On a crisp autumn morning in 2021, Robin Gilliam found herself walking into the Franklin County Senior Center, not as a director, but as a temporary fill-in for the meals-on-wheels program. The stability of daily routines, the joy of seniors playing cards, and the friendly chatter over cups of coffee were all part of a world she quickly grew fond of. What started as a short-term assignment soon became a passion for the people she served. She saw their joys, their needs, and the keen sense of community that tied them together. Little did she know that this was just the beginning of her journey to becoming an influential part of the center.
For Gilliam, the Franklin County Senior Center is more like a family than a job. She prides herself on treating every member with dignity and respect. “I love them all so much,” she shared, her voice soft with emotion. Her open door policy and hands-on approach have created an atmosphere of transparency and trust where seniors feel safe, valued, and loved.
“I am here because I care about every person that walks through these doors. I want my members to know that I will do everything I can to help them feel safe and welcome here. I’ve developed personal relationships with several of the members here and make every effort to know everyone.”
Gilliam’s career at the Franklin County Senior Center began humbly in 2021 when she stepped in to help with the meals-on-wheels program. Filling in for a site manager on maternity leave, Gilliam found herself connecting with the center’s members in ways she hadn’t anticipated. She became genuinely invested in the well-being of the seniors, their stories, and their lives, feeling the weight of their needs and the joy of their companionship.
As fate would have it, just as her time with meals-on-wheels came to an end, an opportunity opened up at the senior center. Gilliam transitioned to assistant director, eager to learn and serve more heavily.
“I was able to get that job and learn more about the center, and I truly love it here,” she said, reflecting on the journey that had brought her closer to the heart of the community.
When the director decided to retire, Gilliam naturally stepped into the position, driven to bring the seniors closer together. She recognized the pandemic’s negative impact on the community, leaving many seniors feeling isolated.
“I could see the impact COVID had made on the community, and I knew our seniors needed fellowship,” she explained.
Leading with both her heart and a clear vision, Gilliam sought to increase the center’s membership by introducing new activities that catered to diverse interests. However, she also understood that change wasn’t always easy. “Some adjustments were tough for a few members, but we listened and worked through the challenges together,” she said, crediting the open communication and strong relationships she built with the seniors.
Gilliam and her team have taken many memorable trips, from the busy streets of New Orleans to the scenic beauty of Biltmore and Key West, bringing them connection, laughter, and discovery.
“Word sure does get around,” Gilliam said as news of the center’s fun-filled activities spread, attracting more seniors eager to join the tight-knit community.
Under her leadership, the center’s calendar is packed with dances, lunches, and themed “fun days” for quirky holidays like National Toilet Paper Day and National Roadkill Day, which have become beloved traditions among members.
“We really try to make this place special,” Gilliam added proudly.
But Gilliam is quick to acknowledge that none of this would be possible without her dedicated team. With the help of Assistant Director Diane Stoker, Activity Coordinator Tammy Smith, and many volunteers, the center is well known for its warmth and care.
One of Gilliam’s proudest accomplishments was the center’s partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank, organized with the help of Senior Advocates Ed and Rondalynn Gill. Together, they provided a members-only food drive, ensuring seniors in the community were well-fed despite rising grocery costs.
“We are so proud to have been able to help our members this way,” she said.
Looking to the future, Gilliam sees even more significant growth for the center.
“As much as we do here, there will always be seniors in our community that still need help, and my goal is to continue to connect with as many people as I can and provide the support they need.” GN
