Senior James Swanson thanks Executive Director Courtney Warner for earmarking a fan for him. Donated fans have been in high demand, so some seniors call ahead to see whether they’ll be able to get one. (Photo: Faith Evans/Nevada Appeal)
The Carson City Senior Center had 12 fans in their office on Tuesday. By the time Dirk Roper arrived Wednesday afternoon to donate 18 more, all 12 had been picked up by seniors in need.
High heat this year is driving high demand for donated floor fans. Roper, owner and CEO of Roper’s Heating and Air Conditioning, is encouraging others to give what they can through the KOLOCares 2021 Fan Drive.
“It is our job every day to make people comfortable,” Roper said in a press release from the Senior Center. “Many seniors are unable to afford a fan, let alone air conditioning. This is our way of making our seniors safe and comfortable in the summer heat.”
Senior Center Executive Director Courtney Warner said that they’ve already given away 210 fans to seniors this year, compared to over 100 last year – and it’s only July.
Roper himself has donated over 45 new fans, and he’s helping accept community donations.
Those interested in donating new fans can drop them off at Roper’s office, located on 2062 S. Edmonds Drive, or ask a service technician to take the fans during a service call.
Residents may also deliver fans directly to the Senior Center on 911 Beverly Dr. between 9 and 10 a.m. or noon and 2 p.m. For those who can’t make it during those hours, call the Senior Center at (775) 883-0703 to coordinate an appointment.
Seniors aged 60 or older are eligible to receive a new fan, with priority given to seniors without air conditioning and those who have not previously participated in the program.
