A Decade of Heart: How CHEER Transformed Senior Life in the 1990s
The 1990s were more than just the era of flannel shirts and dial-up internet—for seniors in Sussex County, they were a decade of explosive growth, innovation, and community spirit. From a milestone anniversary to a game-changing million-dollar gift, the 1990s solidified CHEER, Inc. (then Sussex County Senior Services) as the heartbeat of the community.
Celebrating Twenty Years of Service
The decade kicked off with a bang in July 1991 as CHEER celebrated its 20th anniversary. At the time, Director Arlene Littleton shared some staggering statistics from the previous year that proved just how vital the organization had become:
- Meals Served: Over 200,000 meals across 10 different centers.
- Miles Logged: Over 300,000 miles of transportation provided.
- Volunteer Power: 300 dedicated volunteers were delivering meals to the homebound five days a week.
Innovation on Wheels: The Mini-Market
In 1993, CHEER realized that getting to the grocery store was a significant hurdle for many. Their solution? The Mini-Market. This service utilized a 29-foot Ford van to deliver groceries four days a week directly to homebound clients. The operation was kept running smoothly by Lester Bunting and Charlie Rogers, who maintained and drove the vehicle.
A Kaleidoscope of Services
By the mid-90s, CHEER had evolved into a multifaceted support system. The “menu” of services in 1993 was remarkably diverse, proving that “senior services” meant much more than just a hot lunch:
- CHEER Home Services: Personal care, light housekeeping, and errand running.
- CHEER-a-Pets: A unique program bringing pets to visit members.
- The CHEERful Crab Boutique: A retail presence at the Rehoboth Mall selling beautiful handmade items.
- The CHEER Ups: A professional clown troupe that brought laughter to public performances.
- Delaware Senior Olympics: Promoting fitness and healthy competition.
The Gift That Changed Everything
The trajectory of the organization shifted forever in 1998 thanks to an extraordinary act of kindness. Brothers Warren L. and Charles C. Allen, Jr., prominent local businessmen and long-time philanthropists, donated $1.1 million to fund a brand-new Community Center.
Despite their massive impact, the Allen brothers were famously modest. Director Littleton recalled that they initially wanted the donation to remain confidential; it took significant convincing to get them to allow their names to be featured on the building.
1999: The New Georgetown Vision
By October 1999, the “new” CHEER community center in Georgetown had become a high-tech, high-energy hub. It wasn’t just a place for a meal; it was a lifestyle destination featuring:
- The Sand Hill Café: Opening at 7 a.m. for snacks and meals throughout the day.
- Recreation: Dance classes, a glee club, and competitive pool and dart tournaments.
- Specialized Care: The Later Lifestyle Center provided adult day services (including grooming and massage), alongside a specialized Alzheimer’s center for individualized support.
As the decade drew to a close, the campus expanded even further with the planned opening of a 60-unit senior apartment complex in December 1999, ensuring that for many, CHEER wasn’t just a place to visit—it was home.
A Mission for Today and Tomorrow
CHEER’s core mission today remains true to its founding principles: “to promote and maintain the highest quality of life and independence by developing and providing services that meet the continuing needs of senior citizens 50 and over.”
Today, the urgency is greater than ever. With more people retiring across the U.S. and choosing to settle in Sussex County, the senior population is expanding at a rapid clip. CHEER serves many of Sussex County’s over-50 demographic, providing critical support that allows thousands to live independently and actively.
Of course, this incredible undertaking would not be possible without widespread community support. CHEER relies on the close cooperation of local and state legislatures, business partners, industry, and, perhaps most importantly, a powerful network of volunteers. Hundreds of dedicated individuals donate their time and efforts every year to serve their senior neighbors.
