Sponsored by: Serving Seniors Nearly one-third of San Diegans experiencing homelessness are over age 55 and that number continues to grow each year. For the last three decades, one man has been a champion and tireless advocate for San Diego’s most vulnerable seniors. After 30 years of service and leadership at nonprofit Serving Seniors, Paul Downey is retiring. To celebrate his impact, countless seniors showed up to thank the man who showed up for them to change their lives for good. Serving Seniors is the leading nonprofit supporting low-income and homeless older adults in San Diego County. Thirty percent of all San Diegans experiencing homelessness are over age 55. This group is growing each year. The need for services is vital and Serving Seniors has led the way since 1970. Working at sites across the county and in the homes of hundreds of homebound seniors, Serving Seniors provides 1.5 million meals annually along with support services to 6,500 older adults each year. Serving Seniors is the largest provider of meals to seniors in the county and among the few organizations in the nation providing such a broad base of services to vulnerable, at-risk older adults. President & CEO Paul Downey will retire from Serving Seniors in May 2025, leaving a lasting legacy. Serving Seniors will continue to build on for decades to come under the leadership of President & CEO Designate Melinda Forstey. The Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center downtown celebrated its 15th Anniversary in 2025 and is among one of Paul Downey’s greatest accomplishments, providing meals and support services to older adults in need. Serving Seniors is also a leader in developing supportive housing. Its latest project now open in Clairemont has been named the Paul Downey Senior Residence. To learn more, support, or to get involved, call (619) 253-6572 or visit www.servingseniors.org