ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - A Metro East non-profit is trying to help older adults make connections in advance of Valentine's Day.
Senior Services Plus has been in operation for over 51 years, with the non-profit most notable for their Meals On Wheels program, which serving food to residents in Madison and St. Clair County. Now the non-profit is entering a new world to help senior citizens combat the issue of self-isolation: speeding dating.
On Friday, Feb. 9, the non-profit is hosting a speed dating event for seniors over the age of 55 from 2-4 p.m. at the non-profit's School House Grill, located at 2603 North Rodgers Ave. in Alton, Illinois.
"After COVID, we took a survey and asked people what they wanted to get back doing and speed dating was one of the things they wanted to do," said Event Coordinator Sydney Peckham on Total Information A.M. Thursday.
Each participant will get two to three minutes to meet someone. Before the event, participants were asked what they were looking for from the event ahead of time. Along that, the non-profit will be give questions that are already created by the non-profit to help participants, as well as being advised to avoid talking about any controversial or sensitive topics.
At the end of the event, they will take a survey to see who they would like to connect more with afterwards, and the non-profit will help to exchange information.
"We'll have staff posted around the room as well, so if anyone does feel uncomfortable or we need to step in, we are here to help relieve any information," said Senior Services Plus Development Director Emily Jackson
The event isn't just a way for older residents to find new love, it's also a chance for them to create new friendships.
"Social isolation is a very big issue for adults as they age," said Jackson. "We wanted to offer this social connection as an option to take a little bit of pressure off. People aren't just looking for love, maybe they are looking for simple companionship and friendship."
Those who are interested in the speed dating event can sign up on Social Service Plus website or can just show up to the event as walk-ins are allowed. Tickets are $10.
