A new nonprofit based in Evansville is making dreams come true for older adults across the Tri-State. Tri-State Senior Wishes recently held its first annual silent auction and dinner, calling the event a success and an unforgettable night for supporters.

Founder Jodi Farrell said the idea for the organization began after she met a woman who was forced to choose between paying her electric bill and buying food. That experience led her to create a nonprofit aimed at helping seniors fulfill dreams they may have put off for years.

“We have some where they want to go to the beach. They’ve never seen the ocean. Life just goes so fast, and when your focus is on other things besides yourself and your wants, then before you know it, maybe that’s just not feasible for you any longer to make those trips. Some reconnection with a loved one or a classmate or so. Some are really simple,” Farrell explained.

One of those beach wishes is now being granted thanks to the fundraiser. Earlier this year, the group fulfilled its first wish for an 80-year-old man who wanted to ride a horse. Though doctors did not clear him to ride, Tri-State Senior Wishes arranged a day at Ellis Park where he met jockeys, visited the barns, and watched races from a VIP section.

The nonprofit, which received official status late last year, continues to grow with the help of community support. Farrell said nominations and donations can be made through the organization’s website at tristateseniorwishes.org.

View our First City Focus interview with Jodi Farrell here