History Of ElderServe

ElderServe, Inc. is the oldest and largest agency in the Louisville metropolitan area that serves senior citizens. The agency offers a wide variety of services to persons who are homebound and frail as well as to persons who are well and active. The mission of the agency is to provide a wide range of supportive human services that enables older persons to live secure and self-directed lives.

ElderServe was incorporated as Senior House in 1962 as a result of a study committee established in 1961 by the Community Chest (now Metro United Way). Initial funding for the agency came from the National Council of Jewish Women and the Junior League of Louisville. The agency was admitted into Metro United Way in 1965. At that time, it served over 1,500 elderly each year. On July 26, 1990, the name of Senior House was changed to ElderServe to signify the expansion of social services provided by the agency. It was stated that, "ElderServe" connotes an organization which serves elders and through which elders serve their community."

Today, ElderServe reaches approximately 8,000 of Louisville's seniors through programs designed to allow the elderly to live their vintage years with dignity. At present, ElderServe operates at 2 sites, Dosker Manor in downtown Louisville and the Oak and Acorn Intergenerational Center in West Louisville.