Senior Neighbors was started as a "swap shop" of services and information for mature adults. Mrs. George (Ginny) Power and Mrs. Charles (Ruth) Thompson are credited with the idea for Senior Neighbors. Originally affiliated with The Frye Institute, Senior Neighbors received its articles of incorporation in November 1960. The incorporators, who became the nucleus of a community board were:

• Mrs. Carl A. Hartung
• Dr. Harry A. Stone
• Mr. Dudley Porter
• Mrs. Hugh Huffaker, Sr.
• Mr. William B. Brown
• Mrs. Gordon P. Street, Sr.
• Mrs. George (Ginny) Power
• Mrs. Charles (Ruth) Thompson
• Mrs. W. A. (Mary) Stem

Two of the founders, Mary Stem and Ginny Power, are shown in the picture on this page. Both of these women were actively teaching exercise classes at Senior Neighbors well into their 80s.

Since its inception, Senior Neighbors has been connecting people with resources to ensure their continued health, wellness, vitality, involvement in the community and engagement in life. Our mission to enable older people to maintain an independent lifestyle is as critical today as it was in 1960.

With five senior programming centers and community-based social, arts, education, recreation, health, employment, training and volunteer opportunities, Senior Neighbors is built on partnerships. Our services are supported by the United Way, Allied Arts of Greater Chattanooga, City of Chattanooga, Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga, City of Soddy-Daisy, Hamilton County, Southeast Area Agency on Aging and Disability, Senior Service America, and Corporation for National and Community Service.