Wenatchee Valley Senior Activity Center becomes Foothills Community Center

WENATCHEE — The Wenatchee Valley Senior Activity Center is getting a new name with deep roots in a familiar piece of art. Two decades after local artist William R. Fischer painted a sweeping four-season mural along the northeast wall of the center’s social hall, leaders say the vision in that painting helped crystallize who they are and where they’re headed. The organization will now be known as the Foothills Community Center.

Executive Director Lisa Blair credits Fischer’s mural, a panorama of the valley and surrounding hills, with setting the tone for a broader, more welcoming identity. “When he created it, William saw something many of us had not yet — he had a clear vision of who we are, where we live, and what we could become together as neighbors, friends, and family,” Blair said. “With that artwork in front of us every day, the inspiration for a new name for our center became clear.”

The change follows months of discussion, public input and a unanimous vote of the Board of Directors. It also reflects a program mix that has steadily expanded beyond traditional expectations. While the center remains dedicated to serving residents 50 and older, Blair said the new name acknowledges “the broader community that is formed here — a mix of cultures, generations, family, and friends, all with diverse needs and interests.”

Board chair Jim Tarbert underscored that the new banner won’t mean abandoning existing offerings. “We will continue all programs and activities for our rapidly expanding NCW membership and increase opportunities for a more diverse population as space and funds become available,” Tarbert said.

Blair noted the organization has carried several names since its founding, and the latest evolution comes as Wenatchee and surrounding communities grow and change. To avoid confusion during a crucial fundraising season, the transition will be gradual. There will be no major rebranding rollouts until after the New Year, allowing staple efforts — including the annual Holiday Gift Fair in November and participation in Give NCW — to proceed without mixed messaging.

Members and the public can expect incremental changes to signage, print materials and digital channels over the coming months. Director of Communications Russ Alman will provide updates “to keep membership and the public well informed of the changes as they occur,” Blair said.

The new name is also a nod to the community’s direct role in the process. The center received more than 500 name submissions, a response Blair called both inspiring and clarifying. “Thank you to everyone who has been part of this process,” she said, adding that the Foothills identity “honors what we’ve built together and welcomes everyone who already finds connection here.”

For longtime patrons, the landmark mural remains in place — a daily reminder of the place and people the center serves, and now the namesake for the next chapter: Foothills Community Center.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media