Community Services Council of Brevard County, Inc. dba Aging Matters In Brevard

Community Services Council of Brevard County, Inc., operating as Aging Matters In Brevard, is a nonprofit organization founded in June 1965 to promote the welfare of Brevard County, Florida, by coordinating community services. Initially, it focused on agency coordination, but it evolved to provide direct services, particularly to senior citizens and the disabled.

History

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the organization transitioned its focus towards promoting and maintaining independence, enhancing the quality of life for the elderly and disabled in Brevard County. Key milestones include:

• Senior Helpline: Established in the 1970s, this program offered information and referrals for individuals 60 and older. It later evolved into the Aging and Disability Resource Center operated by the Senior Resource Alliance.
• Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP): Launched in 1971, RSVP utilizes the skills of volunteers aged 55 and older to support local charities and government entities.
• Brevard Community Kitchen: Initiated in 1992, this kitchen provides meals to vulnerable populations, including frail seniors, at-risk adults, and children, and offers catering services for community events.
• Assisted Living Medicaid Waiver Program: Introduced in 1995, this program assisted clients in long-term care facilities; it was merged into the Long-Term Managed Care program in 2013.
• Caregiver Support Program: Started in 2001, offering respite care for caregivers.
• Senior TranServe: Implemented in 2000, this program provides transportation for homebound seniors.
• Aging Matters in Brevard Administrative Building: Constructed in 2002, it consolidated agency operations.
• Shared Cost Program: Launched in 2003, providing homemaking and personal care services for seniors.
• Sunflower House: Acquired in 2006, offering educational and social services for seniors.
• GRANDParenting Again Program: Established in 2012 to support grandparents raising their grandchildren.
• Vets Driving Vets: Initiated in 2013, matching veteran drivers with non-driving veterans for transportation needs; later merged into Senior TranServe.

Renaming

In January 2012, the organization was renamed Aging Matters in Brevard to better reflect its commitment to senior services.

Services and Operations

Aging Matters In Brevard offers comprehensive services to support independence, health, safety, and quality of life for seniors in Brevard County:

• Nutrition Services: Includes Meals on Wheels and Seniors at Lunch, providing hot meals and social activities.
• Transportation: Offers Senior TranServe and Vets Driving Vets for non-driving seniors.
• Home Care Support: Provides companionship, house modifications, respite care, and more.
• Caregiver Support: Delivered through Sunflower House with educational and recreational services.
• Volunteer Opportunities: Includes the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) and programs for volunteers under 55.

Funding

The organization is funded through a mix of local government support, United Way, federal and state grants, local corporations, civic organizations, and individual donations. All funding stays local, aiming to support seniors in aging safely and actively in place.

Leadership and Governance

As of early 2025, the board includes members from diverse backgrounds, including finance, education, and healthcare, ensuring a diverse leadership structure. The organization practices transparency and ethics in governance, with regular assessments of its performance and leadership.

Vision and Values

Aging Matters In Brevard aims for Brevard County to be recognized nationally for its support of seniors, embodying values of integrity, fairness, and dignity in service delivery. The organization actively participates in community development through partnerships with staff, volunteers, and other community partners.