- The Greater Ishpeming Commission on Aging (GICOA) was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 1982.
- For over 30 years, the center operated out of a building at 320 South Pine Street.
- The organization provided social, nutritional, and health-related services to seniors (ages 60+) in the City of Ishpeming and surrounding townships, including Ely, Tilden, Humboldt, Champion, Michigamme, and Republic.
Our Services
History
The Ishpeming Multi-Purpose Senior Center is operated by the Greater Ishpeming Commission on Aging, a nonprofit organization serving seniors in the Ishpeming area since 1982.
1982–2018
2019
- In October 2019, the original Pine Street building was condemned by Marquette County inspectors due to critical structural issues and code violations.
- The center temporarily relocated its operations to the Ishpeming Armory and other local sites to maintain services for the region's 4,500+ seniors.
2020–2021
- The City of Ishpeming secured a $1.9 million Community Development Block Grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to fund construction of a new facility.
- Construction began in August 2020 at a new site on Greenwood Street. The building was designed to accommodate simultaneous uses including fitness classes, nutrition programs, and private casework.
2021–Present
- The new facility at 121 Greenwood Street officially opened on July 19, 2021.
- While the building is owned by the City of Ishpeming, it is operated under a 50-year lease by the GICOA nonprofit.
- The center serves as a model for rural senior support, providing services ranging from legal aid and tax preparation to functioning as a major transit hub for MarqTran.