In 1977, St. Mary Church in Milton hosted the first Golden Diners in Milton. Marion Allen was one of the volunteers at this nutrition site. She realized that senior citizens needed to have a place of their own where they could have lunch and socialize.
Marion purchased a lot at 715 Campus Street on May 2, 1991 and hired architect Paul Dalberg and builders Ed and J.P. Hale to make her vision a reality. Besides financing the project, Marion was involved in every aspect of the construction, even personally choosing all of the colors and furnishings for each room.
On October 4, 1992, the Gathering Place held its grand opening. And in the over 10 years since, local senior citizens have truly had a "place of their own," thanks to this generous gift to the community from Marion Allen.
In 2004, a video was produced which describes the history of "the Gathering Place."
More Than Just A Place To Have Lunch
The Golden Diners is just one of many opportunities for senior citizens at the Gathering Place.
The Gathering Place offers:
Day trips to theatre, music and sports events
Games and activities
Extended trips
Movies
Special events and workshops
Classes and clubs
Services like blood pressure screening, notary public, exercise equipment, massage therapy and much more
