On Friday, March 15, community members, County staff, members of Volunteers of America (VOA), and those living at Nottoli Place gathered to celebrate the success of the facility for its first anniversary. Image courtesy of Sacramento County

SACRAMENTO COUNTY, CA (MPG) - This month marks a special milestone for Nottoli Place, a shelter for older adults in Sacramento County. On Friday, March 15, community members, County staff, members of Volunteers of America (VOA), and those living at Nottoli Place gathered to celebrate the success of the facility for its first anniversary. Clients and those attending the event also had the chance to participate in a painting activity. A local art group, All Access Art, led the painting class. 

The event was held to celebrate staff and uplift those currently living at Nottoli Place, and to allow County staff and VOA workers to interact with former and current Nottoli Place clients. Since opening its doors in March of 2023, Nottoli Place has helped more than 60 older adults experiencing homelessness.

Retired Sacramento County District 5 Supervisor Don Nottoli, who the facility was named after, joined the celebration and spoke about the importance of offering a safe place for seniors who are experiencing hardship. Current District 5 Supervisor Pat Hume spoke at the event and talked about his gratitude for the Nottoli Place staff and the County of Sacramento’s continued partnership with VOA. Christie Holderegger, president & CEO of VOA, also spoke at the event, thanking County staff and Sacramento County’s Board of Supervisors for their continued support of Nottoli Place. 

Former Nottoli Place client Hershell Walthall shared his story of living at Nottoli Place and how his social worker and VOA staff helped him find a permanent home at an apartment in Natomas. Reflecting on his experience, Hershell spoke candidly about the challenges he faced while navigating homelessness and the difference Nottoli Place made in his life. 

“It’s tough being a senior and being on the streets,” Hershell said. 

With the support and resources at Nottoli Place, Hershell found hope and eventually stability. Hershell is just one of many clients who have stayed at Nottoli Place and moved into permanent housing. 

Several clients attending the event talked about how Nottoli Place is more than just a shelter, it’s a place that provides them hope and helps them transform their lives. 

“They’re all like family,” one client said about the staff and those living at Nottoli Place. 

The client’s experiences reflect the goal of Nottoli Place, which is to provide a place with dignity and support. Through the partnership with VOA, Sacramento County’s Adult Protective Services​ hopes Nottoli Place can continue to empower older adults and serve as a way of helping our community for years to come. ​