For 54 years, Silver Key Senior Services has helped older adults in the Colorado Springs area maintain independence and dignity through a wide range of programs—from affordable housing and transportation to nutrition, companionship and senior activity centers. 

That mission comes full circle for President and CEO Jason DeaBueno, who began his journey with Silver Key as a boy riding the bus with his great-grandmother, Lupe. They traveled together to the senior center for meals and friendship—two essential parts of Silver Key’s holistic approach.”

MEETING NEEDS ONE PROGRAM AT A TIME 

Connection Cafés are scattered across 13 convenient locations in the Pikes Peak Region. Meals on Wheels delivers dinners for those who are homebound. 

Silver Key meets practical daily needs in other ways also. Two thrift stores offer inexpensive clothes and home goods. The Murray Boulevard location features a department with mobility aids, including canes, walkers, shower chairs and wheelchairs.

Fifty buses provide transportation in Colorado Springs, primarily for medical services. 

Silver Key addresses companionship needs through its Calls of Reassurance program, providing a friendly phone check-in one to three times per week. Those with a greater socialization need receive a 60-minute weekly visit from a trained staff member and a volunteer who assists with light tasks, errands and a hot meal.

Silver Key’s community roots go back to 1971, when local concerned citizens, including founder Betsey Myers-Burroughs and advocate and first board chairman Clifford King, wanted to improve seniors’ quality of life. Through the energetic leadership of Executive Director Mikki Kraushaar, funding from the Older Americans’ Act and the service of tireless volunteers, Silver Key opened its doors. 

“We have over 500 volunteers that are the heartbeat of our organization,” DeaBueno said. “Silver Key operates with the heart and the soul of these selfless men and women.”

One way volunteers support the organization is through the Pantry, where seniors can shop for nutritious groceries and essential items. On Friday afternoons, the Pantry bustles with seniors picking up groceries and flowers donated by Trader Joe’s.

DeaBueno told of a woman patiently waiting her turn to shop. She expressed appreciation for the kindness of the staff and the food she receives.

“But—my husband passed away three months ago, and I miss him desperately,” she said.

With tears in her eyes, she added, “Last year, he put a red rose on the breakfast table every week. By getting flowers at Silver Key every week, I feel as if he is present with me again.” 

It’s stories like this that remind DeaBueno why Silver Key’s mission to combat senior isolation matters more than ever.

CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME

The new Silver Key affordable apartment complex was complete and fully leased out by the end of 2024. There are 50 units—13 for veterans and the rest for low-income seniors 62 and older. Over 400 people are on the waitlist. 

“No matter how much we build, there is always a big need,” DeaBueno said. 

Silver Key also strives to keep seniors living in their homes as long as possible through help with repairs and improvements, like home modification and ramps.

“We are able to coordinate services around an individual who may not know what they qualify for,” DeaBueno said. 

There are two hubs for activities at the north and south ends of the city: Tri-Lakes Senior Center (newly relocated to Monument Community Presbyterian Church) and the new Activity Center South. Both offer programs and events to enhance seniors’ lives.

Exercise plays a big role, with classes including cardio drumming, Zumba, meditation and chair yoga. Scholarships are available. 

Seniors can also explore crafting, play board games, enjoy music or attend educational workshops.

The Digital Experience Hubs are training programs for older adults, where “digital immigrants” are trained by “digital natives” in all things technology.

From its humble beginnings rooted in compassion, Silver Key has grown into a lifeline for seniors in the Pikes Peak Region. With more than 12,000 assisted last year, the nonprofit remains resolute in its goal of ensuring that no senior faces aging alone.