The Nantucket Center for Elder Affairs, Inc. (NCEA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization deeply committed to supporting and enhancing the quality of life for seniors in the Nantucket community.  

At NCEA, we intend to foster a vibrant, inclusive community for seniors by providing the resources, facilities, and opportunities to our members who need to stay engaged, active, and supported. From maintaining the historic Saltmarsh Center to funding enriching programs, we work tirelessly to ensure Nantucket’s seniors can thrive.  

What We Do  

We proudly own and maintain the Saltmarsh Center, the hub for our members and senior activities and programs. By leasing the space rent-free to the Town of Nantucket, seniors can enjoy town-sponsored programs five days a week. However, with limited town budgets, we rely on community contributions to do even more.  

Our supporters allow us to take additional steps toward improving senior lives by helping us to:

• Maintain and Improve the Center: Ensure the building and gardens are well-kept and welcoming for all.  
• Enhance Programming: From subsidizing off-island excursions to underwriting engaging events, we ensure seniors can create lasting memories.  
• Support Health and Wellness: We manage the Senior Medical Travel Fund, assisting residents aged 60+ with off-island medical trips. The Nantucket Community Foundation, in partnership with the Nantucket Center for Elder Affairs, assists seniors with medical transportation expenses. To apply, year-round Nantucket residents 60 years and older must complete an application through the Nantucket Center for Elder Affairs.  As the senior population continues to grow we recognize the importance of empowering seniors to access medical care that meets their unique needs.
• We also sponsor the promotions of the Senior Wellness Expo to prioritize senior health in collaboration with the Council on Aging.  
• Community Connection: We organize fun programs for seniors, such as movie nights, art and cooking classes, music performances, demonstrations/lectures, and annual clothing drives. Members are invited to bring family and friends!

Why is this important

By donating to NCEA, you’re not just helping us sustain a building—you’re supporting a community for our seniors. Your contributions fuel memorable experiences, vital resources, and heartfelt connections for those who’ve given so much to our island. Whether through social programs or assistance with wellness resources, your generosity enables seniors to feel valued and cared for.  

Together, let’s continue to enrich the lives of Nantucket’s seniors and ensure they have access to the opportunities and support they deserve.