New Directions' Stacy Chunn, Jean Clark and Dianne Guthrie

Contributed by St. Dominic Health Services

New Directions for Over 55 was established in 1988 by St. Dominic Health Services Inc. as a way to provide ongoing opportunities for a growing mature adult population in an effort to touch lives in meaningful ways. On May 23, 2013, New Directions will proudly celebrate its 25th Anniversary.

The program has grown to a current membership of 6,945 individuals and now offers more than 200 programs and services annually to adults age 55 and older — making it one of St. Dominic’s most successful and visible community efforts. From art workshops to ballroom dance classes, educational classes, trips and health and medical screenings, New Directions offers a wide variety of activities to suit many interests.

While New Directions offers exciting opportunities and activities for its members, the program also offers a chance for mature adults to foster meaningful friendships with others who have similar lifestyles.

“One of the most positive and unanticipated consequences of my participation in the New Directions program is the meeting of many new friends,” said Lura Scales, New Directions Member. “I call them my ND friends. Each time we see each other at programs or travels, it’s like we’re the old friends we look forward to seeing again.”

Honorine Weiss, New Directions member, said she and her husband were blessed to discover the program when they relocated to Ridgeland after Hurricane Katrina. “New Directions answered so many wants and needs, including education on many health topics, fellowship, entertainment, groups with which to compare similar experiences, short daily and also long trips filled with new experiences with others of like ages and interests,” she said. “There is something for everyone at New Directions such as dancing, crafts or playing cards. If an activity is not offered, all one must do is request it and it will be done. Those who lead at New Directions are some of the most compassionate, caring people that I have known in my lifetime and I am indebted to them.”

The New Directions staff is proud and honored to serve the Metro area community and its mature adult population.

For more information, call 601-200-6698 or visit www.stdom.com.