A space that used to be an attached garage is now a recreation and rehabilitation room at Clay Street Center, thanks to a Greenville Area Community Foundation (GACF) grant.  

Clay Street, an adult day service center designed for people over 60-years-old who need supervision and assistance, is located in Greenville. Members are seniors who need daily help but still live with a family member in the community. “Quality of life is enhanced when older adults continue to live in the community versus living in a nursing home,” said Sally Fox-Bolek, Clay Street founder and director. 

She said staff and volunteers provide a variety of programming for participants, including music, art, travelogues, a Zumba class, and memory-stimulating games. The new room allows for easy access to daily exercise and physical therapy as needed.  “Both are vital in improving/maintaining strength, balance, mobility, and in preventing falls,” she said.  

The space is used beyond Clay Street members, with unaffiliated seniors also being able to receive therapy from Hulst Jepsen Physical Therapy. Fox-Bolek said the “large and beautiful” space and all the events in it would not be possible without GACF.  

“I have been impressed with their strong dedication to improving the lives of every member of our community,” she said. “Their investment in nonprofit organizations goes beyond financial…GACF has been a tremendous supporter of Clay Street Center and I will be forever grateful! The grants we have received have helped make the center the wonderful place it is today.” 

As GACF celebrates its 35th anniversary, we bring together the collective stories of donors, nonprofits, students, and community members to demonstrate the power of philanthropy in creating lasting impact and a stronger future.