About Us
Erin Mabery- Interim Executive Director
Bio to come
Board Members:
Sam Blom- President
Sam Blom was born in the Netherlands and moved to the U.S. with his family in 1957, settling in Midland Park, New Jersey. In 1975, he and his wife bought his childhood home, where they raised two sons, Adam and Aaron—both now living in Arizona.
Sam worked for Public Service Electric and Gas Company from 1968 until his retirement in 2005, when he relocated to Cottonwood, Arizona. He soon became active in the community, coaching boys' varsity soccer at Mingus Union High School and getting involved in local theater at the senior center—where he met Elaine Bremner while volunteering for a fundraiser play.
In 2007, Sam moved to the Village of Oak Creek but continued acting and eventually joined the senior center's board of directors, later becoming president. He also coached AYSO soccer and led the boys’ varsity soccer team at Sedona Red Rock High School to a state finals appearance—their first in 20 years. In 2022, he coached the middle school co-ed team to a Verde Valley Championship.
After retiring from coaching in 2024, Sam began volunteering in a second-grade classroom at West Sedona School. Encouraged by friends and family, he was appointed to the Sedona-Oak Creek Governing Board in September 2024.
Nikkie Pruitt- Vice President
Bio to come
Susan Brown- Secretary
I moved to Cottonwood/Clarkdale in 2002. I have been delivering Meals-On-Wheels for over 20 years. I was involved with the AARP Tax Aide program for 12 years. I have enjoyed many OLLI classes at Yavapai College. I'm currently on the Verde Valley Senior Citizens Board of Directors.
Angala Windsor- Member
Bio to come
Dennis Sterrett- Member
Bio to come
History
The Verde Valley Senior Center has been a cornerstone of community care in Cottonwood, Arizona, for decades. Originally established as a nonprofit 501(c)3 (Verde Valley Senior Citizens Association) to serve the growing needs of local seniors, the Center began as a modest gathering place where older adults could share a meal and connect with others. As the population grew and the need for senior services expanded, so too did the Center’s mission—evolving from a simple social space into a comprehensive support system for aging adults across the region.
Throughout the years, the Center has responded to the changing needs of the community with innovation and compassion. One of its most impactful developments has been the creation and growth of the Meals on Wheels program, which now delivers over 40,000 meals each year to homebound seniors across the Verde Valley. In addition to nutrition support, the Center has expanded to offer entertainment, resources, educational activities, and opportunities for social connection—all designed to promote independence, dignity, and a high quality of life for older adults.
The iconic brick building that houses the Center was built as a transfer station/ and maintenance yard which was used to maintain steam engines during Cottonwood’s refining days. With an eye for growth and a heart of servitude, the Garrison family donated the building along with property that span from 5th Street past Willard to the County. The County then granted the building, to the Verde Valley Senior Citizens Association in October of 2007. Under the watchful eye and incredible vision of the organization’s first and longtime Executive Director, Elaine Bremner, the building was transformed, becoming the historical beauty you see now.
Today, the Verde Valley Senior Center stands as a trusted and vital resource for hundreds of seniors and their families. With the support of local volunteers, donors, and community partners, the Center continues to honor its legacy while building a stronger future—one where every senior in the Verde Valley feels valued, supported, and cared for. As we look ahead, we remain committed to meeting the needs of our aging population with the same compassion and dedication that have defined our history from the very beginning.
The Station on 6th is administered by
The Verde Valley Senior Citizens Association
500 E. Cherry St., Cottonwood, AZ 86326