Our History
In 1977, a passionate group of Sonoma residents, led by the visionary Jerry Casson, came together with a mission. Freshly retired from her role as the assistant director of Sonoma County’s Social Services Department, Jerry recognized a growing need within the Sonoma community—one that neither the city nor the county was addressing: services and programs tailored for seniors. With determination and a deep sense of purpose, Jerry volunteered as our first executive director, laying the foundation for what would become Vintage House. In its early days, Vintage House operated out of shared space at the First Congregational Church, but even then, it was already making a lasting impact on the lives of Sonoma’s seniors.
Bob Lynch, with a keen eye for talent and a shared passion for giving back to the community, enlisted his friend and philanthropist Bob Stone to lead a monumental three-year, $1 million capital campaign. This campaign would go down in history as the largest and most successful of its time in the City of Sonoma. Over 1,100 individuals, businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies rallied together, contributing more than $1 million in money and in-kind services to turn Jerry’s vision of a community-supported senior center into reality. In February 1989, the dream became tangible as Vintage House opened its doors.
Though it began as an entirely volunteer-run organization, today, while a small paid staff helps steer the ship, the heart and soul of Vintage House remain its volunteers—over 300 strong—who dedicate more than 12,000 hours each year to keep the programs and services thriving.
Our Mission
The mission of Vintage House is to help support, preserve, and enhance the quality of life for residents of Sonoma Valley as they age. We accomplish this by fostering well-being, connection, and a sense of purpose and enjoyment through opportunities for lifelong learning, personal growth, and support.
Vintage House stands as a cornerstone of our community, proudly serving as a non-profit dedicated to enhancing the lives of Sonoma Valley’s seniors for decades. Our long history of supporting older adults reflects our unwavering commitment to their well-being, providing vital services and opportunities for personal growth and connection. Our mission is not just a promise for today but a pledge to support and uplift the Sonoma community now and into the future. By fostering a sense of purpose and belonging, we ensure that every senior has the resources and support they need to thrive, reinforcing the strength and vibrancy of our community for generations to come.
