I was born in Colorado and raised in a military family, which gave me the chance to see the world, including living in Germany when the Berlin Wall came down and spending a year in Korea. Those experiences helped shape my love for meeting new people, learning new things, and finding ways to make a difference. I have always felt called to help others, whether through a kind word, a small act of care, or simply showing up when someone needs it. Knowing I may have brightened someone’s day or lightened someone’s heart means everything to me. I feel truly grateful to work with the amazing people at the Ukiah Senior Center, where so many share that same heart for helping others.

After many years working in our community as an in-home caregiver for the elderly, I decided to make a change and what better place to utilize my skill set than the Ukiah Senior Center.

I came on board in the year 2006 as the Outreach Assistant. With hard work and dedication to my job I became manager of the Outreach Program. Throughout my many years working at the center I’ve seen a lot of change, some good and some not so good. But the one thing that remains constant is our mission to enhance and improve the quality of life for all Ukiah seniors, their families, and caregivers. To enable seniors to remain as independent as possible for as long as possible.

Fran Roeber is a valued member of the Ukiah Senior Center Thrift Store team, where she helps manage incoming inventory, pricing, and displays. Her love for secondhand treasures runs deep — she grew up around the business, with a grandfather who owned a secondhand store and a father who worked as an auctioneer before hosting weekly barn sales.

Fran first became connected with the Senior Center through volunteering at the Thrift Store, where she quickly felt at home. With her lifelong appreciation for thrifting and her eye for useful, quality items, she now helps keep the store stocked with affordable finds for the community.

Fran enjoys seeing more people embrace thrifting, whether they are looking for a bargain, something unique, or a way to support local seniors. She takes pride in helping make the Thrift Store a welcoming place where shoppers can find something special while supporting the Ukiah Senior Center.

Donna Hookins was born and raised in Southern California. After losing her husband, whom she was married to for 49 years, Donna found a new sense of purpose through the Ukiah Senior Center.

Her journey began when she came to the Senior Center to donate medical equipment. While she was there, she met Gayleen DesRoches, who encouraged her to become a volunteer. Donna decided to give it a try, and just a couple of months later, she became the manager of the USC Thrift Store.

Donna enjoys working alongside the Thrift Store’s dedicated volunteers and getting to know the many customers who visit the store. She is grateful for the friendships, laughter, and sense of community she has found at the Senior Center.

Donna encourages anyone who has a little time to spare to consider volunteering.

“Even if you can volunteer for just a couple of hours a week, please call the Ukiah Senior Center and get signed up. We would love to have you!”

Bio not available.

Christina Staser works in Inventory Management at the Ukiah Senior Center, where she helps with donations, sorting and pricing items, organizing merchandise, stocking shelves, assisting at the register, and supporting the Center’s medical supply program. She enjoys the variety of her work and the opportunity to help people in practical, meaningful ways. Christina brings creativity, kindness, and a helpful spirit to her role, making her a valued part of the Ukiah Senior Center team.

Juan has been a familiar and helpful face around the Ukiah Senior Center for many years. He first discovered the Senior Center simply by walking by, stopping in, and deciding to get involved. He began as a volunteer, coming in regularly and helping wherever he could. Over time, his dedication and willingness to pitch in led to a paid position with the Center.

Today, Juan helps take care of the grounds, Bartlett Hall, the Thrift Store, and general maintenance needs throughout the Senior Center campus. He also assists with food pick-ups from local partners and is always willing to help with whatever needs to be done.

Juan believes volunteering is a wonderful way to get involved, meet people, and find joy in helping others. His advice to anyone thinking about volunteering is simple: “Try it.” He knows firsthand that volunteering can lead to friendships, connection, and a true sense of community.

Through his hard work, kindness, and steady presence, Juan helps keep the Ukiah Senior Center welcoming, cared for, and running smoothly for everyone who walks through the doors.

My early work experience was in the building trades: house construction and remodeling. Later I worked at a local school in Ukiah doing custodial and maintenance work for 15 years. My wife and I have been members of the Ukiah Senior Center for the last 10 years. We are both very involved in our church and community, she with Adventist Ukiah Residency Program and I with Plowshares and the Food Bank.