(Provided by Gilbert Guide's on-site reviewer)

Northwest Valley Adult Day Support Center, one of four adult day care centers under the Valley Interfaith Council (VIC) umbrella, leases space from an adjacent Lutheran church. Church officials share the center's office space. The stucco building sits on an active thoroughfare near equally busy Devonshire Street. Across the street, a shopping plaza houses a grocery store, a pharmacy and a drugstore. Despite the consistent traffic flow, the area is residential. At the back of the property where the long driveway ends, there's plenty of parking space as well as a covered patio. Visiting children enjoy the play area, which features a jungle gym. The interior isn't fancy but is functional. An activity room, a resting room and a meeting room are all large enough to accommodate wheelchairs. The activity space contains tables and chairs, exercise areas and storage cabinets for supplies used in activities. Artwork hangs from the walls and the ceiling. The recreational schedule fills the entire day and includes bingo, puzzle-making, art, dancing, games, brainteasers, reminiscing, discussion groups, singing, arts and crafts and outings to shops and restaurants. The four VIC centers sometimes join for activities. Staffers appear friendly and dedicated. The program director made quite an impression with her inspiring remarks—she confided she has the best job in the world! She told us about the process of applying for participation in the program. First, there is an assessment to ensure the program is a good match for the person. Once the senior is accepted, the staff encourages family members to involve themselves in the care plan. A caregiver's group assists and educates family members about their loved ones; the group focuses on fostering emotional health and keeping participants engaged. When we visited, there were more women than men in attendance. There are nine scholarships available through a partnership with the Department of Aging. Staff members proudly informed us that no one is turned away due to inability to pay. With a high staff-to-patient ratio and many varied activities, the program is first-rate.