National Senior Center Month powers possibilities and flips the script on aging
According to the National Council on Aging, senior centers are not just places to gather—they are engines of innovation and engagement. They help older adults thrive through:
• Social connection that combats loneliness and isolation
• Health and wellness programs that promote vitality
• Economic security resources that offer stability
• Intergenerational activities and
caregiving support
• Creative and cultural engagement that brings joy and purpose
• Access to services that support independence and well-being
• Technology access and training to promote digital inclusion
Our 1,900+ members are grateful that the Highlands Ranch Metro District has provided such a beautiful senior center for powering possibilities!
Swing Shift to perform for Senior Center Month
The Swing Shift band, part of the Highlands Ranch Concert Band, will present “Is That Really Jazz,” featuring songs from the past that didn’t start as jazz arrangements.
Date: Sunday, Sept. 28
Time: 3-4 p.m.
Fee: No fee; all ages are welcome
Location: Multipurpose Room
Moonlight Masquerade brings magic
Join us for a magical evening at the Moonlight Masquerade as we celebrate Senior Center Month and show appreciation for our members. Dress to impress, wear a mask and enjoy an array of delicious appetizers catered by Simply Savor, along with drinks and a captivating performance by a magician.
Date: Saturday, Sept. 20
Time: 5-8 p.m.
Fee: Member: $10, Nonmember: $11
Location: Multipurpose Room
STAY INFORMED
Senior center closures in September
The Highlands Ranch Senior Center will be closed Monday, Sept. 1 for Labor Day and Wednesday, Sept. 17 for the Seniors’ Council of Douglas County Vintage & Vibrant conference. For more information and to register for the Vintage & Vibrant conference, please visit the Seniors’ Council page at douglas.co.us.
Don’t miss the bus
We have a day trip to see the fall colors and ride the train in Leadville scheduled for 7 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 23, and an extended trip to Canada that departs at 3 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 26. Please make sure you are at the center at least 15 minutes prior to departure. The buses will leave at the scheduled departure time and will not wait for late arrivals.
Volunteer line dancing instructor needed
Do you love to line dance or have you ever taught line dancing? We are searching for a substitute to fill in when needed. Please contact Lyndsey George if you are intersted at lgeorge@highlandsranch.org or 720-468-4824.
Get help applying for senior housing income tax credits
The Colorado General Assembly has approved three senior housing income tax credit programs for older adults. The Colorado Gerontological Society is partnering with health insurance agents throughout the state to provide tax help in completing the forms for the Senior Housing Income Tax Credit, the PTC 104 and the Senior Property Tax Homestead Exemption.
Attend an in-person event by making an appointment at a location near you, or contact a local office and an agent will make an appointment with you to complete the forms. There is no charge for the assistance. Help is available in English and Spanish. For more information, visit senioranswers.org
Out of the office
Jill Hall, senior services manager, will be on vacation from Thursday, Aug. 28 through Saturday, Sept. 13 and on the trip to Canada with senior center members from Friday, Sept. 26 through Saturday, Oct. 4. Katie Ireland will be assuming Jill’s responsibilities during this time, with assistance from Jodie McCann and Lyndsey George. Please contact Katie at 720-468-4823 or kireland@highlandsranch.org if you need assistance.
NEWSLETTER & GUIDE
AUGUST 2025
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 & Vacant, 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 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.
Tote Bag Screen Printing
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 3
This beginner-friendly class explores the basics of screen printing as you transfer a charming design of two birds nestled in a floral wreath onto a canvas tote bag. Once the design is printed, use fabric markers to add color and personality, making your tote uniquely yours. Everyone will leave with a custom-decorated bag, a new creative skill and a sense of accomplishment. No experience is necessary and all materials are included.
Fee: Member: $20, Nonmember: $22
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: Activity Room
Jewelry Art Studio
THURSDAY, SEPT. 4
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
Bingo
THURSDAY, SEPT. 4
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
Learn to Play Military Mahjong
FRIDAYS, SEPT. 5,12,19 & OCT. 3
Join us for a beginner-friendly class introducing the rules, strategies and tile sets used in Military 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: 10:30 a.m.-noon
Location: Multipurpose Room 2
YouTube: Beyond the Basics
FRIDAY, SEPT. 5, 12, 19 OR 26
This beyond-the-basics class explores useful features that will help you navigate this popular platform.
Fee: No fee
Time: 2-4 p.m.
Location: Classroom
AARP Driver Safety Program
MONDAY SEPT. 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 problems 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
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Mugs for Rugs
MONDAY, SEPT. 8
Bring a rug from home to donate and receive a ThinkFirst mug as a reminder to prevent your fall risk. Rugs will be donated to a local charity. No registration required.
Fee: No fee
Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: South Lobby
New Member Orientation
MONDAY, SEPT. 8
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
Understanding Joint Health: Prevention to Replacement
TUESDAY, SEPT. 9
Dr. Joshua Shapiro, orthopedic surgeon at Panorama Orthopedics, will discuss how to keep your joints healthy and what to know about treatment options when joint pain begins to interfere with your life. He’ll cover non-surgical approaches and when joint replacement may be considered, all with the goal of helping you return to the activities you love. A box lunch will be provided. Space is limited.
Fee: No fee
Time: Noon-1:30 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Card Making & Paper Crafts Club
TUESDAY, SEPT. 9 & WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 24
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
Canvas Acrylic Painting Class
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 10
Celebrate the season with Harvest Blue, a cheerful, modern twist on pumpkin painting. This beginner-friendly acrylic class offers step-bystep guidance in a relaxed, supportive setting. All materials are provided and you’ll leave with your finished artwork ready to display at home.
Fee: Member: $45, Nonmember: $52
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: Activity Room
Hearing Loss Facts & Solutions
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 10
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: 10-11:30 a.m.
Location: Classroom
Gardening Help Desk
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 10
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, SEPT. 11
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
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Jeopardy
THURSDAY, SEPT. 11
Join us for a Jeopardy-style trivia game featuring a mix of fun and challenging questions. Play on a team and compete for small prizes. It’s a great way to test your knowledge and enjoy some friendly competition. Light refreshments will be served.
Fee: Member: $2, Nonmember: $3
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Rooms 1 & 2
Abstract Watercolor Class
MONDAYS, SEPT. 15, 22 & 29
In this class, you’ll explore color, texture and markmaking in a relaxed, creative setting. Abstract watercolor is a painting style that emphasizes shapes, patterns and color over realistic images. No experience needed.
Fee: Member: $27, Nonmember: $32
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Activity Room
Caregiver Support Group
TUESDAY, SEPT. 16
This informal discussion group will provide valuable information to help you in your caregiving role for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. 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
Member Appreciation Ice Cream Truck
MONDAY, SEPT. 22
We appreciate all of our members so much. You make the center such a fun and invigorating place to be! To show our gratitude during Senior Center Month, we are treating everyone to a free ice cream from Best One Yet. After enjoying your ice cream, please attend the senior center membership meeting. Please register in MyActiveCenter so we know how many people to expect.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1-2 p.m.
Location: Parking lot
Membership Meeting
MONDAY, SEPT. 22
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. At this meeting we will accept nominations from the floor for the Friends Board of Directors and ideas for 2026 fundraising events.
Fee: No fee
Time: 2-3 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
DIY Halloween Door Round
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 24
Create a spooktacular entryway just in time for Halloween in this fun, hands-on class. You’ll design and decorate a festive door round to add seasonal charm to your home.
Fee: Member: $30, Nonmember: $34
Time: 10 a.m.-noon
Location: Activity Room
Strong, Safe and Steady
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 24
Led by experienced occupational therapists, this educational talk will focus on practical strategies to reduce the risk of falls, particularly for older adults and individuals with mobility or balance challenges. Attendees will learn how to identify common fall hazards in the home and community, improve strength and balance and use adaptive equipment effectively. If you’re looking to stay independent and safe, this session offers valuable insights and practical steps.
Fee: No fee
Time: 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Vaccine Clinic
FRIDAY, SEPT. 26
Vaccinations are essential in preventing severe health complications in older adults. Protect yourself by attending this fall flu vaccination clinic. The high dose flu vaccine is expected to be available. RSV, shingles and pneumonia vaccines will also be offered. Register at https:// www.safeway.com/vaccinations/group-clinic/ HRSC or scan the QR code.
Book Lovers Talk
FRIDAY, SEPT. 26
This lively discussion about newly released books, staff picks and more will be led by Lisa, community relations liaison for Douglas County Libraries.
Fee: No fee
Time: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Location: Classroom
Fall Succulent Arranging
FRIDAY, SEPT. 26
Learn how to propagate succulent plants while making a festive fall-themed centerpiece. Materials will be provided.
Fee: Member: $14, Nonmember: $16
Time: 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Location: Activity Room
Find resources at expo
SATURDAY, SEPT. 27; 9 A.M.-NOON
Invite your loved ones and friends to the Older Adult Health and Resource Expo. No registration is required, and the event is free to attend. Each expo offers different vendors from the previous one, 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.
Art History Lecture
TUESDAY, SEPT. 30
Fee: No fee, but please use the link or QR code to register.
Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Location: Multipurpose Room 2
Learn about the Hudson River School, one of the first art movements to showcase what makes America unique.
Fee: Member: $5, Nonmember: $6
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Location: Activity Room
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
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.
8-10 a.m. Walking Club Meet in front of the main entrance at 8 a.m.
Suitable for all levels, including those with limited mobility.
Requires the ability to transition comfortably from the floor to standing.
Learn the essential principles of drawing.
you are just learning bridge, or played years ago, this is perfect for you.
skill levels are welcome to play this fun and social game.
ONGOING CLASSES & GAMES
ONGOING CLASSES & GAMES
card game involving combinations for points and strategy.
Thursdays
Euchre
this fun Midwestern game of trump.
BE INVOLVED
Friends of the Highlands Ranch
Senior Center Board meetings
The Friends September board meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 2 and Monday, Sept. 15 from 9 - 11 a.m. Join us to learn about the various fundraising events we are working on and to ask questions or provide input on Friends activities. We welcome all members to attend.
Volunteers needed for craft fair
Many volunteers are needed to make our first craft fair a success. Opportunities are posted in HelperHelper. If you are interested in assisting with the event, but do not have a HelperHelper account, please see Lyndsey George.
King Soopers fundraiser
The Friends has partnered with King Soopers through the Community Rewards Program. Simply go to your account at kingsoopers.com, select Community Rewards and then search for the Friends under “Find an Organization.” Select “Enroll” and you are all set. A percentage of every transaction will be donated to the Friends. More information can be found on the Friends’ website at friendsofthehrsc.org.
Volunteer opportunities
There are many ways to contribute your time and talents to the senior center. HelperHelper is the software we use to display all the opportunities available. Please see Lyndsey George to get an account, or fill out the form at highlandsranch.org/recreation/senior-centervolunteers.
Contact information
Website: friendsofhrsc.org
Email: friendshrseniorcenter@gmail.com
Phone: 720-468-4825
September Friends luncheon
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 10
Time: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Fee: $15 per person
Kick off Oktoberfest as you listen to Steve Rock and his polka band and enjoy brats, sauerkraut, warm German potato salad, fruit and dessert.
This festive luncheon is sponsored by Ryan Palkoner from Epic Physical Therapy, epicptco.com. Payment must be received by Friday, Sept. 5. 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.
Friends Western Roundup
Date: Thursday, Sept. 25
Time: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Fee: $8 per person
Hee haw! Enjoy a fun chuck wagon lunch and dress in western attire. After lunch, sing along with the center’s Strings and Things club at 1 p.m. Menu items include a pulled pork sandwich, baked beans, coleslaw, brownie and choice of water, iced tea or lemonade. Pay at front desk by Friday, Sept. 19.
Friends Board of Directors elections
Nominations are being received for the following positions on the 2026-2027 Friends Board of Directors:
• President
• First vice president
• Second vice president
• Treasurer
• Secretary
• Members at large - 3 positions
If you are interested in running, please pick up an application in the hallway and return it by Friday, Sept. 19.
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.highlandsranchsc or use the QR code.
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 the classes you can take, including:
• Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): What You Need to Know
• Giving Back: Top Volunteer Programs for Older Adults
• Must-Have Dishes for Your Labor Day Celebration
• How to Cut Your Monthly Costs with Senior Benefits.
• Fall Appetizers That Will Wow Your Guests
Do you know someone who could use a helping hand?
Cherry Hills Community Church in Highlands Ranch is organizing its annual Love Extended event, a special day of service from 1-4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 5.
Love Extended is a community outreach event where volunteers from the church come together to offer practical help to individuals and families in need—focusing specifically on outdoor projects like yard work, light landscaping, small repairs or general clean-up.
While they are unable to do any work inside the home, their goal is to bless homeowners with a
safer, cleaner and more welcoming outdoor space.
They are currently looking for homes to serve—and they’d love your help!
If you or someone you know could benefit from a few helping hands outside the house, consider nominating a home by visiting tinyurl.com/zsvfm2hh.
Share the home’s information, and the Cherry Hills team will follow up to learn more about the need and confirm selected homes for the Oct. 5 event.
DAY AND EXTENDED 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.
Fee: Member: $155, Nonmember: $180
Time: 12-5:30 p.m.
Location: Bus leaves from parking lot
Exploring Britain and Ireland Trip
MONDAY, MAY 11 - MONDAY, MAY 25, 2026
Phantom of the Opera Trip
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.
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.
