Despite the facility being located near the middle of Warrenton, she wasn't aware of the location until her daughter's Girl Scout troop volunteered one day. Positioned just a block off Highway 47, the center remains a hidden gem for senior citizens and others in the area, according to Williams. "I want to bring more awareness to the community," she said. "I see potential in this place." Williams, now the director, wants to erase a possible misconception the center is only for senior citizens. She said all ages are welcome to eat lunch or participate in one of the numerous activities held weekly. Williams has been employed at the center for the past two years, holding her current position since March. It's been her priority to showcase the center as a place where the doors are open to anyone. The center is located at 501 Ashland Ave. in Warrenton. "It takes the community to help support us," said Williams, who graduated from Warrenton High School and previously taught at the former Warrenton Christian School. "We need our seniors living longer and healthier lives," she said. "We want to keep them from nursing homes as long as possible too." Like many local agencies, the senior center is staying within its means during this unknown economic climate. While half of the center's funding is received from the state of Missouri, the remainder of the budget is made up of contributions, donations and grant money. The center has been in Warrenton since 1974, Williams said. "I would like to see the younger generation get involved and bring younger families in," she said. "They need to see what the senior center means to seniors. They are able to socialize here and learn different services. Lunch runs from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. during the weekdays. The cost is $6.50 for those 60 and under. A suggested donation for visitors over 60 is $3.25, but Williams said paying is not required. The facility is equipped to feed up to 75. "If they don't have it, they don't have it," she said. "We don't say anything." The senior center also has a Meals on Wheels program, running as many as seven routes thanks to the commitment from volunteer drivers. Frozen meals also are available for homebound individuals who aren't located near one of the daily routes. Williams said the center feeds about 100 individuals daily. Weekly activities include various games on Mondays, speakers on Wednesdays and pinochle on Fridays. A monthly newsletter also is produced to alert seniors about upcoming events and provide daily menu selections. Dave Wolff has been a volunteer driver for nearly four years and enjoys the interaction as he drops off meals. "I am a people person," he said. "It's fun to go and visit with them. I'm a face for them to talk to. The people need to know there are people that care about them." Williams noted the center is always looking for volunteer help to either deliver meals or help out in the kitchen. She said most daily shifts last between 9 a.m.-1 p.m. For Dot Welge, working at the senior center is an opportunity to know what's going on around town. "You will know what is on sale and who is having a kid," she said with a laugh. "It's nice talking to a lot of people." For more information on the senior center, call 636-456-3379.