Senior Living Options Inc.

Senior Living Options Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing housing stability and supportive services for vulnerable populations. It was founded in 1998 as a charitable entity with a focus on enhancing the lives of senior citizens. Over time, the organization has expanded its mission to include low-income families, special needs populations, and youth, while maintaining its commitment to housing stability and community support.

History

Originally, the organization's primary focus was on senior citizens, aiming to promote their health, well-being, and happiness. In 2015, Senior Living Options began operating as Step Up for Better Living, marking a significant shift towards serving a broader demographic. This expansion included increasing services to low-income families, individuals with special needs, and youth. The organization's goals are to ease transitions into permanent housing, ensure access to community resources like childcare, healthcare, and mental health services, and conduct regular check-ins to maintain client connections.

Services and Programs

Senior Living Options, operating under the name Step Up for Better Living, offers a range of services designed to stabilize and empower families. Key services include:

• Case Management and Counseling: Providing personalized support to address individual needs.
• Eviction Prevention: Helping families maintain stable housing.
• Information and Referrals: Connecting clients with relevant community resources.
• Food Assistance: Through initiatives like the Step Up Emergency Food Fund, especially established to address food insecurity exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Education and Empowerment: Offering services that enhance skills in areas such as money management, employment, and technology.

Financials and Governance

The organization is categorically classified under housing and shelter for senior citizens, though its scope has broadened. Financially, it generates revenue from program services, contributions, investment income, and rental property income. The organization holds significant assets but also maintains liabilities. Notable expenses include executive compensation and staff wages. Senior Living Options benefits from tax-deductible donations, which support its mission.

Impact and Expansion

Through strategic partnerships and grants, Senior Living Options has increased its fundraising capacity and organizational efficiency. This includes developing donor cultivation strategies and metrics to track fundraising success. The organization continues to expand its services and reach, ensuring critical support to a diverse range of individuals in need, particularly in the South Bronx area.

Current Operations

Now operating as Step Up for Better Living, Senior Living Options Inc. remains committed to providing comprehensive support services for housing stability, food assistance, and community empowerment. Despite the name change, legal documents and acknowledgments may still reference the original name, Senior Living Options Inc.

[1] https://www.sublnyc.org/who-we-are/ [2] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/134016169 [3] https://seniorhousingoptions.org/about-sho/our-history/ [4] https://www.ccnsfund.org/features/featured-testimony-senior-living-options [5] https://seniorhousingoptions.org