Emory Senior Center Nationally Recognized for Community Garden

Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • May 29, 2024

The Area Agency on Aging of East Texas' senior nutrition center in Emory Center has garnered national recognition from the National Association of Nutrition and Agency Services Programs for its community garden program.


With a daily attendance of approximately 65 seniors, the Emory Senior Center is more than a meal site; it's a thriving hub of connection, engagement, and community. Participants are drawn to the center's welcoming atmosphere, where activities ranging from dominoes and cards to puzzles and bingo create an environment of fun and social interaction. In addition, the center serves as a group where friends share recipes, crafting endeavors, and dances.


Despite the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Emory Senior Center's resilience pushed through. Determined to maintain a positive atmosphere, participants initiated a project to establish a community garden within the senior center. With the support of the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA), raised planters were constructed and donated. The flourishing flowers and harvest of fresh vegetables stand as a testament to the hard work, dedication, and excitement of the center's participants. 


In addition to the recognition, the Emory Senior Center received a special gift in honor of National Nutrition Month, which is celebrated in March to promote healthy practices among seniors.


Furthermore, the nutrition program's approach extends beyond meal sites to encompass comprehensive wellness initiatives offered by the AAA. Participants benefit from nutrition education, home-delivered meal services, and evidence-based health and wellness classes. These programs are accompanied by wellness checks and an opportunity for social interaction, combating isolation, and promoting overall well-being. With a commitment to promoting health, fostering connections, and enriching lives, the AAA 's Senior Nutrition Program aims to empower and uplift older individuals throughout East Texas.

Nutrition Program Health and Wellness Classes
View more
People raising hands in a bright community hall with colorful tablecloths and folding chairs

Marshall-Harrison County Health District to Host “Navigating Aging” Class

By Marshall - Harrison County Health Department • July 13, 2026
The Marshall-Harrison County Health District invites community members to attend the next Building Healthy Futures class, Navigating Aging, on Thursday, July 30, at 1:00 p.m. at the Harrison County AgriLife Extension Office (2005 Warren Drive, Marshall, Texas). Presented by the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas, this free educational class is designed to introduce older adults, caregivers, and family members to valuable programs and resources that support healthy, independent living. Participants will learn about the Area Agency on Aging's evidence-based intervention programs, which are designed to promote wellness, prevent falls, manage chronic health conditions, and improve overall quality of life. Attendees will also enjoy a nutritious snack provided during the class. In addition to the presentation, the Area Agency on Aging will conduct a brief community survey to gather input on the types of aging-related classes and services residents would like to see offered in Marshall and Harrison County. Community feedback will help shape future educational opportunities to better meet local needs. "Building Healthy Futures is about connecting our community with trusted resources that support health and well-being at every stage of life," said Jennifer Hancock, Executive Director of the Marshall-Harrison County Health District. "We're excited to partner with the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas to learn more about the classes and services they offer." The class is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended by visiting mhchd.org or by contacting the Marshall-Harrison County Health District at 903-938-8338.

Older Americans Month Celebrated Across East Texas

By Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • June 3, 2026
Each May, the Administration for Community Living leads the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month, and this year’s theme was “Champion Your Health.” In recognition of the month, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas hosted three community events in Jacksonville, Marshall, and Athens, bringing together older adults, caregivers, staff, volunteers, and community partners to celebrate healthy aging and support older adults’ independence. More than 420 people attended the three events, where they received information and heard from experts on senior services, exercise programs, fraud and scams, and ways to take an active role in managing their health. Activities included on-site health screenings, evidence-based activity demonstrations, a Dementia Live demonstration, and the TxDOT Car Fit Program for Seniors. At some events, local officials also read proclamations recognizing May as Older Americans Month, including Cherokee County Judge Chris Davis, who presented the proclamation in Jacksonville. “We encourage older East Texans and their caregivers to connect with our agency to learn more about the resources and services available to help them live independently and remain active in their communities,” said Adrian Cornejo, ETCOG’s Director of the Area Agency on Aging. Special thanks to all event partners, sponsors, volunteers, AAA staff, and participants who helped make these Older Americans Month events a success!
Show More