About Baker Senior Center Naples
Baker Senior Center
For more information about the author, click to view their website: Baker Senior Center Naples
Jul 09, 2025
Florida - Southwest
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Mission & Origin
Baker Senior Center Naples is dedicated to providing Confidence, Connection, and Support to adults aged 60 and older in Collier and southern Lee counties. Established in January 2014, it became the first senior center in Collier County and is nationally recognized as one of only 111 accredited senior centers in the country. The organization offers a unique blend of evidence-based programs, professional care, and volunteer-led services that empower seniors to live more connected, confident, and enriched lives.
Expansion and New Facility
In 2019, Baker Senior Center Naples launched a visionary capital campaign to build a larger, more comprehensive facility that would meet the growing needs of the region’s senior population. This culminated in the opening of a brand-new 30,000-square-foot center on January 11, 2023. The expanded space includes professional service suites and tranquil outdoor areas, allowing for more robust programming and community engagement. The center is sustained through generous philanthropic support, including donations from individuals, foundations, volunteers, and partner organizations.
Programs and Services
The center focuses on holistic wellness through a variety of enrichment programs and essential human services. Whether a member is seeking educational opportunities, social engagement, mental health support, or wellness programs, they will find a welcoming, respectful environment that empowers them to participate at their own pace. From lifelong learning and fitness to nutrition, dementia support, and counseling, every service is tailored to support independence, purpose, and social connection.
Leadership Team
Executive Leadership
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Dr. Jaclynn Faffer – President/CEO
Dr. Faffer brings over 35 years of experience in human services. She holds a Master’s in Social Work from Tulane University and a doctorate from Yeshiva University. A well-respected leader and published author, she also chairs the Collier County Dementia Care and Cure Initiative and has taught at the university level. -
Marisa Luizzi, CDP – Chief Cognitive Health Officer
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Timothy J. Morrison, CFRE – Chief Development Officer
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Wanda Rodriguez – CFO/COO
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Jennifer Scalia, LCSW – Chief Clinical Officer
The staff includes clinical social workers (LCSWs, MSWs), geriatric case managers, a certified music therapist, development professionals, operations staff, and dedicated volunteer coordinators—all committed to high-quality service and compassion.
Board of Trustees
Executive Officers
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Chair: Karen Heithoff
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Vice Chair: Brian F. Bremer
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Treasurer: Prentiss C. Higgins
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Secretary: Phyllis Barolsky
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Immediate Past Chair: Prentiss C. Higgins
Trustees
The board comprises a diverse group of community leaders and professionals who provide guidance and governance. Trustees include Jeanne Alfiero, Jay H. Baker, Dr. Thomas P. Felke, David D. Hidy, Alan Jaffe, Dr. Sunil Pandya, Leda Zbar, and others. Their combined expertise ensures the strategic vision and sustainability of the organization.
In the News
Baker Senior Center Naples is frequently featured in local and regional media for its innovative approach to aging and community service. Recent highlights include:
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A feature on age-positive messaging in the Naples Daily News
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Recognition of female leadership in Naples Illustrated
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Coverage of increased demand and expansion efforts
The center’s media presence underscores its leadership in senior services and its influence on public discourse around aging and wellness.
Inclusivity & Access
Baker Senior Center Naples operates with a firm commitment to equal opportunity and inclusivity. Its services are offered without discrimination based on race, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status. The organization strives to create a welcoming environment for all seniors in the region.
Contact & Hours
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Location: 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane, Naples, Florida 34119
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Phone: (239) 325-4444
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Email: [email protected]
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Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Baker Senior Center Naples is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization.
Summary
Baker Senior Center Naples is a shining example of how a community can come together to support its aging population. With an expert-led staff, cutting-edge facility, dynamic programming, and robust community backing, the center provides a vibrant, supportive environment where older adults can thrive. From mental health services to music therapy and lifelong learning, every offering is designed to nurture body, mind, and spirit. It continues to set the standard for senior care and engagement in Southwest Florida.
- To view the original version of this article visit www.bakerseniorcenternaples.org/about-us
- Seniors Blue Book was not involved in the creation of this content.
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Baker Senior Center Naples
Support Groups & ServicesEmpowering Older Adults with Confidence, Connection, and SupportBaker Senior Center Naples was established in January 2014 as the first senior center in Collier County, Florida. Since its founding, it has grown into a nationally accredited, full-service resource center dedicated to enhancing the lives of older adults. It is one of only 111 senior centers in the United States to hold national accreditation, a distinction that reflects its commitment to excellence in service delivery. The center is staffed by a team of licensed professionals and supported by a large network of trained volunteers.Mission and VisionThe mission of Baker Senior Center Naples is to provide confidence, connection, and support to adults age 60 and older throughout Collier and southern Lee counties. In 2019, the organization launched a major capital campaign titled Building Our Future. This initiative led to the construction and grand opening of a modern, 30,000-square-foot facility on January 11, 2023. This purpose-built space offers a welcoming environment for programs, services, and peaceful outdoor gardens.Programs and ServicesThe center delivers a wide range of evidence-based services designed to meet the needs of older adults:Mental Health Counseling: Licensed professionals provide individual and group counseling to address depression, anxiety, grief, and memory loss.Cognitive Health Program: A structured dementia respite program and memory loss support groups are offered during the week from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.Geriatric Case Management: Social workers and trained staff assist seniors with aging in place, overcoming loneliness, and accessing vital services.Food Pantry Assistance: The center operates a fully stocked food pantry for older adults facing food insecurity, supported through partnerships with local food banks.The center also offers a robust calendar of enrichment programs, including weekly hot lunches for over 400 participants, fitness and wellness classes, creative arts activities, technology training, cultural experiences, and social engagement opportunities.Commitment to the CommunityLocated at 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane in Naples, Florida, Baker Senior Center Naples is open to all adults age 60 and older. The center operates Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and welcomes participants from all backgrounds and financial situations. As a nonprofit organization, Baker Senior Center Naples is sustained through community support, private donations, and the dedication of hundreds of volunteers.
Baker Senior Center Naples
Dementia CareEmpowering Older Adults with Confidence, Connection, and SupportBaker Senior Center Naples was established in January 2014 as the first senior center in Collier County, Florida. Since its founding, it has grown into a nationally accredited, full-service resource center dedicated to enhancing the lives of older adults. It is one of only 111 senior centers in the United States to hold national accreditation, a distinction that reflects its commitment to excellence in service delivery. The center is staffed by a team of licensed professionals and supported by a large network of trained volunteers.Mission and VisionThe mission of Baker Senior Center Naples is to provide confidence, connection, and support to adults age 60 and older throughout Collier and southern Lee counties. In 2019, the organization launched a major capital campaign titled Building Our Future. This initiative led to the construction and grand opening of a modern, 30,000-square-foot facility on January 11, 2023. This purpose-built space offers a welcoming environment for programs, services, and peaceful outdoor gardens.Programs and ServicesThe center delivers a wide range of evidence-based services designed to meet the needs of older adults:Mental Health Counseling: Licensed professionals provide individual and group counseling to address depression, anxiety, grief, and memory loss.Cognitive Health Program: A structured dementia respite program and memory loss support groups are offered during the week from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.Geriatric Case Management: Social workers and trained staff assist seniors with aging in place, overcoming loneliness, and accessing vital services.Food Pantry Assistance: The center operates a fully stocked food pantry for older adults facing food insecurity, supported through partnerships with local food banks.The center also offers a robust calendar of enrichment programs, including weekly hot lunches for over 400 participants, fitness and wellness classes, creative arts activities, technology training, cultural experiences, and social engagement opportunities.Commitment to the CommunityLocated at 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane in Naples, Florida, Baker Senior Center Naples is open to all adults age 60 and older. The center operates Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and welcomes participants from all backgrounds and financial situations. As a nonprofit organization, Baker Senior Center Naples is sustained through community support, private donations, and the dedication of hundreds of volunteers.
Baker Senior Center Naples
Senior Organizations & ServicesEmpowering Older Adults with Confidence, Connection, and SupportBaker Senior Center Naples was established in January 2014 as the first senior center in Collier County, Florida. Since its founding, it has grown into a nationally accredited, full-service resource center dedicated to enhancing the lives of older adults. It is one of only 111 senior centers in the United States to hold national accreditation, a distinction that reflects its commitment to excellence in service delivery. The center is staffed by a team of licensed professionals and supported by a large network of trained volunteers.Mission and VisionThe mission of Baker Senior Center Naples is to provide confidence, connection, and support to adults age 60 and older throughout Collier and southern Lee counties. In 2019, the organization launched a major capital campaign titled Building Our Future. This initiative led to the construction and grand opening of a modern, 30,000-square-foot facility on January 11, 2023. This purpose-built space offers a welcoming environment for programs, services, and peaceful outdoor gardens.Programs and ServicesThe center delivers a wide range of evidence-based services designed to meet the needs of older adults:Mental Health Counseling: Licensed professionals provide individual and group counseling to address depression, anxiety, grief, and memory loss.Cognitive Health Program: A structured dementia respite program and memory loss support groups are offered during the week from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.Geriatric Case Management: Social workers and trained staff assist seniors with aging in place, overcoming loneliness, and accessing vital services.Food Pantry Assistance: The center operates a fully stocked food pantry for older adults facing food insecurity, supported through partnerships with local food banks.The center also offers a robust calendar of enrichment programs, including weekly hot lunches for over 400 participants, fitness and wellness classes, creative arts activities, technology training, cultural experiences, and social engagement opportunities.Commitment to the CommunityLocated at 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane in Naples, Florida, Baker Senior Center Naples is open to all adults age 60 and older. The center operates Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and welcomes participants from all backgrounds and financial situations. As a nonprofit organization, Baker Senior Center Naples is sustained through community support, private donations, and the dedication of hundreds of volunteers.