Fatima Center

At 99 years old, Virginia is full of life. In 2016, she moved from North Carolina to live with one of her two daughters in Cleveland. “I told them I can’t just stay home and not do anything! I was active and driving, knew people, and was involved in organizations.” They found a solution in their own Hough neighborhood at Fatima Family Center, a vibrant place serving children, adults, and seniors.

A widow since 1987, Virginia thrives on learning, moving, and making new friends. At the Fatima Center, she’s enjoyed chair cardio, yoga, line dancing, art classes, live music programs, and even bike rides across the street to historic League Park on one of their three-wheelers. A former elementary school teacher and faithful Baptist, she enjoys the Center’s book club and Bible studies. She loves the “Wandering Wednesday” trips, including a boat ride on Lake Erie, a train trip to Akron, and frequent lunches out. “The Fatima Center has made a big difference in my life. I’m a people person. When I came to Cleveland, I wanted to be a part of what’s going on!”

LaJean Ray is the Center’s director and has lived in the neighborhood for 40 years. “Many of the seniors here take care of one another. For people who live alone, this becomes their family. It’s a nurturing place where we improve quality of life for our seniors.”

Virginia’s secret to reaching 99? She never smoked or used alcohol or drugs. “In Sunday School, the verse I always remembered was ‘Treat others as you want to be treated.’” Her oldest brother was a great inspiration; he raised Virginia and her seven siblings after their parents died when Virginia was a young child.

“I don’t know what the Lord has in store for me. I hope I fulfill my mission. One day at a time, sweet Jesus. That’s all I’m asking.”