benefits that could be aired on the Ho’ike local cable access channel, Bulatao said.
The board also is reviewing grant programs through which safety bars could be installed at the homes of senior citizens, Bulatao said.
“We don’t want to duplicate services. We have to be accountable to public funds that we receive,” Bulatao said.
KSC operates with funding from United Way and from private foundations.
Senior citizens from both leagues will be informed before any action is taken, Bulatao said.
The 600 people and their families who are involved with both leagues receive supplemental insurance coverage from KSC. The softball and bowling associations cover the bulk of the insurance coverage, Bulatao said.
Staff writer Lester Chang can be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 225) and mailto:lchang@pulitzer.net
