25 Dec 2017 Senior center recognizes James McAlister for his help

The Ola and John Hawks Senior Wellness and Activity Center recently recognized James McAlister for his friendship, help and support in a special way. The center’s fitness center now bears his name. 

During a special celebration before Thanksgiving, center executive director Debra Robinson shared that she is thankful for the new facility and each of the seniors that it serves. She said she was also thankful for “someone who helped us get here and I want to make sure he knows how much he means to all of us and how much we appreciate him.

“He made a decision to come to the center several years ago. It wasn’t an easy decision, and it wasn’t easy walking into a new place during that time in his life. Little did he know at that time the incredible difference that he would make in our lives. His decision to give the center a chance turned into many friendships.”

Debra said that James has helped the center in many ways – from being an Elvis impersonator and assisting with luaus to serving on the center’s board of directors and offering technical engineering expertise. He also was active in the fundraising campaign which made the purchase of the new building possible.

In addition, James has contributed each month to the center and has donated more than any other individual. “Our program wouldn’t be what it is, without him.”

Debra described James as a friend to everyone he meets. “He goes above and beyond and supports others in any way he possibly can,” she said. “For his hard work, dedication, commitment, friendship and his ongoing support, we could not be more pleased to dedicate the James McAlister Fitness Center in his honor.”