Help us show the community what active aging looks like by walking with senior center members in the annual Highlands Ranch 4th of July parade. The parade takes place along Highlands Ranch Parkway, between Hepburn Street and Ridgeline Boulevard. Wear your most patriotic gear and hand out candy along the parade route. Please let us know you will be joining us by signing up at highlandsranch.org/myactivecenter.
Fee: No fee
Date: Friday, July 4
Time: 8 a.m.
Staging location: Kaiser Permanente building, 9285 Hepburn St.
The senior center is excited to offer EnhanceFitness®, a 16-week evidencebased exercise and falls prevention program starting July 7.
Taught by an instructor certified to teach EnhanceFitness, the class includes a warmup, aerobic workout, strength training with soft cuff weights, stretching, balance exercises and cool down. More than 99 percent of participants recommend the class to others.
Fee: Member: $174, Nonmember: $200
Renew Active, Silver and Fit and SilverSneakers members are eligible for a $144 discount.
Dates: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays July 7-Oct. 27
Time: 2-3 p.m.
Location: Fitness Room
STAY INFORMED
Senior Center closed July 4
The senior center will be closed on Friday, July 4 in observance of Independence Day. Join senior center members at the annual Highlands Ranch 4th of July parade instead of coming to the center.
Are you a military veteran?
If yes, please check that our database reflects this by confirming with Cindy at the front desk. We want to make sure you receive an invitation to upcoming events for veterans.
Senior Center snapshots
Link on Demand recently visited to share information about the new, free transportation service in Highlands Ranch.
Members learn new painting skills.
An ice cream social on the patio helped kick off summer.
A recent cooking class focused on preparing meals for one or two.
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 & Rob Hill, Facility Services Technicians
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 do not get 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 programs listed as “No fee”, nonmembers will need to purchase a day pass to the center.
Learn to Play Mahjong – National
MONDAYS, JUNE 30, JULY 7, 14, 21, 28
Join us for a beginner-friendly class introducing the rules, strategies and tile sets used in National Mahjong. This is a great opportunity for new players or those looking to build confidence in a supportive, hands-on environment.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1:30-4 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room 3
MyActiveCenter - How to use it
WEDNESDAY, JULY 2
This session will walk you through how to use MyActiveCenter, our online registration system. We’ll cover how to sign in, browse and register for classes and events and view your upcoming activities. Katie will lead the session and be available to answer questions throughout. You can also sign up for oneon-one appointments held after the class.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Strings & Things Music Club
WEDNESDAY, JULY 2
This social group is for individuals who enjoy playing or singing and sharing it with others. Participants are encouraged to bring their own acoustic instruments.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room 3
Lunchtime BBQs
THURSDAY, JULY 3, FRIDAY, JULY 25 & FRIDAY, AUGUST 22
Grab a bite to eat while you are at the senior center. We will be grilling burgers and dogs on the patio for you to enjoy. Registration is required to assist us with ordering. Burgers will be $5, cheeseburgers $5.50 and hot dogs are $3.50. All orders include potato chips and drink.
Fee: No fee
Time: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Location: Patio
Bingo
THURSDAY, JULY 3 & TUESDAY, JULY 15
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. Play begins at 12:45 p.m.
Fee: No fee
Time: 12:30-3:30 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
New Member Orientation
MONDAY, JULY 7
Join 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
Card Making & Paper Crafts Club
TUESDAY, JULY 8 & WEDNESDAY, JULY 23
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
Gardening Help Desk
WEDNESDAY, JULY 9
Stop by the gardening help desk and have your gardening questions answered by master gardeners from CSU Extension Douglas County.
Fee: No fee
Time: 11 a.m.-3 p..m.
Location: South Lobby
Veteran Coffee Chat
THURSDAY, JULY 10
Drop by this informal morning coffee chat and make new friends with other veterans. Breakfast treats courtesy of Senior Helpers Littleton.
Fee: No fee
Time: 8:45-10:15 a.m.
Location: South Lobby
YouTube for Beginners
FRIDAY, JULY 11 OR 25
Learn the basics of YouTube with a brief explanation and demo. Bring your computer to stay for optional hands-on practice afterward. It’s easy to use and a great source of entertainment and information. Only four spots per class.
Fee: No fee
Time: 2-3 p.m.
Location: Classroom
AARP Driver Safety Program
MONDAY JULY 14
This four-hour classroom refresher is designed to meet the needs of older drivers. It covers agerelated physical changes, declining perceptual skills, rules of the road, new laws, local driving problems and license renewal requirements.
Fee: AARP Member: $20, AARP Nonmember: $25
Please register through AARP at tinyurl.com/27a7pwm9
Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Coping with Japanese Beetles
MONDAY, JULY 14
Hear about Japanese biocontrols and strategies to eliminate the beetles from Front Range gardens.
Fee: Member: $4, Nonmember: $5
Time: 1:30 p.m.
Location: Activity Room
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Caregiver Support Group
TUESDAY, JULY 15
This informal discussion group will provide valuable information to help you in your caregiving role. We ask that you attend without your loved one, so that you are free to share more comfortably.
Fee: No fee
Time: 2-3:30 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Understanding Art
WEDNESDAY, JULY 16
Ever wondered what makes a piece of art museum worthy? Join Wendy Adler for a welcoming, engaging and interactive discussion on how to look at art with fresh eyes.
Fee: Member: $3, Nonmember: $4
Time: 1-2 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Hearing Clinic
WEDNESDAY, JULY 16
During your one-on-one visit with Dr. Jessen or Dr. Kraus, you will receive a video otoscopy, inspection, cleaning and replacement of parts on current hearing aids, basic hearing screenings and get questions answered about hearing loss, hearing aids or recommendations for hearing loss treatment.
Fee: No fee. Registration required and visits are by appointment only.
Time: 1-4 p.m.
Location: Meeting Room
Glass Etching Class
THURSDAY, JULY 17
Etch a beautiful bird and branch design on glass with guided instruction. No experience needed, and all materials are provided. Take home your own elegant candle vase.
Fee: Member: $18, Nonmember: $20
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: Activity Room
Older Adult Health & Resource Expo
THURSDAY, JULY 17, 1-4 P.M.
No registration required and free to attend. Each expo offers different vendors from the previous event, with new information about products and services, including legal, financial, Medicare, moving services, hearing care and much more. Free services will also be offered, including chiropractic services, hearing screenings and physical therapy screenings. Invite a friend or loved one to come as well. All are welcome!
Sock Hop Dance
THURSDAY, JULY 17
Put on your favorite look from the 50s, 60s or 70s and join us for a fun night of dancing with the Cruisin’ Cats. Enjoy BBQ pork sandwiches, beer and wine while we rock around the clock!
Fee: Member: $30, Nonmember: $34
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Book Lovers Talk
FRIDAY, JULY 18
This lively discussion about newly released books, staff picks and more will be led by Lisa Casper, community relations liaison for Douglas County Libraries at Highlands Ranch.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Eye Health Tips
WEDNESDAY, JULY 23
July is Healthy Vision Month. Dr. Paige Stephens will speak to changes in eye health as we grow older and warning signs that need our attention, including information about glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, dry eye and more.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1:30-3 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Happy Hour Social
WEDNESDAY, JULY 23
Join us for a fun-filled evening every month. Meet new people, enjoy great music and have fun with interactive icebreaker games while indulging in tasty snacks. Bring your own refreshments (BYOB) and relax in a welcoming atmosphere.
Fee: Member: $5, Nonmember: $6
Time: 4-6 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
Jewelry Art Studio
THURSDAY, JULY 24
Discover how to design an elegant stretch necklace with real gemstones, rhinestones and silver or gold-plated beads along with a pair of earrings. All supplies provided, just bring your creativity!
Fee: Member: $18, Nonmember: $20
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: Activity Room
Book Club
THURSDAY, JULY 24
Love to read and discuss books with others? Attend this informational session to learn how you can become part of our book club. We’ll talk about how the club will be organized, how books will be selected and what to expect from the group discussions. This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow readers and help shape a new club at the senior center.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Cooking Class: Protein-Powered Breakfast
TUESDAY, JULY 29
Power-up your breakfast with nutritious and delicious ideas for an easy to prepare and protein-packed breakfast. This demonstration will be led by registered dietician Susan Weitkunat, South Denver Cardiology Associates.
Fee: Member: $6, Nonmember: $7
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Kitchen
ONGOING 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.
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. Please remember you must show up to fitness classes for the senior center to be reimbursed by your insurance.
If you are just learning bridge, or played years ago, this is perfect for you.
ONGOING CLASSES & GAMES
ONGOING CLASSES & GAMES
A card game involving combinations for points and strategy.
Alternate upper body strength work with low-impact cardio.
10 a.m.noon Watercolor Painting
11 a.m.noon Chair Yoga
Play this fun Midwestern game of trump.
Learn the basics of bidding, strategy, and game play. Starts 5/9.
Learn the basics. All materials provided.
Suitable for all levels, including those with limited mobility. MPR 1 Venus
Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center Board Meetings
The Friends now hold two board meetings each month, on the first and third Monday. July meetings are scheduled for July 7 and July 21 from 9 - 11 a.m. Join us to learn about the various events we are working on and to ask questions or provide input on Friends activities. We welcome all members to attend.
Recipe Book
Recipes are coming in and we hope you will consider submitting your favorite recipe for inclusion in the senior center recipe book. Submission forms are located on the wall outside the administrative offices. Complete the form and drop it at the front desk. The deadline for submitting a recipe is Thursday, July 31.
Online store
New spring apparel is now available at friendsofhrsc.org and includes lighter clothing options for the warm season. Short-sleeved T-shirts are also available by calling 720-468-4825. Women’s shirts run very small, so we can meet you at the center with samples so you can determine the best size for you.
Fundraising Purchases
At its April meeting, the Friends board approved the funding for four new tables and 16 chairs for the Game Room. The funds were raised in part from the successful silent auction held in April. The furniture should be delivered in four to six weeks.
July Friends luncheon
Date: Wednesday, July 9
Time: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Fee: $15 per person
Contact information
Website: friendsofhrsc.org
Email: friendshrseniorcenter@gmail.com
Phone: 720-468-4825
Enjoy visiting with new and old friends as you listen to great music by Nevan (Young Elvis) Castanada.. This festive luncheon is sponsored by Jodi Stoker Insurance (tinyurl.com/muyh6dyf). The menu includes chicken salad sandwich or ham & cheese sandwich on a croissant, fruit salad, chips and dessert. Gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian items will be avaialable. Registration and payment will be accepted at the senior center front desk. Payment must be received by Wednesday, July 2. Cash or check payable to “Friends of the HRSC”. Nonmembers will need to purchase a day pass at the front desk on the day of the luncheon.
RESOURCES & OPPORTUNITIES
Free Monthly Hearing Clinics
WEDNESDAYS, JULY 16 AND AUG. 20
“Hearing loss can be insidious, chipping away at the hearing you have, zapping energy and eroding confidence and the will to stay engaged, especially with those we love.” — Barbara Kelly, Executive Director, Hearing Loss Association of America.
Maybe you can relate. Have you ever felt like it is too exhausting to attend a large gathering or event? Too difficult to follow conversations at a class or meal at a restaurant? How about staff at your medical appointments, when you can’t understand what is being said and have to ask them to repeat themselves?
Sign-up for a free 20-minute hearing consultation with Dr. Joe Kraus of Columbine Hearing Care. Dr. Kraus will listen to your concerns, answer your questions and conduct a basic hearing screening if you do not have hearing aids or have not had a hearing test.
Stepping On: Fall Risk Prevention Series
THURSDAYS, AUG. 14-SEPT. 25
Balance is key to preventing a fall. Balance can decline as we get older. The good news is that it is never too late to gain it back. Join us for this seven-week evidencebased series and learn much more than balance exercises. Professionals from a variety of disciplines at UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital will inspire you to become stronger and more confident. You won’t be disappointed.
Fee: Member: No fee. Nonmember: Day pass required.
Time: 9-11 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Do you have osteoporosis?
Don’t wait for a bone to break. Get tested for osteoporosis. Talk with your doctor about whether a bone mass measurement test is right for you. This test can help prevent or detect osteoporosis at an early stage, when treatment works best.
Medicare Part B covers a bone mass measurement once every 24 months (more often if medically necessary) at no cost to you when your doctor orders it.
Tips to prevent weakened bones and keep bones strong:
• Eat foods that support bone health. Get enough calcium, vitamin D, and protein each day.
• Get active. Choose weight-bearing exercises, such as strength training, walking, hiking, jogging, climbing stairs, tennis and dancing.
• Don’t smoke. Smoking increases your risk of weakened bones. If you do smoke, consider quitting.
RESOURCES & OPPORTUNITIES
Complete a BetterAge Survey
The senior center is part of a national project to assess the overall health and wellbeing of older adults.
When members complete the BetterAge survey, staff will get an overall view of how individuals are doing in terms of life satisfaction, physical and mental health, social isolation, meaning and purpose and financial stability. This will help staff plan programs, allocate resources and offer resources to services. In return, individuals who complete the survey will get personalized recommendations to improve their own health and well-being.
Please fill out a paper survey available in the lobby, visit tinyurl.com/highlandsranchsc or use the QR code.
Stay Safe in the Sun
Take advantage of GetSetUp
We have partnered with award-winning GetSetUp to provide hundreds of free, live and on-demand online classes to keep you mentally, physically and socially active when you can’t be at the senior center. Classes are interactive, easy to join, offered day and night and free for center members. Scan the QR code or visit the website at getsetup.io/partner/HL to see all the wonderful classes you can take including:
• Love or lie? Steering clear of online romance scams
• Art Journalling: Reflect, Remember and Honor
• Irresistible Air Fryer Recipes
• Yoga for Arthritis and Inflammation
With warm sunny days ahead, we will be spending more time outdoors. Here are some tips for protecting your skin from harmful rays that are the primary cause of skin cancer.
• Seek out shade when possible.
• Shield your skin with clothing.
• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
• Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside.
• Reapply at least every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
• Don’t forget your sunglasses for UV eye protection.
Library Books
If you have recently published books in good condition that you think others may enjoy, please drop them off at the front desk the week of July 7-11. Our library works on an honor system. Members are free to take a book home and return it when finished.
DAY AND EXTENDED TRIPS
Garden of the Gods and Manitou Cliff Dwellings
TUESDAY, JULY 15
Visit the spectacular Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center, where you can spend the morning walking the trails around the majestic rock formations. We will stop for lunch on your own at the Edelweiss Restaurant, and then travel to the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, which are comprised of ancestral Puebloan ruins that date back 800 to 1,000 years. Trip includes transportation by motor coach, entry fees and trip leader. You’ll pay for your own lunch. Trip involves walking over paved surfaces.
Fee: Member: $61, Nonmember: $70
Time: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Location: Bus leaves from parking lot
Exploring Britain and Ireland Trip
MONDAY, MAY 11 - MONDAY, MAY 25, 2026
Fairmount Cemetery Tour Trip
SATURDAY, SEPT. 13
Join us as we travel by motorcoach to Denver’s Fairmount Cemetery for the Sacred 36 Tour where actors will portray several people who once called Denver home and now rest at Fairmount Cemetery. During this walk through the cemetery, you’ll meet some of the famous folks that made Denver famous such as Louisa Sneed Hill, May Bonfils Stanton, Polly Pry, Henry Brown, William and Elizabeth Byers, Gertrude Cuthbert and many others. This trip involves walking on flat surfaces for two hours, so wear good walking shoes. Trip will be held rain or shine. Fee includes transportation on deluxe motorcoach and trip leader.
Fee: Member: $80, Nonmember: $92
Time: 4-8 p.m.
Location: Bus leaves from parking lot
Travel with the Highlands Ranch Senior Center to beautiful Great Britain and Ireland. The itinerary includes stops in Edinburgh (Scotland), York and London (England), Cardiff (Wales) and Waterford, Killarney and Dublin (Ireland).
Only 29 spots are available! Cost per person is $6,824 double and $8,624 single and includes round trip airfare from Denver International Airport, air taxes and fees/ surcharges, hotel transfers, bus to/from the senior center to the airport and trip leader. Not included is trip cancellation waiver and insurance of $549/person.
For more information or to make a reservation, visit https://gateway.gocollette.com/link/1353006.
