For more information about the author, click to view their website: Healthcare Network
Jerry F. Nichols is a stellar example of continuing to work
and support his community long after many have retired.
At age 79, he continues to serve as full-time executive vice
president of Brown & Brown Insurance and financial representative for
Northwestern Mutual. Also, for many decades, Nichols has quietly set an inspiring
example through philanthropy, dedicated to improving the lives of children and
working adults in Southwest Florida.
Combining his career success and philanthropy is something
Nichols was recognized for five times by the Northwestern Mutual Financial
Network. Nichols was also named a Junior Achievement Hall of Fame Laureate,
which honors influential, visionary leaders who have significantly impacted the
educational landscape for youth in Southwest Florida in entrepreneurship, work
readiness and financial literacy.
Late last year, Nichols solidified this commitment to the
community by making the first major donation to Healthcare Network’s capital
campaign. This donation will support the construction of the nonprofit organization’s
planned 20,000-square-foot health center in the Orangetree area of Golden Gate
Estates, ensuring essential access to affordable healthcare for the community.
“The Orangetree area has grown over 75% in the last several
years, which makes the lack of healthcare services alarming,” said Jamie Ulmer,
Healthcare Network president and CEO. “Jerry’s
continued support of our mission is a testament to his generosity and
commitment to making Collier County a healthier place for everyone.”
Located in northeastern Collier County between Ave Maria and
Golden Gate, the planned health center is projected to provide care to nearly 30,000
patients in its first year. The array of comprehensive services will include
pediatrics, adult and senior care, obstetrics and gynecology, dental care,
x-ray and lab, behavioral health counseling and a drive-thru pharmacy.
“I believe health care is vital to keeping any community
thriving,” Nichols said. “Everyone should have access to essential primary care
services. Supporting the construction of the new health center means that
Orangetree residents, including vulnerable children and seniors, have access to
affordable and comprehensive care without needing to leave their own
community.”
In 2018, Nichols received Healthcare Networker of the Year
Award for his pivotal role in
supporting the improvement of pediatric care in Collier County for thousands of
area children. Then, he was recognized as the lead donor for the Nichols
Community Health Center, a 50,000-square-foot primary health care facility in
the heart of the Golden Gate community that opened in 2020. This center
significantly enhanced essential healthcare services for the largest
underserved population in Collier County. Along with the Nichols Pediatric
Center at the YMCA of Collier County, it reinforces Nichols’ vision of making
quality healthcare accessible to all children and their families in Southwest
Florida.
Nichols has not only made financial contributions
but has also dedicated his time to numerous causes, primarily focusing on local
children and education. Some
of the many not-for-profit organizations supported by him include the
Boys and Girls Club of Collier County, Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida,
the Community Foundation of Collier County, the Ronald McDonald House of SWFL, and Healthcare Network’s Ronald McDonald Care Mobile. In addition, Nichols provides
support to various Lee Health programs, including Golisano Children’s Hospital,
Golisano Children’s Health Center in Naples, and Golisano’s Pediatric
Behavioral Health Center in Bonita Springs.
Program OverviewBaker Senior Center Naples offers Geriatric Mental Health Counseling to address the emotional and psychological challenges commonly experienced by older adults and their families. The program provides licensed, professional outpatient therapy in a supportive setting, including individual, couples, family, and group sessions tailored specifically for seniors.Who It's ForThis program supports seniors and caregivers dealing with: Anxiety and stress Depression Grief and loss Major life transitions (such as retirement or chronic illness) Cognitive changes Low self-esteem Anger, trauma, or unresolved emotional pain Loneliness and isolation Caregiver burnout What It Offers Outpatient Counseling: Confidential therapy for individuals or families needing support. Licensed Clinicians: Therapists are credentialed professionals with extensive geriatric experience. Holistic Mental Health Support: Services are goal-directed and client-centered, often incorporating creative therapies like music and group discussion. Support for Cognitive Conditions: Programming also benefits those experiencing memory loss, combining emotional guidance with social engagement. This program is vital for older adults who may be underserved by traditional mental health services or hesitant to seek help elsewhere.Funding & AccessibilityBaker Senior Center Naples is committed to removing financial barriers to mental health care. The program is: Partially grant-funded, ensuring low or no-cost therapy for qualifying individuals. Insurance-friendly, with many services covered under Medicare or private plans. Supported by donors and foundations, allowing expansion to meet the increasing mental health needs of older adults in Collier and southern Lee counties. Real-Life ImpactThe center has served dozens of seniors facing grief, depression, and isolation. One participant shared how therapy helped her cope with the loss of her spouse, regain emotional balance, and reconnect with life. These stories demonstrate the programs power to transform sadness into strength and disconnection into resilience.Leadership & Clinical Oversight The program is led by Pamela Osborne, LCSW, Chief Clinical Officer, who brings over three decades of experience in geriatric counseling and mental health services. She ensures clinical quality, therapist credentialing, and integration with the centers other programs, such as case management, caregiver support, and memory care services. Why It MattersChallengeSolutionSeniors facing grief or depressionPrivate, professional therapy sessionsCaregivers experiencing burnoutCouples or family counseling for stress reliefEmotional struggles from chronic illnessSupport groups and resilience coachingIsolation and loss of purposeGroup therapy and community-based activitiesLife transitions and role changesShort-term therapeutic support with clear goalsThis program not only supports emotional healing but also promotes dignity, independence, and improved quality of life. How to Access Services Eligibility: Adults aged 60 and older; family caregivers may also participate. Referrals: Seniors can self-refer or be referred by healthcare providers, family members, or case managers. Scheduling Appointments: Call the center directly to discuss availability, insurance coverage, or financial assistance options. Final ThoughtsGeriatric Mental Health Counseling at Baker Senior Center Naples is more than a clinical serviceit is a compassionate bridge to emotional wellbeing for older adults. Through professional counseling, strong leadership, and inclusive access, the center empowers seniors to overcome emotional hardships, reduce isolation, and build healthier, more connected lives. If you or a loved one are facing emotional challenges, Baker Senior Center Naples is ready to helpconfidentially, compassionately, and professionally.
Overview & Why It MattersLoneliness, isolation, and complex health needs are pressing challenges for older adults. In Naples alone: Approximately 1 in 3 seniors wakes up feeling isolated each morning. Loneliness among older adults is associated with a 45% increased risk of mortality. Over 22,000 seniors in Naples live with dementia, and Alzheimers is diagnosed every 66 seconds nationwide. Reddit+12Baker Senior Center Naples+12BenefitsCheckUp+12 To address these challenges, Baker Senior Center Naples offers a robust Geriatric Case Management program designed to help seniors thrive at home, safely and with dignity. What the Program ProvidesProfessional Case Manager Services Conducts comprehensive in-home assessments, including daily living needs, home safety, and fall risk. Develops tailored care plans that may include community referrals, caregiver support, and benefits assistance. Maintains ongoing monitoring and plan adjustments to ensure evolving needs are met. Coordinates Medicare/Medicaid navigation, ensuring access to essential health coverage. Baker Senior Center Naples Volunteer Support Network Offers welfare checks, friendly phone calls, transportation assistance, and social engagement visits. Hosts programs like Music & Memory, delivering meaningful interaction for those with cognitive impairment. Baker Senior Center Naples+1csw.fsu.edu+1 Transportation & AccessibilitySeniors can access non-emergency medical transporttaxis or public transitwith door-to-door service that accommodates essentials like packages and service animals. Flexible scheduling (from same-day to weekly booking) is available, with insurance, voucher, or membership-based payment options. BenefitsCheckUp Impact & Reach Serves over 140 frail seniors, helping them maintain independence and manage chronic health conditions. Baker Senior Center Naples+5Baker Senior Center Naples+5BenefitsCheckUp+5 Funded in part by a $242,500 grant from the Collier Community Foundation, enabling staff expansion to assist around 50 additional low- to moderate-income seniors and handle up to 1,500 case calls yearly. swfloridabusinesstoday.com+4swfloridabusinesstoday.com+4swfloridabusinesstoday.com+4 Extensions & Oversight Part of Baker Senior Centers comprehensive services including clinical mental health care and dementia respite programming overseen by a licensed clinical officer. Reddit+12swfloridabusinesstoday.com+12Baker Senior Center Naples+12 Megan Edwards, CCM, appointed in November 2024 as Director of Geriatric Case Management, enhances reach into under-served populations, supporting independence and reducing homelessness risk. Baker Senior Center Naples+2swfloridabusinesstoday.com+2Baker Senior Center Naples+2 Benefits for Seniors & FamiliesBenefitDescriptionSafety & IndependenceProfessional in-home assessments and care coordination support aging in place.Holistic SupportCombines practical help (transportaging, tech assistance) with emotional and cognitive engagement.Advocacy & AccessGuides seniors through complex systems like Medicare/Medicaid and community services.Isolation ReductionRegular interaction via volunteer visits promotes resilience and social wellbeing. How to Access the Program Eligibility: Adults 60+ in Collier and southern Lee counties; frail or isolated seniors are prioritized. Enrollment: Contact the Center at (239) 3254444 or email for an intake appointment to initiate assessment and care plan development. BenefitsCheckUp+2Baker Senior Center Naples+2Baker Senior Center Naples+2Intellispect+7Baker Senior Center Naples+7Baker Senior Center Naples+7 Summary Baker Senior Center Naples Geriatric Case Management program empowers older adults to remain healthy, connected, and safe in their own homes. Through in-home professional assessments, tailored care plans, volunteer support, and transportation services, this initiative addresses critical needs such as social isolation, health navigation, and quality-of-life concerns. Backed by clinical oversight, community grants, and a strong volunteer force, the program plays a vital role in the centers mission to enrich the lives of seniors in Southwest Florida.
Baker Senior Center Naples sets the stage for vibrant, purpose-driven experiences tailored for adults aged 60 and above. Heres an in-depth look at their dynamic member programs: Core PhilosophyPrograms are thoughtfully crafted to help seniors socialize, stay active, and continue learning in an uplifting, nurturing environment. They equip participants to navigate lifes shifts with ease and confidence Facebook+8Baker Senior Center Naples+8YouTube+8. Weekly Wednesday Hot LunchA cornerstone of their offerings, the midday lunch gathers around 400 members. Its more than a mealits community. It fosters connection and camaraderie while members enjoy social interaction in a welcoming atmosphere . Cyber Caf & Tech ClassesThe Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Cyber Caf invites members to unwind over coffee and conversation. Beyond leisure, tech workshopscovering smartphones, tablets, and computersempower seniors to stay digitally connected and confident . Arts, Culture & Enrichment ProgramsFrom painting, decoupage, and watercolor to resin creations and readers theater, the center brims with artistic inspiration. Cultural touchpoints like opera viewings, travelogue presentations, film screenings, jazz evenings, and guest lecture series (e.g., on Northern Thailand and nutrition labeling) enrich the mind and spirit . Exercise & Wellness ActivitiesDesigned to promote strength, flexibility, and balance, offerings include: Total Fitness, Senior Fitness, Move & Groove Bone Building Fitness, Tai Chi, Chair Yoga Balance & Posture, Karate Fitness, Flex & Thrive Line Dancing, Morning Yoga, Veterans' Mobility These gentle yet effective sessions support excellent physical well-being DOEA. Mind & Memory EnrichmentMembers engage in mindfulness meditation, origami, trivia, current events, writing groups, and more. Regular documentary features like Our Oceans and bi-weekly movie matinees create shared moments of reflection and dialogue . Music & Social ClubsLearn ukulele, join drum circles or karaoke lounges, take part in the Happy Ukulele Group (HUGS), garden with peers, or enjoy instrument-based gatherings. These social options keep camaraderie thriving . Monthly Featured EventsEach month, exclusive highlights include: Paint the Town evenings Lectures like Northern Thailand Chiang Mai and Lamphun Performances: Gypsy Jazz, Twilight Cabaret, opera presentations Screenings of foreign films such as Jean DiFflorette These events offer rich intellectual and cultural engagement Facebook+3DOEA+3Baker Senior Center Naples+3. Sample Daily ScheduleMondayThursday see packed days: Mornings begin with fitness or creative arts. Midday features hot lunch, documentaries, and social gatherings. Afternoons offer painting, writing, dancing, meditation, and games. Fridays focus on leisure: gardening, cards, games, film screenings, drum circles, art, chess, and comedy clubs form a light-hearted farewell to the week . Dementia & Memory-Focused BreaksThe center supports early memory loss through Brookdale Cognitive Healthstructured activities using music, art, gentle exercise, and socialization to foster cognitive wellness. Caregiver support groups provide much-needed respite and community Baker Senior Center Naples+1Baker Senior Center Naples+1. Watch this quick news segment on how their dementia respite groups are making a real difference: Membership & Access Available to adults 60 and older. Members enroll via MyActiveCenter to reserve classes or events. Non-members can join by applying in person or contacting the center. Programs are offered at minimal or no cost, with many covered by insurance or included in membership Baker Senior Center Naples. Why It MattersBaker Senior Center Naples is more than a community hubits a lifeline. It combats isolation, nurtures lifelong learning, supports mental health, encourages physical activity, and offers crucial support for memory loss and caregiving. Its inclusive, vibrant programming promotes personal growth, connections, and well-being.Interested? Explore the monthly schedule or newsletter for upcoming events. New members can apply at 6200 Autumn Oaks Lane or call (239)3254444. Ask about caregiver support sessions, dementia respite, or tech help. Let me know if you'd like a formatted overview for a flyer or tips on how to highlight certain programs!
Healthcare Network is dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible healthcare to everyone in Collier County, regardless of job, income, or insurance status. Our comprehensive services include children's care, pediatric convenient care, family care, women's care, senior care, dental care, behavioral health, pharmacy, and specialty services.As Southwest Floridas premier patient-centered medical and dental home, our providers work collaboratively as a care team to deliver the highest level of coordinated care for patients of all ages. Since 1977, our private, not-for-profit model has been effective in meeting the healthcare needs of the community. We rely on philanthropic support to ensure we continue to achieve our vision of a community where every person has access to affordable and appropriate healthcare.Healthcare Network is committed to delivering culturally competent care, addressing health disparities, and supporting the overall wellness of our patients. Join us on our mission to make healthcare more accessible and to create a healthier community for all.All Locations:1265 Creekside Pkwy. #206, Naples 34108 1090 6th Ave N. Naples 34102 1845 Veterans Park Dr., Naples 34109 5450 YMCA Rd. #102, Naples 34109 6350 Davis Blvd. #1001, Naples 34104 1749 Heritage Trl. #801 Naples 34104 2355 Stanford Ct., Naples 34112 1454 Madison Ave. W., Immokalee 34142 1441 Heritage Blvd., Immokalee 34142 508 N. 9th St. #142, Immokalee 34142 12655 Collier Blvd. Naples 34116
Healthcare Network is dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible healthcare to everyone in Collier County, regardless of job, income, or insurance status. Our comprehensive services include children's care, pediatric convenient care, family care, women's care, senior care, dental care, behavioral health, pharmacy, and specialty services.As Southwest Floridas premier patient-centered medical and dental home, our providers work collaboratively as a care team to deliver the highest level of coordinated care for patients of all ages. Since 1977, our private, not-for-profit model has been effective in meeting the healthcare needs of the community. We rely on philanthropic support to ensure we continue to achieve our vision of a community where every person has access to affordable and appropriate healthcare.Healthcare Network is committed to delivering culturally competent care, addressing health disparities, and supporting the overall wellness of our patients. Join us on our mission to make healthcare more accessible and to create a healthier community for all.All Locations:1265 Creekside Pkwy. #206, Naples 34108 1090 6th Ave N. Naples 34102 1845 Veterans Park Dr., Naples 34109 5450 YMCA Rd. #102, Naples 34109 6350 Davis Blvd. #1001, Naples 34104 1749 Heritage Trl. #801 Naples 34104 2355 Stanford Ct., Naples 34112 1454 Madison Ave. W., Immokalee 34142 1441 Heritage Blvd., Immokalee 34142 508 N. 9th St. #142, Immokalee 34142 12655 Collier Blvd. Naples 34116
Healthcare Network is dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible healthcare to everyone in Collier County, regardless of job, income, or insurance status. Our comprehensive services include children's care, pediatric convenient care, family care, women's care, senior care, dental care, behavioral health, pharmacy, and specialty services.As Southwest Floridas premier patient-centered medical and dental home, our providers work collaboratively as a care team to deliver the highest level of coordinated care for patients of all ages. Since 1977, our private, not-for-profit model has been effective in meeting the healthcare needs of the community. We rely on philanthropic support to ensure we continue to achieve our vision of a community where every person has access to affordable and appropriate healthcare.Healthcare Network is committed to delivering culturally competent care, addressing health disparities, and supporting the overall wellness of our patients. Join us on our mission to make healthcare more accessible and to create a healthier community for all.All Locations:1265 Creekside Pkwy. #206, Naples 34108 1090 6th Ave N. Naples 34102 1845 Veterans Park Dr., Naples 34109 5450 YMCA Rd. #102, Naples 34109 6350 Davis Blvd. #1001, Naples 34104 1749 Heritage Trl. #801 Naples 34104 2355 Stanford Ct., Naples 34112 1454 Madison Ave. W., Immokalee 34142 1441 Heritage Blvd., Immokalee 34142 508 N. 9th St. #142, Immokalee 34142 12655 Collier Blvd. Naples 34116