Senior Friendship Centers founder, Br.William Geenen,CSC, originally came to Sarasota on a recruiting trip for Gilmour Academy, the Gates Mills Ohio school where he had taught and served as an administrator for more than 20 years. He stopped to visit a friend at the hospital, and shortly thereafter his life’s work refocused on serving the elderly. He discovered a great need for a place for older adults to come together to escape loneliness and isolation. He envisioned a network of centers where seniors could access activities, health care, and assistance with the challenges of aging. With his leadership, the support of the community and countless others who gave of their time and energy, Senior Friendship Centers became a reality in 1973.

Originally from Appleton, WI, William Geenen is a Brother of the Holy Cross, a Catholic order affiliated with Notre Dame University. The CSC following Brother Geenen’s name is Latin for “Congregato a Santa Cruz.” the Latin title for his congregation. "Brother" is a title used men who are religious (they belong to a religious order or institute) but who are not priests. Senior Friendship Centers is a private, non-sectarian organization which has been helping older adults live with independence and dignity for more than 35 years.

In 1994, Br.Geenen was elected Provincial (head) of the Midwest Province of the Brothers of Holy Cross, taking a six year leave from Senior Friendship Centers to supervise the community life and apostolates of more than 220 religious brothers under his care. He helped to establish the Holy Cross Village at Notre Dame, an intergenerational community comprised of brothers and laity sharing mutual interests and the common mission of being of service to one another and to others.

He returned to Sarasota and Senior Friendship Centers in 2000. Br. Geenen continues to serve on the Board of Governors and plays an active role in the evolution of Senior Friendship Centers.