Women of Note: Betti Wetherell makes sure area seniors have a place to go for meals and camaraderie
by Terry Sommer
Leaving their home in Trenton in 1997, Betti Wetherell along with her husband, Edward, and their children Terry, Ronnie, and Lisa, became Stockbridge Township residents.
After the family settled into their new home, Betti and Ed became active in helping the Stockbridge Area Chamber of Commerce by focusing on the Day in the Village events. They organized a treasure hunt for the children and two golf outings at Willow Creek golf course.
It was at one of the golf outings that Betti was approached by a member of the Tri-County Office on Aging. Appreciating her willingness to serve others, a discussion ensued and the member asked Betti if she would help with the serving of lunches to senior citizens at the Stockbridge Township Hall. Betti accepted the challenge and proceeded to serve senior lunches at that location for over 10 years.
In no time, Betti’s name became synonymous with the senior lunch program. Her dedication and hard work led to her being approached, yet again, but this time she was asked if she was available to work on opening a senior citizen center in Stockbridge.
With the support of her family, Betti took on the challenging yet rewarding tasks of setting up a board, finding sponsors and grants, securing a building, and arranging for renovations. With continued perseverance and assistance from many, the Stockbridge Area Senior Center, located at 219 W. Elm St. in Stockbridge, became a reality. The SASC grand opening was celebrated in 2022, and since then membership continues to increase.
The senior center encourages and supports the overall wellness, health and connectivity of the area’s older adults. The center boasts a friendly gathering space and an inclusive culture with enriching activities, events, education—and of course, meals.
One member was recently overheard saying, “If I didn’t have this place I would be sitting home alone.” Many others have voiced similar appreciation for this home away from home for seniors.
Before moving to Stockbridge Betti was focused on raising her children and supporting her husband in his career. But even then, she found time to work as a bus driver and later in customer service at a butcher shop. In those rare moments when she found some spare time, she enjoyed her favorite hobby of sewing.
Betti believes that in today’s world women must be personable and strong, but bendable. She attributes much of her success to these qualities. She also offers acclamation to the many women who donate their time and talents at the various activities Stockbridge offers.