Upcoming Programs

October Program
A Looming Crisis For Seniors

Thursday, October 8
Center of Clayton
50 Gay Avenue
Clayton, MO 63105
Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; program begins at 7 p.m.
Program is free and open to the public.

Register Here.

Nearly 20% of St. Louis seniors are living in poverty and that number is increasing every year. Thousands more seniors have incomes above the federal poverty line yet still can’t cover basic living expenses. Rising housing costs, growing medical needs, transportation barriers, and drastic cuts to federal programs are squeezing older adults from every direction. A “fiscal cliff” is looming as the state’s pandemic-era budget surplus is depleted, leaving nonprofits and communities scrambling to fill an ever-widening gap.

Every one of us is aging. We all deserve to grow older with dignity, in a place we can call home. That shared stake is exactly why this moment demands our attention. The “Seniors Count” county ballot initiative is designed to help meet this growing emergency. Bridgette Gittemeier – a leader in the Seniors Count movement – will share her expert perspectives on the current situation and lay out what individuals, organizations, and policymakers can do to make a difference.

Speaker: Bridgette Gittemeir

A driven rising professional with the heart of a helper, Gittemeir is passionate about supporting older adults and strengthening communities. A St. Louis native, she left home to earn her bachelor’s degree at Purdue University, where she worked with older adults, children with neurodiversity, teenagers, peers, and adults with substance use disorders.

After graduation, she returned to St. Louis and began working in direct service, first as a behavioral health case manager and later with her local Area Agency on Aging. These experiences deepened her passion for older adults and gave her an intimate understanding of the needs of vulnerable populations, while strengthening her relationship-building skills.

She later transitioned into advocacy and capacity-building, developing new skills while working alongside advocates committed to helping Missourians age well. Today, she focuses on her home community, educating St. Louis County residents about Proposition S and the importance of establishing a senior citizens services fund.

From singing karaoke at a senior center to speaking with community leaders, she brings energy, heart, and a commitment to helping older adults thrive.