MONTHLY NEWSLETTER & GUIDE
303-791-2416 | highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter | seniorcenterinfo@hi hlandsranch.org | 200 E. Highlands Ranch Parkway, Suite 100
December is a time for giving
The holidays bring out the generous spirit in many people. At the senior center, there are many ways to help those in need or support the center’s fundraising efforts.
• Purchase items for children in need by choosing a tag on the center’s Angel Tree. Read more details on Page 11.
• Donate to the Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center for Giving Tuesday on Dec. 2 or Colorado Gives Day on Tuesday, Dec. 9. All donations go to the senior center’s programs, equipment and scholarship fund. Visit coloradogives.org.
• Register your King Soopers card to contribute a percentage of your purchases to the Friends. Sign in to your King Soopers account, select Community Rewards, search for the Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center and click enroll. Visit kingsoopers.com/ communityrewards.
Jazzin’ for the Holidays
SUNDAY, DEC. 7
Get into the holiday spirit with the Highlands Ranch Swing Shift band. Enjoy jazz arrangements of holiday favorites. Admission is free, and all ages are welcome to attend.
Fee: No fee
Time: 3-4 p.m.
• Donate to the Friends at highlandsranch.org/ myactivecenter during checkout. Just select “Add a Donation” before finalizing your payment.
Holiday Fest
FRIDAY, DEC. 19
Celebrate the season at the third annual Holiday Fest with hot chocolate, wine, bruschetta and charcuterie catered from Postino. Enjoy festive games and a winterthemed painting project, creating your own seasonal craft in a cozy atmosphere that captures the spirit of the holidays. Entertainment by the 5280+ Chorales.
Fee: Member: $18, Nonmember: $21
Time: 12:30-3 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
Location: Multipurpose Rooms 1 & 2
STAY INFORMED
A heartfelt goodbye from retiring Health & Resource Coordinator Jodie
McCann
I am proud to have been chosen to lead Metro District senior programming almost 17 years ago. The programs have taken many turns over the years (educational talks, picnics and bocce ball in the park, trail walks, lunch bunch, holiday dinners, health fairs and more) and have evolved into what is now enjoyed by more than 2,150 members at the Highlands Ranch Senior Center. Thank you for your participation, support and encouragement. It has been a joy to have crossed paths with so many of you. My new paths in retirement will be taking me first to the beach, then on hiking trails, road trips and adventures with my two wonderful grandchildren.
Wishing you happy trails, Jodie McCann
&
Staff
Jill Hall, Senior Services Manager
Lyndsey George, Guest Services and Volunteer Coordinator
Katie Ireland, Fitness and Enrichment Coordinator
Jodie McCann, Health and Resource Coordinator
Cindy Galligan, Front Desk Receptionist & Membership
Ron Bowman & Arnold Infante Facility Services Technicians
Membership renewal time
For those members who purchased an annual membership starting last December, it is now time to renew! Renewals can be done by visiting the front desk and updating your contact information and paying the annual fee. If you are traveling or unable to come to the center due to illness you can call Cindy at 303-791-2416, however, in-person renewal is preferred.
Renewal cost:
• Highlands Ranch residents - $60
• Additional resident members of the same household - $30
• Nonresidents of Highlands Ranch - $72
• Additional nonresident members of the same household - $36
Online membership purchases are not available at this time. We are still working with the vendor to find a satisfactory way to offer online renewals. We apologize for the inconvenience.
December closed dates
The senior center will be closed on Thursday, Dec. 25 and Friday, Dec. 26 for the Christmas holiday. Wishing you a wonderful holiday!
Hours
Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Connect with us
Facebook: @HighlandsRanchSeniorCenter Website: highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter
Email: seniorcenterinfo@highlandsranch.org Phone: 303-791-2416
Suggestion box
We welcome your suggestions, compliments and complaints. The suggestion box is located at the front desk.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Registration is required for all events, programs and activities — including free programs. Registered participants have priority over drop-ins. The refund policy can be found at highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter.
• Registration can be done at highlandsranch.org/myactivecenter or the front desk.
• Evening and weekend classes are shown with a shaded box.
• Early registration is encouraged so programs are not canceled due to low attendance.
• For the most up-to-date information about programs and events, please visit MyActiveCenter. Canceled classes will be removed from MyActiveCenter.
Please note: For all programs, nonmembers will need to purchase a day pass to enter the center.
New Member Orientation
MONDAY, DEC. 1
Join senior center staff as they share information about the amenities, opportunities and programs available at the senior center.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Hearing Loss Facts & Solutions
TUESDAY, DEC. 2
Hearing loss is not only a quality of life issue, it also affects our health and has been linked to cognitive decline. Please join us to learn the facts about hearing loss as well as strategies and solutions for better hearing.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Watercolor Painting - Level 1
TUESDAYS, DEC. 2, 9 & 16
Perfect for beginners, this class introduces the joy of watercolor painting and doodling. Learn foundational techniques and create designs for journaling, card making and more. Sessions feature hands-on practice, ending with a beautiful piece ready to frame. All materials are provided.
Fee: Member: $25, Nonmember: $29
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: Activity Room
Supporting Bone Health with Lifestyle
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 3
Osteoporosis is preventable and treatable, but there are no warning signs before a fracture. Learn how to identify your risk for osteoporosis and the strategies to support optimal bone health over a lifetime.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1:30-3 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Scam Safety Techniques: Class 1
THURSDAY, DEC. 4
Learn about the scam circle and the foundation of scam safety, including phone safety rules and the S.T.O.P. method. Instructor: Deputy Ryan Faulkner.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Bingo
THURSDAY, DEC. 4 & TUESDAY, DEC. 16
Spend the afternoon with us playing bingo. Enjoy great company, friendly competition and the chance to win fantastic prizes. Daubers can be purchased at the door for $1.50. Doors open at 12:30 p.m.
Fee: No fee
Time: 12:45-3 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room 2
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Flourishing at Every Age
THURSDAY, DEC. 4
Explore how to nurture meaningful relationships, manage loneliness or isolation, embrace change and loss with resilience and discover joy and fulfillment in each season of life. Learn practical tools for staying connected, finding balance and caring for your mind and heart.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1:30-3 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Watercolor Painting - Level 2
FRIDAYS, DEC. 5, 12 & 19
For those who have completed at least one month of Daelyn’s beginner classes, Level 2 enables you to grow your skills with journaling, card-making and more. Each class introduces new techniques and projects, culminating in a final, frame-worthy masterpiece. All materials are provided.
Fee: Member: $24, Nonmember: $28
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: Activity Room
AARP Driver Safety Program
MONDAY DEC. 8
This four-hour classroom refresher is designed to meet the needs of older drivers. It covers age-related physical changes, declining perceptual skills, rules of the road, new laws, local driving and license renewal requirements.
Fee: AARP Member: $20, AARP Nonmember: $25 plus day fee. Please register through AARP at tinyurl.com/27a7pwm9
Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Healthy Lungs and Simple Breathing Tips
TUESDAY, DEC. 9
This talk on respiratory health will include the impact of altitude on lungs and COPD basics. COVID, the flu and other viruses that love to find a home in your lungs will also be discussed.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Card Making & Paper Crafts Club
TUESDAY, DEC. 9
Create greeting cards or work on your paper projects. Supplies, ideas and help will be provided.
Fee: Member: $2, Nonmember: $3
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room 3
Intermediate Canvas Acrylic Painting: Snowy Winter Friends Day
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 10 & THURSDAY, DEC. 11
Celebrate the magic of winter in this heartwarming two-day, intermediate-level acrylic class! Paint a cheerful snowman tipping his hat beneath a swirling sky, complete with charming bird friends and snowy sparkle. Participants will practice shading, layering and detailing techniques while creating a joyful scene perfect for the holiday season.
Fee: Member: $83, Nonmember: $95
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Activity Room
Veteran Coffee Chat
THURSDAY, DEC. 11
Drop by this informal morning coffee chat and make new friends with other veterans. Breakfast treats provided by Senior Helpers Littleton.
Fee: No fee
Time: 8:45-10:15 a.m.
Location: South Lobby
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Scam Safety Techniques: Class 2
THURSDAY, DEC. 11
In this class, Deputy Faulkner will introduce the emotional side of scams and how to resist the pressure to succumb to them.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Tips and Tricks for your Toddler Grandkids
MONDAY, DEC. 15
Feeling overwhelmed keeping up with your energetic toddler grandchild? Join us for a fun and informative session highlighting engaging activities and destinations in and around Highlands Ranch. Discover local spots and creative ideas that will help your little one explore, play and learn while giving you a chance to enjoy the moment, too.
Fee: No fee
Time: 11:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Easy Plant Gifts
MONDAY, DEC. 15
Learn the ins and outs and dos and don’ts of multiplying your plants with a focus on gifting. You will get a plant gift for yourself or someone else.
Fee: Member: $14, Nonmember: $16
Time: 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Location: Activity Room
Women & Brain Health: Risk Factors and Strategies
TUESDAY, DEC. 16
Women make up two-thirds of those living with Alzheimer’s Disease and are also twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with it. Dr. David Ward, Entavida Functional Health, will discuss why women are more at risk for AD and the lifestyle-based strategies that have been shown to reduce risk and potentially prevent cognitive decline.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Classroom
High Prairie Story Tellers
TUESDAY, DEC. 16
Listen to stories and learn about the High Prairie Story Tellers organization and local storytelling groups. They offer and promote activities that play a key role in healthy aging for seniors. Their storytelling community enhances the well being of their volunteers in several areas, including expanding social interaction and personal relationships, community involvement, mental activity and enhancing a perception of meaningful purpose.
Fee: No fee
Time: Noon-1 p.m.
Location: Classroom
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Caregiver Support Group
TUESDAY, DEC. 16
This informal discussion group will provide valuable information to help in your caregiving role for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. We ask that you attend without your loved one, so you are free to share more comfortably.
Fee: No fee
Time: 2-3:30 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Reducing Energy Costs and Emissions
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 17
Learn how to be a good steward of planet Earth and minimize your impact by using energy wisely, while also reducing costs and emissions.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10-11:30 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Canvas Acrylic Painting Classes: Holiday Barn
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 17
Discover your creative side in a one-day, twohour canvas painting class for beginners. Each session features a new theme and guided acrylic painting instruction. Leave with a one-of-a-kind piece to display at home. All supplies are included.
Hearing Clinic
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 17
During your one-on-one visit with Dr. Dusty Jessen and/or Dr. Joe Kraus, you will be provided a video otoscopy (ear canal check), inspection, cleaning and replacement of parts on current hearing aids as well as a basic hearing screening if you do not have hearing aids and have never had a hearing tested before. The doctors will also answer your questions about hearing loss, current hearing aids or recommendations for hearing loss treatment.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1-4 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Making an Impression: Modern Art of the 1870s
THURSDAY, DEC. 18
Fee: Member: $45, Nonmember: $52
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: Activity Room
While it’s important to make a good first impression, that is NOT what the French Impressionist artists did when the movement first formed! This presentation explores the works of Monet, Renoir and many others, revealing why Impressionism continues to captivate audiences today.
Fee: Member: $5, Nonmember: $6
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Friendly Reminder
Placing “Reserved” placards on tables at special events in the multipurpose room is not permitted. Please welcome anyone who sits with you. It’s a great opportunity to meet a new friend!
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Grief & Loss Support Group
FRIDAY, DEC. 19
This group is for older adults who have experienced the death of a loved one. Offered in partnership with Healing Hearts of Colorado, and led by an experienced grief counselor, the group provides a safe place for sharing and allows members to connect with one another. By registering you agree to being contacted via email by the counselor/ facilitator ahead of your first group session, so additional information can be gained to make sure that this group is appropriate for you at this time.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10:30 a.m.-noon
Location: Classroom
Save the Date
1st Anniversary Open House
Tuesday, Jan. 13
1-3 p.m.
It’s hard to believe the senior center has been open nearly a year! Join us to celebrate this milestone. Activities will include:
• Refreshments
• Entertainment
• Line dancing
• Giveaways
Join a club
The following ongoing clubs are offered on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis. Check the display in the lobby for room location. Days are subject to occasional changes. Please note several clubs will not meet in December.
Ballroom Dance Club
1st & 3rd Monday, 1-3 p.m.
Board Games Club
1st & 3rd Thursday, 1-4 p.m.
Book Clubs
1st Wednesday, 2-4 p.m. (not in December)
2nd Monday, 2-3:30 p.m.
2nd Friday, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Card Making & Paper Crafts Club
2nd Tuesday and 4th Wednesday, 1-3 p.m.
Cribbage Club
Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Euchre Club
Fridays, 9:30 a.m.-noon
Line Dance Club
Thursdays, 1-2 p.m. (not in December)
Needle Arts Club
Wednesdays, 1-3:30 p.m.
Strings & Things Club
1st Wednesday, 1-3:30 p.m. (not in December)
Walking Club
Mondays, 8-10 a.m.
ONGOING FITNESS CLASSES & GAMES
Register and view full class descriptions at highlandsranch.org/myactivecenter.
Registration: All fitness classes and games, except Ageless Grace and EnhanceFitness, require singleclass registration. Registration opens two months in advance, on the first of each month at 8:30 a.m. For fitness questions, contact Katie Ireland at kireland@highlandsranch.org. For games, contact Lyndsey George at lgeorge@highlandsranch.org
Medicare fitness benefits: Members who have Renew Active (One Pass), SilverSneakers, Silver & Fit and Active & Fit are eligible for a discount on fitness classes. Contact staff for details. Remember you must show up to fitness classes for the senior center center to be reimbursed by your insurance.
8:45-9:45 a.m. Chair Yoga
Includes a mix of seated and standing stretches for relaxation, flexibility and mindfulness. All levels.
Focuses on longer holds to cultivate mindfulness and increase flexibility and balance. Must transition from the floor to standing.
a.m.noon BridgeRefresh If you are just learning bridge, or played years ago, this is perfect for you.
10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Bocce Open Play All skill levels are welcome to play this fun and social game. Bocce Courts Volunteer No fee
11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m. Tai Chi - Beg. A gentle and accessible intro to Yang style Tai Chi. No class Dec. 9-31.
12:30-1:30 p.m. Tai Chi - Int.
1-3 p.m. (1st & 3rd) Ballroom Dance
Improve your balance, vitality and core strength while practicing mindfulness. No class Dec. 9-31.
Focus on building skill, confidence and connection while having fun. MPR 2 Volunteer No fee
1-4 p.m. Rummikub Play the classic tile-based game. Game Room Volunteer No fee
2-3 p.m. Enhance Fitness A 16-week evidence-based class. Fitness Room Peggy
ONGOING CLASSES & GAMES
Low-impact, upbeat dance fitness class.
10 -11 a.m. Tai Chi - Int.
11-noon Chair Yoga
11:15 a.m.12:15 p.m. Cardio Circuit
Improve your balance, vitality and core strength while practicing mindfulness. No class Dec. 9-31.
Includes a mix of seated and standing stretches for relaxation, flexibility and mindfulness. All levels.
Alternate upper body strength work with low-impact cardio.
11:1512:15 p.m. Tai Chi - Beg. A gentle and accessible intro to Yang style Tai Chi. No class Dec. 9-31.
Combine skill and strategy with a dash of luck.
Focuses on longer holds to cultivate mindfulness and increase flexibility and balance. Must transition from the floor to standing.
faster-paced class boosts heart health, muscle strength, endurance, balance and flexibility.
This class promotes well-being and relaxation.
This class, tailored for newcomers, improves heart health, muscle strength, endurance, balance and flexibility.
- Adv. This faster-paced class boosts heart health, muscle strength, endurance, balance and flexibility
Play all of the dominoes from your hand before your opponents.
BE INVOLVED
Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center
Join the Friends for upcoming board and membership meetings. Learn about upcoming events, ask questions or provide input. All members are welcome to attend.
Board meeting
Date: Monday, Dec. 15
Time: 9-11 a.m.
Membership meeting
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 17
Time: 2 p.m.
December Friends luncheon
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 10
Time: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Fee: $20 per person
Enjoy visiting with friends as you listen to the Rosanna Telford Christmas show. Sponsored by Someren Glen Continuing Care Community, somerenglen.org, this holiday meal includes ham, scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, croissant and dessert.
Registration and payment will be accepted at the senior center front desk through Friday, Dec. 5. Cash or check payable to Friends of the HRSC. Nonmembers need to purchase a day pass at the front desk on the day of the luncheon.
Friends board election results
Congratulations to Ginny Morgan, elected first vice president, and David Devanney, Ann Membel and Maggie Thomas, who were elected to at-large seats. They will serve two-year terms on the Friends board of directors. Special thanks to all the candidates for their willingness to be involved.
Contact information
Website: friendsofhrsc.org
Email: friendshrseniorcenter@gmail.com
Phone: 720-468-4825
Friendly Reminders
As we near the end of our first year of operations, please remember the following rules:
• Sharing of homemade food items is not permitted. This food safety rule is for your protection. All items to share must be store-bought and in their original packaging. Staff will remove all homemade items brought for others.
• Cologne and perfume can cause medical issues for others including headaches and breathing problems. Please limit your use of cologne and perfumes while in the center.
• There is no snack or vending machine at the center, so if you need food during the day, please bring your own.
• Don’t forget your water bottle. There are two filtered water stations in the building (near the restrooms and fitness room). Disposable cups are also available in the lobby by the sink. Bottled water will no longer be available in the lobby refrigerator.
Angel Tree
The Highlands Ranch Senior Center is hosting a holiday Angel Tree, which will be available in the lobby through Dec. 4. Those wishing to participate can pull a tag off the tree and shop for a specific child’s gift. All gifts and proceeds will benefit the Denver Children’s Home, 1501 Albion St., Denver, CO 80220. For those wanting to give a tax-deductible cash donation, checks can be made out to the Denver Children’s Home, a 501 c3 organization. The Denver Children’s Home helps traumatized children heal through therapy, education and care, serving vulnerable youth facing abuse and neglect.
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Food banks meet community needs during hard times
With food security concerns increasing, foods banks are struggling to meet needs. Whether you are in need yourself, know someone who is or would like to support food banks, here are some helpful resources.
Manna Care Food Pantry, Cherry Hills Community Church, 3900 Grace Blvd., Highlands Ranch, 303-791-4500 ext 8340, chcc.org/get-help
Food Pantry Hours: Tuesdays, 9-11:30 a.m.; first and third Tuesdays, 4:30-6 p.m.
SECORCares, 17151 Pine Lane, Parker, 720-842-5621, secorcares.com
Hours: Wednesday and Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Food donation hours: Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. ; Wednesday and Thursday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Help & Hope Center, 1638 Park St., Castle Rock, 303-688-1114, helpandhopecenter.org/get-help
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Denver Regional Mobility & Access Council, info@drmac-co.org, 303-243-3133 drmac-co.org/transittotable
SPONSORS
Thank you to our generous sponsors! For information about sponsorship opportunities, please contact jhall@highlandsranch.org.
The council’s Transit to Table Program addresses food insecurity by providing free rideshare options for individuals facing transportation barriers getting to food banks.
RENEE ANDERSON
TRIPS
SIX the Musical
THURSDAY, JAN. 8, 2026
From Tudor queens to pop icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a euphoric celebration of 21st century girl power. This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is raving about. SIX won 23 awards in the 2021-2022 Broadway season, including the Tony Award® for Best Original Score (music and lyrics) and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical. Fee includes transportation by deluxe motor coach, tickets and trip leader. Registration deadline is Dec. 7.
Fee: Member: $155, Nonmember: $180
Time: 12-5:30 p.m.
Location: Bus leaves from parking lot
Extended Travel
Phantom of the Opera
THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2026
Join us for a matinee performance of Phantom of the Opera at the Buell Theater in Denver. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s romantic, haunting and soaring score includes “The Music of the Night,” “All I Ask of You,” “Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again,” “Masquerade” and the iconic title song. It tells the tale of a disfigured musical genius known only as the Phantom, who haunts the depths of the Paris Opera House. Mesmerized by the talents and beauty of a young soprano, Christine, the Phantom lures her as his protégé and falls fiercely in love with her. Unaware of Christine’s love for Raoul, the Phantom’s obsession sets the scene for a dramatic turn of events where jealousy, madness and passions collide. Trip includes transportation by deluxe motor coach, seats and trip leader.
Fee: Member: $155, Nonmember: $180
Time: 12-6 p.m.
Location: Bus leaves from parking lot
Due to low registrations, the Britain and Ireland trip scheduled for May 2026 has been canceled. If you are interested in traveling with the senior center next fall, please complete the 2026 Fall Travel Survey. Please visit surveymonkey.com/r/6VF5JFH to give your input on the next destination.
