Welcome to Ava Dorfman Senior Center!

The Senior Citizens movement in Rome started in August 1957 when Ava Dorfman had the foresight to bring together interested people to focus on the needs of the elderly. In November of that same year, a 10-member board, the Senior Citizens Association of Greater Rome, was formed with Mrs. Dorfman as is first president. Mrs. Dorfman served as President for 18 years and as volunteer director for 16 years. This Board is now known as the Senior Citizens Council of Rome NY Inc.

Ava took on the task of recruiting members by approaching industries for a list of retirees. She sent a letter to each retiree. Due to a lack of transportation, she secured three meeting places so the seniors could meet in their neighborhoods. In February 1958, through the courtesy of the Polish Home, South Romans had a meeting place....