Baker Senior Center Naples Earns Prestigious 2023 Platinum Seal of Transparency

Baker Senior Center Naples, a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive programs and social services for local seniors and their families, announced that it has been awarded a 2023 Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid.

Candid is a 501(c)3 organization that provides the world’s most comprehensive data and information about nonprofit organizations and the social sector. Its Platinum Seal of Transparency, previously known as the Guidestar Platinum Seal of Transparency, is the highest-level designation awarded to nonprofit organizations. According to Guidestar 2022 data, just 78,262 out of 1.7 million nonprofits registered with the IRS had a seal.

“We are proud to receive Candid’s Platinum Seal of Transparency which honors our deep commitment to fiscal management, accountability and transparency in our mission to support older adults in our community,” said Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, President/CEO of Baker Senior Center Naples. “This designation gives current and potential donors even more confidence that their contributions toward assisting seniors are facilitating real change.”

Baker Senior Center Naples is the only human services agency of its kind, providing “one-stop shop” services addressing the emotional and social needs of seniors in Collier and southern Lee counties. Since opening its doors in 2014, the organization has seen a surge in the depth and scope of need for comprehensive senior services in this region.

All programs and services are provided by licensed and credentialed professionals. These include Structured Dementia Respite Support; Geriatric Case Management and Senior Outreach Programs; and Geriatric Mental Health Counseling. There also is a “choice” Food Pantry to serve seniors in need of nutrition in a discreet and respectful manner.

An average of 40 different social, educational and wellness programs also are offered each week thanks to a dedicated corps of more than 200 trained and vetted volunteers. Among these social programs are classes in art, music and film; brain fitness and educational seminars; courses in technology and computer science; physical well-being; and interest groups. The center serves everyone regardless of backgrounds and beliefs.

Baker Senior Center Naples also is one of just 111 senior centers across the United States, including just eight within the state of Florida, to achieve accreditation from the National Council on Aging (NCOA) and National Institute of Senior Centers (NISC). Accreditation means that the senior center meets the standards as developed by NISC in developing quality programs and services to meet the needs of seniors in the community.

For additional information on Baker Senior Center Naples and its comprehensive programs and social services for local seniors, visit www.NaplesSeniorCenter.org.