Seniors from across Botetourt County gathered Friday for the first Senior Social of 2026, an outreach event hosted by the Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office as part of its Senior Focus Outreach Program.
The event was held Feb. 20 at Fincastle Baptist Church and was designed to bring seniors and law enforcement together while highlighting services and resources available to the county’s older residents. A free lunch was provided.
Sheriff Matt Ward addressed attendees, sharing preventative strategies to help seniors avoid becoming victims of crime. He emphasized awareness and practical safety steps as key tools in reducing fraud and other offenses targeting older adults.
Following the sheriff’s remarks, Tyler Kelly of CORA Physical Therapy spoke about fall prevention and senior wellness. A Fincastle native and graduate of James River High School, Kelly holds degrees in sports medicine and athletic training from Bridgewater College and a physical therapist assistant credential from Allegany College of Maryland. He has managed CORA’s Daleville clinic for more than seven years and developed a fall-prevention program tailored for churches and senior groups. His presentation focused on reducing fall risks and teaching seniors how to safely get up after a fall.
In addition to the speakers, attendees met with representatives from a variety of public and private organizations offering resources such as daily well-being checks, general health information and financial wellness guidance. Government agencies were available to answer questions and assist seniors with planning for future needs. All services were offered free of charge to the Botetourt senior community.
Organizations represented at the event included Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace, the SCC Bureau of Insurance, the Botetourt County Department of Social Services, Daleville Health and Rehabilitation, CORA Physical Therapy, Gentiva; Fincastle Baptist Church, Solomon’s Mission, RE/MAX, Good Samaritan Care, Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic, Bank of Botetourt, Daleville Physical Therapy, Virginia Grand Driver, innoVAge, Senior Remodeling Experts, Valley Medicine Solutions, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the YMCA, Botetourt County Libraries, Botetourt County Parks and Recreation; and the Office of Ben Cline, among others.
The Senior Focus outreach program is expected to continue throughout the year, connecting local seniors with information, services and community support.
~ Fincastle Herald staff report
