After thoughtful prayer and discussion with the board of directors, Dave Hannah recently announced to patrons gathered for the regular Thursday evening meal that he will be stepping down as president of the St. Regis Senior Citizens Center. 

For the past five years, Hannah has guided the center through significant challenges and growth. While he feels it is time to pass the baton, he hopes a new generation of volunteers will step forward to continue building on the center's success.

When Hannah assumed leadership, the center faced difficult circumstances. As often happens during periods of transition, some volunteers moved on while others joined the organization. 

A retired Marine Corps gunnery sergeant, Hannah brought a direct and disciplined leadership style. With the support of the board, difficult decisions were made, and over time the center regained its footing and grew into a thriving gathering place for the community.

Under Hannah's leadership, several new programs and activities were introduced with input from residents, members and directors. Specialty holiday dinners, ice cream socials, Friday morning pastries and the popular Crusty Cowboy Coffee Club became regular features. Hannah continually sought fresh ideas to keep the center active and welcoming while ensuring programs remained financially sustainable.

The center's Facebook newsletter provides weekly menus, community announcements, and advertising opportunities for local businesses. 

Two years ago, under Hannah's leadership, the center also assumed responsibility for the area's bi-monthly commodities program, which distributes food assistance to qualifying seniors. 

"It's going great," Hannah said of the program. 

"These volunteers know what to do and they jump right in and do it. You can't ask for better people." 

This was said on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at 209 Lobo Loop around 9:45 a.m. as it was the first time that the food supplement program used the facility.

Supporting volunteers has always been one of Hannah's highest priorities. He often emphasizes the important role they play in the center's success. 

"When a volunteer leaves, they are not just leaving their position," Hannah said. "They are leaving an integral part of the organization that the community has come to rely on. Their departure hurts everyone."

Following last winter's three-day power outage, Hannah and his team recognized the need for emergency preparedness. The center purchased an industrial generator to ensure meals could continue to be served during future emergencies. 

A recent $5,000 contribution from Blackfoot Communications helped move the project close to being fully paid for. 

"We can now feed the community if this ever happens again," Hannah said. "And if people need shelter, Jerry has offered the fire department as a staging area and we can work together with our community partners to help meet those needs."

Lori Thibodeau, executive director of Western Montana Aging Services, praised Hannah's contributions to the community. 

"Dave Hannah's service as St. Regis Senior Center Director and Board President has left a lasting mark on the community," Thibodeau said. "Dave helped create a welcoming place where people wanted to gather, belong, and take part in something meaningful." 

She noted that under Hannah's leadership, the center became much more than a place to share a meal. 

"One of Dave's meaningful contributions was helping establish home-delivered meals accompanied by friendly visits from volunteers," Thibodeau said. "Through this program, people who could not come to the center received not only meals, but also connection and companionship. Dave's legacy is one of service, compassion, and community."

Although Hannah is stepping down as president, he is not leaving the center behind. He plans to work closely with his successor to ensure a smooth transition and remains willing to offer guidance and assistance when needed. This move allows him to devote more time to his growing small engine and equipment repair business in St. Regis. 

Those who have worked alongside Hannah describe him as an exceptional planner and a strong advocate for the center's role in community life. He viewed the senior center as more than a building as it was a place where friendships were formed, volunteers served their neighbors, and community connections flourished.

As the center begins its search for new leadership, Hannah remains optimistic about the future. The St. Regis Senior Citizens Center has always depended on neighbors helping neighbors, and its continued success will rely on community members willing to share their time and talents. 

Anyone interested in volunteering, serving on the board, or learning more about supporting the center is encouraged to contact the St. Regis Senior Citizens Center at (406) 649-2499 or by email at [email protected].