 
Kent County Community Action Launches El Centro Explora Program for Older Adults, With lnaugural Field Trip to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Grand Rapids, MI (June 9, 2026) - Kent County Community Action (KCCA) Senior Services is celebrating the successful launch of El Centro Explora, a new field trip program that connects older adults with cultural, educational, and recreational experiences throughout West Michigan.
The program's inaugural outing took place at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, where 20 seniors spent a beautiful 70-degree day exploring the gardens, viewing the internationally acclaimed Dale Chihuly exhibit, riding the tram, and enjoying a picnic lunch together. For many participants, it was a rare opportunity to visit one of West Michigan's most popular attractions.
El Centro Explora was created to expand opportunities for older adults participating in the El Centro Congregate Meals Program, helping them stay active, engaged, and connected to their community. The initiative is made possible through grant funding from Molina Healthcare and the Michigan Association of Senior Centers.
The funding helps remove financial barriers that can prevent older adults from participating in community activities by covering admission costs, while transportation is provided through KCCA Senior Services. As a result, participants can enjoy these enriching experiences at no cost.
Upcoming excursions will include visits to Kent County Millennium Park, John Ball Zoo, and other destinations across West Michigan.
"We are incredibly grateful to Molina Healthcare and the Michigan Association of Senior Centers for making El Centro Explora possible," said Rachel Kunnath, Manager of Senior Services at KCCA. "Many of the older adults we serve live on limited incomes and would not otherwise have the opportunity to experience these local treasures. These outings provide more than recreation - they promote wellness, lifelong learning, social connection, and a sense of belonging while helping seniors remain active and engaged in the community. For anyone interested in supporting this program, community members can contribute financially at kentcountymi.gov/KCCAdonate and select “Senior Activities” as the donation type.”
El Centro Explora reflects KCCA's ongoing commitment to supporting healthy aging and enhancing quality of life through meaningful opportunities for exploration, learning, and social engagement.
For more information about KCCA Senior Services and El Centro Explora, visit here.
 
ABOUT KCCA
Kent County Community Action’s mission is to alleviate poverty in Kent County by supporting individuals and families on their path to long‑term self‑sufficiency. We provide essential services that address immediate needs, including food access, utility assistance, transportation, and other housing resources. Follow Kent County Community Action on Facebook or visit our website to learn more about the department.
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