303-791-2416 | highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter | seniorcenterinfo@highlandsranch.org | 200 E. Highlands Ranch Parkway, Suite 100
Link on Demand comes to Highlands Ranch
Douglas County is partnering with Via Transportation to provide the Highlands Ranch Link, a shuttle service similar to the Lone Tree Link. This free service will be available to all ages and starts on Tuesday, May 27.
The schedule is Monday-Thursday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Up to 15 vehicles will be on the road during peak hours. To use, simply download the Link On Demand app, available on both Android and iOS, sign up for an account and book your ride.
Technology Days: Wednesday, June 25 and Thursday, June 26
Do you struggle using your computer, tablet or smartphone? Technology experts from Connected Nation can help. Trainers from Connected Nation will be at the Senior Center for two days in June to help you improve your technology skills in a supportive, in-person setting. Daytime and evening classes are available. Register at highlandsranch.org/myactivecenter. This program is supported by AT&T’s efforts to advance digital literacy across America.
Wednesday, June 25
• 10 a.m.-noon: Computer and Internet Basics
• 1-3 p.m.: Open Lab
• 6-8 p.m.: Computer and Internet Basics Thursday, June 26
• 10 a.m.-noon: Internet Safety and Mobile Device Basics
• 1-3 p.m.: Open Lab
• 6-8 p.m.: Internet Safety and Mobile Device Basics
Welcome summer with a BBQ and games
FRIDAY, JUNE 20
Kick off the summer with an enjoyable and relaxing afternoon BBQ in partnership with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies will be cooking up burgers and hot dogs on the grill. Enjoy music and games including cornhole, bocce ball and ladder toss.
Fee: Member: $8, Nonmember: $10
Time: Noon-3 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room and Patio
STAY INFORMED
Participate in the Family & Friends Walk to End Alzheimer’s Disease
Friends and family teams are at the heart of the Alzheimer’s Assocation’s annual event, The Longest Day. You are invited to walk with the Senior Center’s team as we bring awareness and raise funds to end Alzheimer’s Disease. Our fundraising goal is $500.
Date: Thursday, June 19
Time: 9 a.m.-noon
Location: Redstone Park, 3280 Redstone Park Circle, near the playground
Fee: $20 (includes T-shirt). Register for our team at https://tinyurl.com/mpv476je
Service vs. emotional support animals
Our operating policies allow service animals in the building, but do not permit emotional support animals. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, service animals are:
• Any breed and any size of dog
• Trained to perform a task directly related to a person’s disability
• Service animals are not:
• Required to be certified or go through a professional training program
• Required to wear a vest or other ID that indicates they’re a service dog
• Emotional support or comfort dogs, because providing emotional support or comfort is not a task related to a person’s disability If the dog’s mere presence provides comfort, it is not a service animal under the ADA. But if the dog is trained to perform a task related to a person’s disability, it is a service animal under the ADA. Thank you for respecting our policies. NEWSLETTER & GUIDE
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 & Rob Hill, Facility Services Technicians Hours
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. See highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter for policies.
• 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 programs listed as “No fee”, nonmembers will need to purchase a day pass to the center.
New Member Orientation
MONDAY, JUNE 2
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
Cooking for One or Two: Meal Planning Made Easy
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4
Cooking for one or two can be a challenge. This meal prep demonstration will introduce you to ideas for shopping and preparing healthy meals and meal plans that taste great, save time and support good health. Register today. Space is limited.
Fee: Member: $6, Nonmember: $7
Time: 1:30 p.m.
Location: Kitchen
Maximizing Your Social Security
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4
Eric Walters, CFP and founder of Summit Hill Wealth Management will lead this in-person program to breakdown the most important Social Security decisions you will face. Eric will provide expert insights on when to claim social security, spousal benefits, survivor benefits, working while collecting Social Security and the future of the system.
Fee: No fee
Time: 6-7 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Bingo
THURSDAY, JUNE 5 & TUESDAY, JUNE 17
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
YouTube for Beginners
FRIDAY JUNE 6, 13, 20 OR 27
Learn the basics of YouTube with a brief introduction and demo. Bring your computer for an optional hands-on practice afterwards. On YouTube, you can watch videos on nearly any topic, anytime you want. 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 JUNE 9
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 problems and license renewal requirements.
Fee: AARP Member: $20, AARP Nonmember: $25 Please register through AARP at https://tinyurl.com/27a7pwm9
Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Location: Classroom
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Card Making & Paper Crafts Club
TUESDAY, JUNE 10 & WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25
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
Men’s Health Month: Let’s Talk
TUESDAY, JUNE 10
Don't be shy, guys! For Men’s Health Month in June, Dr. Jeff Morrison, Urologist and Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado Medical School, will talk about important men’s health issues.
Fee: No fee
Time: 2-3 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Blood Pressure Checks
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11
Have your blood pressure checked by UC Health Highlands Ranch Hospital nursing professionals.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: North Lobby
Gardening Help Desk
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11
CSU Extension Douglas County Master Gardeners will answer questions about gardening.
Fee: No fee
Time: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Location: South Lobby
Veteran Coffee Chat
THURSDAY, JUNE 12
At this informal morning coffee chat, make new friends with other veterans.
Fee: No fee
Time: 8:45-10:15 a.m.
Location: South Lobby
Afternoon BBQ & Games
SATURDAY, JUNE 14
Enjoy delicious BBQ favorites (BYOB) and spend the afternoon playing cornhole, bocce ball and ladder toss.
Fee: Member: $8, Nonmember: $10
Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: Patio
CBD and Cannabis Products
MONDAY, JUNE 16
Douglas County Health Department personnel will present information about CBD and Cannabis products, including the difference between CBD and THC and the risks and benefits to using CBD products in your wellness journey.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Pens and Possibilities: A Creative Writing Workshop with an AI Twist
TUESDAY, JUNE 17
This creative writing workshop offers a blend of storytelling and technology. You’ll learn how modern tools are shaping the writing process and discover how artificial intelligence can support, not replace, your creativity. Bring a laptop or tablet or notebook and pencil if you prefer to write by hand.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Caregiver Support Group
TUESDAY, JUNE 17
This informal discussion group will provide valuable information to help you in your caregiving role. We ask that you attend without your loved one.
Fee: No fee
Time: 2-3:30 p.m.
Location: Classroom
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Morning Meet & Greet with
District Attorney George Brauchler
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18
Join us for a casual gathering with light refreshments as we welcome District Attorney George Brauchler, 23rd Judicial District, to the senior center.
Fee: No fee
Time: 9-10 a.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room 2
Hearing Clinic
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18
Dr. Jessen or Dr. Kraus will provide a video otoscopy (ear canal check), inspect, clean and replace parts on current hearing aids and conduct basic hearing screenings for those without hearing aids.
Fee: No fee. Registration required and one-on-one visits are by appointment only.
Time: 1-4 p.m.
Location: Meeting Room
The Lewis and Clark Expedition of Discovery
THURSDAY, JUNE 19
Explore the dramatic story of the 1804 Lewis and Clark expedition, launched after the Louisiana Purchase. Relive the challenges and discoveries that shaped a nation.
Fee: No fee.
Time: 2:30-4 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Emotional Impacts of Hearing Loss
MONDAY, JUNE 23
Hearing loss is more than just a physical condition— it’s a communication disability that can affect your work, relationships, your confidence and your mental health. Learn how we can be our own best advocates when experiencing hearing loss.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Houseplant Doctor
MONDAY, JUNE 23
Learn tips and tricks about regular care and common ailments of houseplants. Taught by a master gardener from the CSU Extension program.
Fee: Member: $5, Nonmember: $8
Time: 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Location: Activity Room
Brain and Body Health
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25
Learn how lifestyle choices including diet, exercise, cognitive activities and social engagement can keep our brain and body healthy. These can potentially reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias as we age.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1:30-3 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Pup & Cup Coffee Chat
THURSDAY, JUNE 26
Stop in for a visit with Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Senior Resource Deputy Ryan Falkner and fourlegged Law Enforcement Officer Leo.
Fee: No fee
Time: 8:45-10:15 a.m.
Location: Lobby
ONGOING CLASSES & GAMES
Register and view full class descriptions at highlandsranch.org/myactivecenter.
Registration: All fitness classes and games (except Ageless Grace) require single-class registration. Registration will continue to open 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. Day pass required for nonmembers.
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. Please remember you must show up to fitness classes for the senior center to be reimbursed by your insurance.
8-10 a.m. Walking Club
8:45-9:45 a.m. Chair Yoga
a.m. Gentle Yoga
a.m. -
Beginner Drawing
10 a.m.noon BridgeRefresh
11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m. Tai Chi
p.m. (1st & 3rd) Ballroom Dance
Meet in front of the main entrance at 8 a.m. and head out along the Diamond K trail for a morning walk.
Suitable for all levels, including those with limited mobility, the class promotes well-being and relaxation.
Requires the ability to transition comfortably from the floor to standing.
Learn the essential principles of drawing. Starter kit is an additional $15 at the front desk.
If you are just learning bridge, or played years ago, this is perfect for you. Game Room Volunteer No fee
A gentle and accessible introduction to Yang style Tai Chi.
A gentle and accessible introduction to Yang style Tai Chi.
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
ONGOING CLASSES & GAMES
11:15 a.m. - noon
& Balance - Beg. Tailored for newcomers; chairs are used for exercises and support.
1-3:30 p.m. (1st Wed.) Strings & Things
1-3:30 p.m. Needle Arts
1-4 p.m. Bocce Open Play
Social group where members gather to make and share music.
Join others to practice various forms of needle work including knitting, crochet and sewing.
All skill levels are welcome to play this fun and social game. Bocce Courts
1-4 p.m. One-on-One Tech Help 45-minute sessions. Appointments are required.
1-4 p.m. MahjongNational
Mahjong is a tile-based game that was developed in the 19th century in China.
ONGOING CLASSES & GAMES
A card game involving combinations for points and strategy.
- Beg.
Alternate upper body strength work with low-impact cardio.
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.
This class boosts heart health, muscle strength, endurance, balance and flexibility.
Play all of the dominoes from your hand before your opponents.
GET INVOLVED
Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center board
meetings
The Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center Board of Directors meets on the first and third Mondays of the month from 9 - 11 a.m. The board manages the day-to-day administration of the Friends organization. All members are welcome to attend and participate in the general discussion portion of these meetings.
Recipe Book
The Friends is compiling a Highlands Ranch Senior Center recipe book as a fundraiser. Information and forms are on the wall outside the administrative offices. If you have a favorite recipe to share, complete a form and drop it at the front desk.
Online Store
New apparel, including lighter clothing for summer, is now available at friendsofhrsc.org. Short-sleeved T-shirts are also available by calling 720-468-4825. We can meet you at the center with samples so you can determine the best size for you.
Food Drive - June 2-13
Summer is a difficult time for some in our community. Donate unexpired non-perishable food items (tuna, canned fruit and vegetables, pasta, peanut butter, jelly, soup) or donate by cash or check to the Food Bank of the Rockies. Bins are located in the hallway. No glass or open packages please.
Payment for Friends activities
All payment for Friends' activities including luncheons and dinners must be paid at the senior center front desk.
Contact information
Website: friendsofhrsc.org
Email: friendshrseniorcenter@gmail.com
Phone: 720-468-4825
June Friends Luncheon
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11
Enjoy visiting with new and old friends as you listen to great music by Mike Finkiewicz. Luncheon sponsored by Vicki Mahan, Remax Professionals (https:// tinyurl.com/46s89ds2). The menu includes BBQ pork sandwiches (gluten-free sauce), coleslaw, watermelon slice and dessert.
Payment by cash, or check payable to “Friends of the HRSC,” must be made at the senior center front desk by Wednesday, June 4. Nonmembers will need to purchase a day pass at the front desk on the day of the luncheon.
Fee: $15 per person
Time: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
Spaghetti Dinner
FRIDAY, JUNE 13
When Italians say, “mangiare!” they mean eat. And that is what you will do as the Friends Board members cook a delicious spaghetti dinner for you. We’ll also have karaoke, bocce, prizes and lots of fun!
Fee: $10 plus two non-perishable food donations. Pay by Friday, June 6.
Time: 4-6 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room and patio
Membership Meeting
TUESDAY, JUNE 24
Learn about upcoming Friends fundraising events, volunteer opportunities, programming updates and more. This is your chance to be involved, ask questions and share feedback with the Friends board members and staff.
Fee: No fee
Time: 2-3 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
RESOURCES & OPPORTUNITIES
Windows 10 support ends in October
Did you know beginning Oct.14, Microsoft will no longer provide free software updates from Windows Update, technical assistance or security fixes for Windows 10? While your PC will still work, it may become more vulnerable to hacks. If your current computer is not already on Windows 11, or is not capable of running Windows 11, you might want to buy a new computer or transition to another operating system like Linux. For more information, visit microsoft.com.
Complete a BetterAge Survey
The Highlands Ranch 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.highlandsranchsc or use the QR code.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is June 15
It can be hard to imagine anyone would deliberately want to harm an elderly person, but unfortunately, elder abuse is a widespread problem. Some instances of elder abuse are intended to exploit the person financially; you’ve probably heard of scams targeting seniors. In other cases, it’s simple negligence: Caregivers don’t provide the basic necessities, like nutritious food, appropriate medication or safety or assistance with hygiene.
Five facts about elder abuse
• It happens mostly at home. Elder abuse instances happen mostly in the home where the senior lives.
• One in every 10 elder adults experiences some form of abuse in their lifetime.
• Finances are at the highest risk. The most common form of abuse is financial exploitation and extortion.
• Nine out of 10 elder abusers are relatives. In about 90% of elder abuse and neglect incidents, the perpetrator is a family member.
• Many cases go unreported. Only one in six instances of elder abuse is reported. Why World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is important
Older Americans may be unable to advocate for themselves, whether they are physically frail or because they are scared of speaking up out of fear of repercussions. It’s crucial for all of us to be on the lookout for signs of elder abuse, and to speak up if something seems wrong.
RESOURCES & OPPORTUNITIES
Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center silent auction results
Thank you to all the individuals who participated in the first Friends Silent Auction. Through the generous support of our members and community partners, we were able to raise $7,500! We would like to thank Jim Davis and Darla Jekich for their hard work on the auction committee, the volunteers who assisted with the event and the following businesses who donated items for the auction:
• Ameristar Casino
• Aubrey’s Menagerie
• Big Bill's New York Pizza
• Bill’s Sports
• Blue Island Oyster Bar
• Bowlero
• Cheesecake Factory
• Chefs for Seniors
• Chili’s
• Corner Bakery Cafe
• Eileen’s Cookies
• Floyd’s Barbershop
• Highlands Ranch High School
• Imprints Littleton
• Jodie Stoker, State Farm Insurance
• Ken Caryl Glass
• King Soopers
• Kroenke Sports
• Lansdowne Arms
• LaTierra Salon & Day Spa
• Lazy Dog
• Lone Tree Arts Center
• Monarch Casino
• Next Auto Care
• Nothing Bundt Cakes
• Olive Garden
• Onus IV Therapy
• Outback Steakhouse
• Rock Bottom Brewery
• Safeway
Bocce League kickoff meeting
THURSDAY, JUNE 5, 10 A.M.
• South Suburban Restaurant
• The Links Golf Course
• ThunderRidge High School
• University of Denver Golf Club
• Water 2 Wine
• Wilmore Nursery
The senior center will launch its summer bocce league during the second week of June. All are welcome to participate, whether you are new to the game or a seasoned player. Come to the kickoff meeting at the bocce courts to learn more about the league, meet other participants and form teams.
League Details
• Teams will consist of four to six players.
• Games will be scheduled at 10 a.m. or 3 p.m., depending on interest.
• Each team will play eight matches. Each match includes two 30-minute games.
This is a great opportunity to stay active, meet new people and enjoy friendly competition.
Register at highlandsranch.org/myactivecenter.
DAY TRIPS
Wings Over the Rockies
THURSDAY, JUNE 12
Travel by motor coach to the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, located in Hangar 1 of the former Lowry Air Force Base in Denver. The museum is dedicated to displaying iconic aircraft, space vehicles, artifacts, military uniforms and much more. We will spend the morning touring the museum and then stop for lunch at the Lowry Beer Garden. Trip includes transportation by motor coach, entry fees and trip leader. You pay for your own lunch. Trip involves walking over paved surfaces. No refunds unless ticket can be resold.
Fee: Member: $55, Nonmember: $63
Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Location: Bus leaves from parking lot
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 pay for your own lunch. Trip involves walking over paved surfaces. No refunds unless ticket can be resold.
Fee: Member: $61, Nonmember: $70
Time: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Location: Bus leaves from parking lot
Leadville Train Ride and Fall Colors
TUESDAY, SEPT. 23
A second bus has been added! All aboard! Journey to a place that is rich in history and beauty. Leadville is a quaint historic mining town in the heart of the Rockies with the Leadville Colorado and Southern Railroad as one of its main attractions. We will get an early start at 7 a.m. from the senior center and travel by motor coach to the Leadville train depot while enjoying picturesque fall colors along the way. We will then board the train at 10 a.m. and embark on a 2.5-hour scenic ride while the conductor talks about the rich history of the area. Box lunches will be provided for the ride. After the train trip, explore the shops on main street before boarding the coach back to the senior center. Trip includes transportation by motor coach, train ticket, box lunch and trip leader. No refunds unless ticket can be resold.
Fee: Member: $132, Nonmember: $152
Time: 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
Location: Buses leave from parking lot
Extended trips for 2026
Are you interested in travelling to Europe in the spring or fall of 2026? If yes, please register in MyActiveCenter under 2026 Extended Travel Information so you can be informed about upcoming trip details.
Traveling with fellow senior center members is a safe and fun way to explore new places with people who share your interests. Staff accompany all trips to handle any issues that may arise.
