You Still Have Time to Make a Qualified Charitable Donation

Laura Anderson

Have you decided on the amount of your charitable contribution for your 2025 Arizona state tax return? You still have time. The deadline for donating to Senior Village and have your donation qualify for the 2025 tax credit is April 15, 2026. As a single person filing, you can claim up to $495, and for joint filers, the limit is $987 to receive a dollar-for-dollar state tax credit.

Senior Village is a QCO (Qualifying Charitable Organization) of choice for many in SaddleBrooke, with the assurance that their donation supports their neighbors today and into the future. When completing Tax Forms 321 and 301, use Senior Village’s ID, 20990, to make a donation that benefits your neighbors in SaddleBrooke. And to make this idea even more appealing, taxpayers are allowed to take the Senior Village QCO tax credit and a donation to a school as well.

Donations to Senior Village can be made on our website at seniorvillage.org. You are welcome to come visit us at the office, located at 16460 N. Oracle Road, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Checks can be mailed to P. O. Box. 8584, Tucson, AZ 85738.

Senior Village Highlights Accountability and Vision

Linda Hampton

Senior Village at SaddleBrooke recently demonstrated what community leadership in action looks like during its well-attended community-wide business meeting. Residents gathered with a shared interest in understanding how this local nonprofit operates, how it is governed, and how it plans for the future. The strong turnout reflected both curiosity and confidence in an organization that plays an increasingly important role in support of residents of SaddleBrooke. It was clear that the organization is building upon its core function of supporting aging in place but also being a resource to the entire community.

The meeting provided a clear and accessible overview of Senior Village’s mission and day-to-day operations. The organizational leadership explained how programs are structured to meet member needs and how volunteers, staff, and the community-based board of directors work together to deliver services. Particular attention was given to the organization’s financial health. Attendees were walked through the most recent annual report, which outlined revenues, expenses, and reserves in a straightforward manner, allowing residents to see exactly how funds are managed and allocated. This annual report is also available on the website at seniorvillage.org.

Looking ahead, future plans under consideration were outlined, including program enhancements and long-term sustainability strategies. These conversations underscored that Senior Village is not only responsive to current needs but also thoughtfully planning for the years to come. Equally important was a discussion of governance and oversight. The role of the board and that of the executive director were clarified, addressing such important issues as fiduciary responsibilities and accountability mechanisms, reinforcing confidence in the organization’s leadership.

Residents were invited to explore additional information through Candid, the national organization that evaluates the transparency and financial solidity of nonprofits. Senior Village at SaddleBrooke holds Candid’s highest designation—a Platinum rating—an achievement that speaks volumes about its commitment to openness and best practices.

Perhaps the most striking aspect of the meeting was its tone. This was not simply a presentation of facts, but a clear expression of the organization’s commitment to transparency and community engagement. By openly sharing information and welcoming questions, Senior Village reaffirmed that it is an organization guided by trust, accountability, and a deep respect for the community it serves.

We Are Believers: Greg Nelson

Laura Anderson

Are you a new pickleball player who has taken a class? Then you’ve probably met Greg Nelson. Did you know that in addition to teaching the 1.0 level classes on the court, Greg is a volunteer for Senior Village on the Going My Way team? He has been a volunteer for both the Helping Hands team and Going My Way team since 2016.

Greg joined Senior Village at its inception with the belief that Senior Village is an “ideal organization for SaddleBrooke.” Learning more about Senior Village through his friendship with founder Gary Hammond, Greg elaborated, “SaddleBrooke is a contained population of people. Residents have a sense of community helping people in their neighborhood.”

Greg made a heartfelt connection to the book titled Being Mortal, by Atul Gawande, where the author addresses the needs of the elderly, identifying the ultimate goal of living a good life all the way to the very end. The goal is achieved through the connections that community and a sense of belonging give to residents. Senior Village’s motto, “Neighbors Helping Neighbors,” creates that community bond.

Greg sees the impact that Senior Village makes on his community. Things can change for people instantly, and the fact that Senior Village is here to help is crucial. One member Greg drove experienced a broken hip. “He went from being completely independent to needing help quickly.”

Greg completes 10 to 12 jobs a month, mostly through Helping Hands. “I can ‘cherry pick’ what I do,” he explains. “All the requests are posted, and it is easy to choose what fits into your schedule.” He goes on to say, “I have plenty of time, and this fills my time.” His smile grew as he talked about the light-changing pole his wife Wendie bought him. He enjoys changing those hard-to-reach lightbulbs for members. “It is a quick job to do.”

So, why continue to volunteer for over 10 years? “I enjoy it. I feel like it’s such a great program. I am doing something worthwhile. There are lots of residents who should not be alone, and with Senior Village, their quality of life is so much better. They are grateful when they say, ‘Thank you.’” He concludes his thoughts with “We are believers. It has been a real rewarding experience, and we will continue as long as we can.”

The flexibility offered by Senior Village allows volunteers to pick what they like to do. It is an opportunity to meet new people and build new relationships if that is what you are looking for. For Greg, it “gives you such a good feeling. I need a few strokes on the back!”

Please Join Us for Upcoming Senior Village Events

All dates, times, and locations are subject to change. Visit our website for up-to-date information.

Throughout the year, Senior Village offers an array of opportunities for SaddleBrooke residents to attend free concerts and seminars, socialize, and more. Read on for events and activities coming up in the next few months. For more information, visit www.seniorvillage.org/calendar.

Senior Village’s Annual Report is now available for viewing on our website.

March Music Matinee Featuring David Wemmer and Susie Paine

March 24, 2 p.m., DesertView Performing Arts Center, Free

David has 50 years of experience playing the guitar and singing in a variety of musical styles. Susie comes to SaddleBrooke with three decades of experience singing for the Anchorage Concert Chorus. She is classically trained and has been singing for over 40 years. Together, David and Susie enjoy performing folk, pop, jazz, and blues standards, and they really appreciate the SaddleBrooke audiences!

Friday Fun Game Day

March 27, 1 to 3 p.m., Senior Village Office, 16460 N. Oracle Road, Free

Looking for a fun and friendly way to spend a Friday afternoon? RSVP to attend our monthly social event, Friday Fun Game Day. This free activity is all about enjoying great company and having a fun time together playing a variety of board and card games. We’d love to see you! This event takes place on the fourth Friday of each month. RSVP to Events@seniorvillage.org. Transportation is available for members.

Annual Recycle Event

March 28, 9 a.m. to noon, MountainView Lower Parking Lot

Bring those unwanted and broken appliances to the Senior Village annual Recycling Event. Senior Village partners with Suburban Miners to recycle those hard-to-dispose-of items. For a list of acceptable items, please visit our website seniorvillage.org.

Men’s Social Hour

March 30, 4 to 6 p.m., SaddleBrooke One Bobcat Room (Downstairs) Free

Unwind and enjoy genuine conversations in a laid-back setting at Men’s Social Hour. At this monthly event, community members gather for some real talk and an opportunity to connect. No need to RSVP—show up and be ready to enjoy great company. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax, share experiences, and forge new connections. For more details, contact John O’Brien at john.obrien@seniorvillage.org. Food and drinks are available for purchase.

April Music Matinee Featuring Sonoran Singers

April 7, 2 p.m., DesertView Performing Arts Center

Sonoran Singers ladies choral group began in SaddleBrooke 24 years ago. These vocalists, along with director Cora Peters and accompanist JayeAnn Smith, will sing songs spanning many decades and genres. Songs are chosen to please the diverse audience and some surprises to entertain all.

Senior Village Volunteer Opportunities

If you are looking for a rewarding way to get involved in your community and give back, look no further than Senior Village. Join our team of 425 dedicated volunteers who proudly live the motto “Neighbors Helping Neighbors.” For more information, email Mary Toth, our volunteer coordinator, at mary.toth@seniorvillage.org or call 520-314-1042, press 4.

Learn more about Senior Village and upcoming events online at seniorvillage.org.

Ignite Your Retirement—Volunteer with Senior Village

When people hear the word “volunteering,” many picture retirees with lots of free time. While retirees play a vital role, that picture is far too small, and it leaves out a huge group of people who are just as needed: adults in their 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s.

At Senior Village the truth is simple: Volunteering is for every age, every stage, and every ability. And our neighborhoods are stronger when everyone takes part. Senior Village welcomes volunteers with open arms. We have opportunities for any stage and flexibility to fit any schedule, whether you are retired or still in the working world.

Volunteers are the heart of our community, and we’re ready to welcome new faces. If you’re between 40 and 80+, there are meaningful ways for you to get involved right now. Do you have an hour a week to drive a neighbor to an appointment or errand? Or even 30 minutes to change a lightbulb? Would you prefer to stay home and make connections over the phone that brighten someone’s day? Whatever your interest, Senior Village has the opportunity for you to make a meaningful contribution to your neighbors and the SaddleBrooke community.

If you are new to SaddleBrooke and looking for a way to give back, we are encouraging residents to join our more than 400 volunteers. Our multigenerational volunteer group brings a powerful mix of experience, energy, and fresh perspective that helps keep our programs strong. Even a few hours a month can make a real difference.

Volunteering offers more than just giving back. It’s a chance to meet new people, stay engaged, share your skills, and be part of something that matters. And for our long-time volunteers, your continued dedication and wisdom remain essential. We appreciate each and every one of you.

If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, now is the perfect time to start. We’d love to have you join us. Learn more about our volunteer teams and services we provide on our website at seniorvillage.org. Our volunteer coordinator is Mary Toth. Contact Mary at mary.toth@seniorvillage.org for details.

Who Doesn’t Love a Thank You Card?

Laura Anderson

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, and Senior Village wants to thank all 400 volunteers who give their time and energy to serve members in SaddleBrooke. Our volunteers are invaluable to our organization. If you are a member and have received the gift of time and service from a volunteer, please write a thank you card and send it to us at P. O. Box 8584, Tucson, AZ 85738, or we welcome visitors to our office at 16460 N. Oracle Road Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

We will display all the cards at our Volunteer Appreciation event in April. The deadline for receiving cards at the office is Friday, April 3. We truly enjoy hearing from you and how our volunteers have helped you. We want to spread your gratitude to all the volunteers. Each one makes a difference.