Dr. Piper Center for Social Services

The Dr. Piper Center is a nonprofit social services organization which provides multiple services and programs for persons 55 years of age and older.  It was originally founded as a neighborhood center carrying on the ideals of community service exemplified by Dr. Ella Piper as distinguished physician and community leader in Fort Myers during half of the twentieth century. The Center has expanded from a neighborhood center to a major six county wide provider of services while maintaining its neighborhood base. The original building was renovated by  the Fort Myers Redevelopment Agency in 1976 and it was expanded to its present size in 1980 through an Older Americans Act.

A Board of Directors from the community is responsible for policies and over-all supervision of the center.  The day-to-day operations are conducted by an effective, trained staff who are concerned for the well-being of the elders and youth of our communities.

The Dr. Piper Center for Social Services, Inc. is sponsored by:  Corporation for National & Community Service; and grants from Lee County Board of Commissioners, United Way of Lee County, City of Fort Myers and Community Foundations & Private Donations.

Foster Grandparent Program

The Foster Grandparent Program provides meaningful and challenging volunteer opportunities to seniors 60 and older and serves children with special needs.  The heart of the program is the one-on-one attention that our volunteers provide. Foster Grandparents serve   as tutors and mentors to children that are victims of abuse, neglect, chemical dependency, illiteracy or disability.   The emotional benefits of the program are profound and lasting.  The grandparents bring an openness and sensitivity to the challenges of helping children in need.  While bringing enrichment to the lives of the children   they   serve, Foster Grandparents often find that their lives have been enhanced.

Senior Companion Program 

The Senior Companion Program provides volunteer opportunities for people age 60 and older. They   serve the frail elderly individuals especially those   who   are homebound and generally living alone, as well as providing respite care to relieve live-in caretakers for short periods of time.  Taking care of simple chores, running errands, and offering a connection with the outside world are often the essential services that keep older Americans from premature institutionalization. For many the service of a Senior Companion makes life less lonely and often meaningful friendships are formed in their lives.

Senior Employment Program

The Senior Employment Program provides job opportunities for men and women 55 years of age and older through volunteer part time community service work and training.  While getting job experience, Senior Enrollees improve their skill through private sector initiatives and classroom training.  Additional formal and informal training is given on the job and through job development services.  This training enables them to make the transition to full or part time jobs.