The Gibson Center took root from seeds planted in 1973. At that time, an ambitious group of volunteers, local churches and the Memorial Hospital rallied their forces to begin the first senior nutrition program in the Mount Washington Valley area.

It started with 12-15 seniors receiving daily meals in their homes. Soon added were congregate meals served at churches on a rotating basis.

Through the tireless efforts of Glenna Mori, the former summer home of financier and philanthropist Harvey Dow Gibson was leased from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Manchester. The Tri-County Community Action Program was instrumental in funding kitchen and dining room construction. In 1979, a board of directors was created, by-laws were drawn up and Glenna Mori became the Center's first Executive Director.

Twenty-seven years after its start, the Gibson Center is serving 54,000 meals a year. Two vans provide transportation. The Center is thriving from dawn to dusk with activities and community events. Our ONE MILLIONTH MEAL was served on April 7, 2006 with a gala celebration held on April 11th.

In 2000, a successful capital campaign enabled us to purchase our building from the Diocese of Manchester and construct a 2400 square foot addition with a new dining room and kitchen.

The Center continues to reflect its history. One of the more bustling spots is the Glenna Mori Activity Room. The social room is named in memory of Kay Reed and the Pool Hall Gang converges on the Carroll Reed Room. For those who weren't here or don't remember, the Reeds were the catalysts for "modern" skiing in the United States. For decades, the Carroll Reed Shop was a landmark for the latest in skiwear and equipment. Kay and Carroll also set the highest imaginable standards for customer service. The Sprague Dining Room honors Charlie Sprague, an enthusiastic long time supporter of the Gibson Center and a prime example of thoughtful philanthropy in the 21^st Century.

July 2005 saw the Gibson Center assume ownership of Silver Lake Landing, a gorgeous facility on the shores of Silver Lake with 19 independent living apartments.

We are moving forward...

Frequently Asked Questions about The Gibson Center

Q: How many people live there?

A: This is probably the question we get the most. The answer is that no one lives in our North Conway offices. What little space we don't use is rented to other non-profit organizations. We also rent the northwest corner of our property to the Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce for their information booth. We DO provide housing at Silver Lake Landing in Madison.

Q: How much do you charge for meals and transportation?

A: The answer is simple: nothing. The government funding we receive requires that we do not charge. HOWEVER, that funding does NOT come close to covering our costs. Therefore we suggest a donation of $3 a meal and $3 a trip on the bus.

Q: What if I can't afford to give anything?

A: That is perfectly okay. A "suggested donation" is a voluntary donation and we make sure that the donation process for meals and bus service is anonymous.

Q: How do I become a member?

A: All you need to do is see Connie or Pearl at the front desk. Membership is $10 a year or $150 lifetime. Members receive our newsletter and are entitled to discounts on some of our programs. Membership is open to anyone interested in the welfare of seniors, regardless of their age.

Q: Do I have to be a member to receive services?

A: No. Any eligible person can receive meals and transportation or participate in our programs. "Eligible" generally means you are 60 or better, a spouse/caregiver, or disabled (for some programs). If you have any question, please call the Nutrition and Outreach Office.

Q: Are there income restrictions/requirements to receive meals or transportation services?

A: No, for 99% of our programs.  We do provide Title XX Meals for people in need that meet income guidelines, but that is only a tiny part of the meals we serve.  Please call the Nutrition Office with questions.

Q: Are you a senior day care center?

A: No. We are not licensed, nor do we have the staff to offer such a service. If you are interested in senior day care, call the Merriman House at Memorial Hospital in North Conway at 356-5461, Ext 183 or 194. 

Q: I'm on a special diet. Can I still come in for meals or get meals at home?

A: Absolutely. The Nutrition Office will take all the necessary information.
 

The Gibson Center is a 501(c)(3) corporation.

Gibson Center Board of Directors
2007-2008