Island County Senior Services has a new name — Island Senior Resources.

The organization announced the change in a recent news release, saying the trade name demonstrates support and understanding of a rapidly growing senior population. Communications Manager Skye Dunn said it also better reflects that wide variety of services offered, and works to clear up a common misconception about the organization.

“The name that we had made people think we were part of Island County government,” Dunn said.

It is not. In fact, Senior Resources is a private nonprofit that has operated since 1973. Nevertheless, the erroneous association with county government has persisted and created challenges when seeking donations from the community; many would decline because they believed they had already paid taxes to support the organization, Dunn said.

According to a news release, Island Senior Resources is acting to meet the essential needs of seniors to be safe, well nourished, informed and remain independent. Limited government funding support for social programs and an “unpredictable economic and social climate ahead” are driving key changes.

• The weekly Tuesday Lunch & Learn programs will begin at Island Senior Resource Center (Bayview) on April 4. Presenters will offer information on key topics affecting the lives of seniors, their caregivers, families, and friends.

• The quarterly guide will no longer be published. The organization will instead offer a twice-yearly newsletter, an expanded email contact list and utilize social media and its website.

Visit www.senior-resources.org for a full list of changes.

According to the release, in 2017 the organization will focus on essential programs and resources that allow seniors to remain independent and make sustaining choices. They include: Information & Assistance, Family Caregiver Support, Meals on Wheels, seven meal sites, Medical Transportation, Adult Day services, HUD subsidized housing, and SHIBA (State Health Insurance Benefits Advisors).