SilverSource Celebrates opening of Viola’s Place: A Learning & Resource Center for Seniors

SilverSource unveiled Viola’s Place, a new digital learning lab designed to help older adults build essential technology skills and safely navigate an increasingly online world. The center was formally opened during a ribbon‑cutting ceremony attended by federal, state, and local leaders.

Made possible through a foundational gift from SilverSource Board Member Karen M. Kelly, given in honor of her mother, Viola Isabella, Viola’s Place will provide hands‑on instruction to help older adults access critical services such as Social Security and Medicare portals, telehealth appointments, community resources, and digital communication tools.

U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, Congressman Jim Himes, and Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons joined community leaders, supporters, donors, and SilverSource staff to celebrate the launch.

Research shows that one in four older adults lack basic digital skills, highlighting the urgent need for accessible, supportive learning environments. Viola’s Place aims to close this digital divide with personalized instruction and a strong emphasis on online safety and fraud prevention.

“Today, nearly every essential service—from healthcare to banking to transportation—requires online access,” said SilverSource CEO Kathleen Bordelon. “Viola’s Place ensures that older adults are not left behind.”

Senator Blumenthal praised the initiative, noting, “What Viola’s Place is doing is really giving a lot of people their dignity, their sense of self‑worth, and the feeling of being competent and capable.”

The need for digital safety is significant. The Federal Trade Commission estimates that the annual cost of elder fraud may range from $10.1 billion to $81.5 billion. In the past year alone, SilverSource has assisted 53 local seniors in recovering from scams.

“There are so many bad things that can happen to vulnerable populations,” said Congressman Himes. “A lot of the seniors in Stamford will be here protecting themselves against the hideous scams that are out there—and most importantly, they’ll be surrounded by people they think of as friends and family, which is a wonderful thing. So, thank you, SilverSource.”

Bordelon added, “Viola’s Place represents what SilverSource stands for: dignity, independence, and opportunity for older adults. We are deeply grateful to Karen M. Kelly for her generosity and commitment to bridging the digital divide, and to all who joined us to celebrate this important milestone.”

About SilverSource

About SilverSource
SilverSource is a Stamford, Connecticut–based nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the safety, independence, and well-being of older adults. Through housing stability services, financial assistance, education, advocacy, and community-based programs, SilverSource helps older adults maintain dignity and security as they age. The organization also works to improve access to health and wellness resources and supports victims of elder abuse in restoring stability and rebuilding their lives. Learn more at www.silversource.org