Nina Segelson and Earlene Wolfe are as passionate today about their work at Plum Senior Community Center as when they began 21 years ago. Nina is the Executive Director and Earlene is Assistant Director. Linda Boyer, an administrative assistant, called us to tell the story about these two unsung heroes and how they have dedicated their lives to helping others. When she outlined the many sacrifices and accomplishments of these two great women, we knew there was a story to tell.

Arriving at the Plum Senior Community Center at 499 Center-New Texas Road, we sat down at a dining room table to begin the interview. Two hours later I was still having a difficult time to get them to talk about themselves! Their passion to tell the story of the adult community center was foremost in everything they said. Over and over again they both emphasized how important it was for the community to know about their programs and the help that was available.

Nina particularly pointed out that over the past years needs have changed and the word “Senior” probably did not adequately describe what the community center was really all about. She said it was more of an “adult” community center because the age range of those coming is now much younger. It really came down to “what do you think of when you hear Senior Center?” I had to say my image was the very elderly, handicapped and services. What I learned was very different.

Earlene’s work focuses on Information and Referral and covers those 50 plus in age. If there is anyone who can get information and make referrals for short or long term needs, Earlene is the person to visit. She has gained an expertise and knowledge over the 21 years that is virtually unequaled anywhere else. Her knowledge covers property tax rebates, Apprise, Access Transportation, Legal Services, Health benefits, PACE, LIHEAP (home energy assistance) and a multitude of other programs. Her greatest virtue is patience, taking the time to care for each person and their needs. The toughest part of her work is when someone doesn’t qualify, but her practice is not to stop looking for ways to work out a solution.

Nina manages a paid staff of five persons and over 100 volunteers. Her work goes far beyond management. She makes sure the Center’s frailest receive their hot lunch every weekday, the plumbing gets fixed, and constantly is looking for funding to keep the Center running. And, yet in the midst of this Nina was able to lead a project that produced a 144-page history book that is a collection of stories about the Village of Plum Borough called Barnes, Barking & Boney Piles. It is a beautiful book amply illustrated with historical photos and original stories.

Nina and Earlene both go beyond the call of duty. Their positions are more than a job to them. Both volunteer time beyond their work day to the Center’s work and programs. They come back in the evenings to help out with programs, volunteer at a booth during the Borough’s community festival, attend board meetings and special events. Their daytime work is very demanding in many ways. Earlene has to go out into the community house to house to determine if there is anyone who may need the Center’s services but are unaware of the programs.

More than anything, both Nina and Earlene stressed how the Center is really all about being a community of caring people. The events, classes, programs and services available through the Center cover every interest and more. Their quarterly newsletter is mailed to every household in Plum and lists art trips, AARP Fun & Games Day, Pittsburgh Zoo, Corn Roast, Card Party and, of course, Super Bingo as some events. There are many classes on the computers, the Internet, how to use software programs, Memory Maintenance for All Ages, CPR Recertification, 55 Alive Driving Course, Caregiver News, Stroke Support Group and much more. Then there are ongoing events every week such as Aerobics, Silver Sneakers, Shopping Trips, Bridge, Cards, Bingo, Craft, Country-Western Band, heath monitoring, Poetry Café, Book Club and Hobby Day. I think you get the picture, there is something for everyone.

Both Nina and Earlene are Penn Hills natives. Nina moved to Plum in 1977 and Earlene was raised in Plum. Both held various jobs early on in their marriages when in the same year they both became employed at the Center. Nina’s neighbor recommended her for a position at the Center and Earlene’s mother (who was a volunteer at the Center) told her about an opening. Hired months apart, they both entered their current positions after the past Executive Director left. Now, 21 years later, they are still passionate about their work and come every day knowing that they can make a difference. Their dedication is a model to others who serve in the non-profit field, especially delivering needed services. Plum Borough and its community should be very proud of the service Nina and Earlene have given and continue to give. It is the hope that the community and its businesses will have a passion to help the Center continue to grow financially and in its services to residents. For more information, call the Center at 412-795-2330 or visit the Plum Senior Community Center at http://www.plumseniorcenter.com.