CONNECTIONS
AGE WELL. LIVE WELL. VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: JENNIFER GILLIAM Finding Community at The Center at ACCA
FALL 2026
WELCOME TO THE CENTER AT ACCA!
The trusted organization you've known for nearly 60 years has a new name—and a vision that reflects today's older adults. When The Golden Girls premiered in 1985, Blanche, Rose, Dorothy, and Sophia helped shape how many people pictured growing older. The funny part? The actresses playing those iconic characters were between 51 and 63 years old. Today, someone in their 50s or 60s might be learning pickleball, planning their next trip, volunteering, caring for aging parents, launching a second career, or finally making time for something they’ve always wanted to try. Aging as we once knew it is changing. We’re changing with it.
Jennifer Gilliam came to The Center at ACCA looking for a line dancing class. What she found was so much more. After retiring in early 2023 and spending several years as the primary caregiver for her father, Jennifer was ready to reconnect, meet new people, and try something new. She signed up for Beginner Line Dancing, but it wasn’t long before The Center at ACCA became more than a place to learn new steps. It became a place where she built friendships, discovered new opportunities, and found a true sense of community.
Since 1967, the Athens Community Council on Aging has been a trusted resource for older adults, families, and caregivers across Northeast Georgia, providing essential services from Meals on Wheels and transportation to care coordination, caregiver support, and dementia resources. Over the years, we’ve grown into something more: a place to learn, create, stay active, make friends, find support, and discover new possibilities. That’s why we’re excited to introduce The Center at ACCA. Our new name reflects who we’ve become: a vibrant community hub for a new generation of older adults, bringing together dynamic programming and essential services. Here, you can thrive, connect, create, learn, and travel while exploring what's next. While our name and look are changing, our mission and commitment are not. We’ll continue providing the trusted support our community has counted on for nearly 60 years while creating new opportunities to live well and stay connected.
Welcome to The Center at ACCA. Aging Reimagined.
Today, Jennifer attends Intermediate Line Dancing several times a week, where she’s formed friendships that extend well beyond the dance floor. One of those friendships began with a simple introduction in class. Jennifer met fellow member Gwen, only to discover they lived in the same neighborhood. The two quickly became close friends, supporting one another both at ACCA and in everyday life. And before long, Jennifer found another way to get involved. Continued on page 6
Inside Membership • 2 Fall Programs • 3–6 Travel Opportunities • 3 Community Dining • 7
Membership 135 Hoyt St. | Athens, GA 30601 (706) 549-4850 | accaging.org Monday–Thursday: 8:00 am–4:30 pm Friday: 8:00 am–3:00 pm
ABOUT THE CENTER AT ACCA Founded in 1967 as the Athens Community Council on Aging, The Center at ACCA has grown alongside our community for nearly six decades. Today, we’re a vibrant community hub for older adults and those who support them, bringing together opportunities to thrive, connect, create, learn, and travel, with trusted support for every stage of aging. As aging continues to change, we’re evolving with it, creating more ways for people to stay connected, find support, and explore what’s next.
Active Living at The Center at ACCA is all about staying engaged, trying new things, and finding your people. Membership opens the door to classes, social gatherings, creative experiences, travel opportunities, and plenty of ways to stay active and connected. Whether you’re looking to meet new people, learn something new, move more, or simply see what’s happening, there’s a place for you here.
What's Included As a member, you gain access to programs that support physical well-being, lifelong learning, creativity, travel, and connection. Everything we offer is designed to feel welcoming, engaging, and worth coming back to. Thrive Stay active and feel your best through wellness-focused programs like line dancing, Smart Moves, Mat Pilates, yoga, and walking groups. Activities are designed to be supportive, accessible, and energizing. Connect Build meaningful friendships through bridge, mahjongg, dining club outings, happy hours, and community celebrations. Membership means having something to look forward to each week.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Christina Moore Grace Bagwell Adams Jonathan Hogan Chuck Williams Michael Seibert
Chair Vice Chair Treasurer Secretary Immediate Past Chair
Wes Baumgartner Lori Carroll Elaine Cook Elaine Douglas Tyler Jefcoat Wendy Jones
Aubrey Miller Jerkins Parker Morgan Lisa Renzi-Hammond Jonathan Wentworth Carol Williams
AGENCY LEADERSHIP Eve Anthony President/CEO Leslie Trier VP/Director of Operations Nita Norris Director of Personnel Valerie Kimbrough Director of Development Courtney Medders Director of Marketing and Communications Ali Bill Executive Administrator Diana Espero Director of Active Living Cam Harper Director of Food & Essential Services Jenna Moon Director of Care Coordination Keisha Ryals Director of Supportive Services
For more news, follow us on social media: @accaging 2
Create Explore your creative side through hands-on workshops like candle
making, scrapbooking, and art classes. No experience required. Just curiosity. Learn Keep your mind engaged with educational workshops and practical classes, including estate planning, plant medicine, safe driving courses, and more. Travel Experience new destinations and make lasting memories on group trips. From international adventures to regional getaways, travel together builds connection long before the journey ends.
Come Discover Something New! Curious about Active Living? New visitors are welcome to experience a few programs before becoming a member. It’s an easy way to explore what interests you, meet new people, and experience The Center at ACCA for yourself.
Ready to Get Started? Interested in joining or learning more? Stop by for a New Member Orientation. Every Wednesday | 10:00-11:00 am Questions about membership? Contact Kelsey Rollins at 706-549-4850 or krollins@accaging.org.
Programs LEARN MY HEALTHY KITCHEN: A NUTRITION EDUCATION SERIES Presented by The Center at ACCA and UGA Extension
Thursday, October 1: Fall Soup Session Thursday, October 15: Healthy Bones Education 10:00-11:15 AM UGA Extension 275 Cleveland Rd., Bogart GA FREE for Members | $10 for NonMembers Join Brad Averill for hands-on nutrition education, practical cooking techniques, and simple recipes that make healthy eating enjoyable and achievable.
State Health Insurance Assistance Program counselors will be available to answer questions and provide free, unbiased, local Medicare counseling.
LEARN TO PLAY BRIDGE WITH THE GRAND SLAMMERS! 1st and 3rd Fridays 10:00am-12:00 pm
Have you ever wanted to know how to play the game of bridge? Come join some long-standing members of our Grand Slammers Bridge Club to learn all about the game!
TRAVEL TECH 101: PHONES, APPS AND THE INTERNET Monday, November 2, 2026 12:00-1:00 pm
Learn how to browse the internet, safely use Wi-Fi, book transportation, navigate with maps, use airline apps, call Uber or Lyft, track rewards points, and make the most of today's travel technology.
TRAVEL ARTS + HEALTH LABORATORY: WINTERVILLE CONVENING
Thursday, October 8, 2026 10:00 am-12:30 pm Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture (373 N Church St. Winterville, GA 30683) Join community leaders, artists, researchers, and advocates, including Eve Anthony, President & CEO of The Center at ACCA, for a conversation exploring the role of the arts in healthy aging and lifelong well-being. Register at winterville-neuroarts.eventbrite.com.
DEMENTIA 101
Monday, October 12 3:00-4:00 pm Learn the basics of Alzheimer's and other dementias, including common signs and symptoms, screening and diagnosis, treatment and care, communication and caregiving strategies, and resources available through The Dementia Resource at The Center at ACCA. RSVP online, call 706-549-4850 or email krollins@accaging.org
Discover new places, create lasting memories, and experience the joy of traveling in community. Whether you're looking for a local day trip, a short getaway, an unforgettable domestic adventure, or the trip of a lifetime abroad, Travel with the Center at ACCA offers thoughtfully curated experiences designed for active adults who love to explore.
DISCOVER: LOCAL DAY TRIPS GEORGIA SAFARI CONSERVATION PARK: GUIDED WILDLIFE TOUR
Wednesday, October 7 Depart The Center at 9:30 am | Return approx. 1:30 pm Georgia Safari Conservation Park (1761 Monticello Rd., Madison, GA) $70 members | $80 non-members Includes transportation and guided safari tour. Lunch is self-pay. Get ready for a wildly memorable adventure at Georgia Safari Conservation Park! Climb aboard a guided safari vehicle and journey through open pastures where zebras, giraffes, rhinos, antelope, and other animals roam freely. After the safari, enjoy lunch at Farmview Market. Online registration required.
DESOTO FALLS SCENIC HIKE
MEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT PRESENTATION WITH LOUISE PLATTER, BENEFITS COUNSELING COORDINATOR
Wednesday, November 4 Depart The Center at 9:30 am | Return approx. 1:30 pm DeSoto Falls Recreation Area (18635 U.S. Hwy. 129, Cleveland, GA) $70 members | $80 non-members
Medicare Open Enrollment for 2027 runs October 15–December 7. Join us to learn about Medicare changes, red flags to watch for, and how to make informed choices about your coverage.
Spend a day in the North Georgia mountains hiking to beautiful DeSoto Falls. This easy-to-moderate, 2-mile roundtrip trail winds through the forest and along rushing mountain waters before reaching the falls. After the hike, enjoy lunch at Riverside Tavern at Turner’s Corner. Online registration required.
Friday, October 30 10:00-11:00am
DISCOVER THE KING CENTER & HISTORIC SWEET AUBURN
Wednesday, November 18 Depart The Center at 8:00 am | Return approx. 4:00 pm The King Center & Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park-Atlanta, GA $80 members | $90 non-members Includes transportation and guided group visit. Lunch is self-pay. Explore Atlanta’s Historic Sweet Auburn District, including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, The King Center, Freedom Hall, and other significant sites. Enjoy lunch on your own at the historic Sweet Auburn Curb Market. Online registration required
ESCAPE: SHORT GETAWAYS HARRAH’S CHEROKEE CASINO GETAWAY
February 23–24, 2027 Cherokee, NC $265 double occupancy | $325 single occupancy; $50 deposit due at registration.
Escape to the mountains for an overnight getaway at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort. Enjoy casino fun, dining, shopping, and plenty of time to relax at your own pace. Trip includes one-night hotel accommodations, private shuttle transportation, driver gratuities, taxes, resort and luggage handling fees, and a staff-guided experience. Meals are on your own. Travel protection is available for an additional fee. Single accommodations are limited. To register, contact Autumn Dodson at abarefoot@accaging.org or 706-5494850.
EXPERIENCE: DOMESTIC ADVENTURES THE ARK ENCOUNTER & CREATION MUSEUM Monday, October 4– Friday, October 8, 2027 $784 double occupancy | $884 single occupancy; $75 deposit due at registration
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flight of stairs, board a motorcoach, and comfortably handle elevations up to 5,000 feet. RSVP to Autumn Dodson at abarefoot@ accaging.org or 706-549-4850.
JOURNEY: INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCES
Experience northern Kentucky on a fiveday, four-night getaway featuring the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum. Visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, cruise the Ohio River aboard BB Riverboats, and enjoy a dinner party with live entertainment. Trip includes deluxe motorcoach transportation, four nights lodging in Cincinnati, four breakfasts, four dinners, and bus driver gratuities.
DISCOVER ROME, SORRENTO & THE AMALFI COAST April 10–18, 2027 Rome • Sorrento • The Amalfi Coast $5,999 double occupancy | $7,599 single occupancy; $698 deposit due at registration.
December 9–21, 2027 O‘ahu • Big Island • Maui • Kauai $7,899 double occupancy | $10,199 single occupancy; $698 deposit due at registration.
Experience the beauty, culture, and unforgettable landscapes of Hawaii on a 13-day journey across four incredible islands. From historic landmarks and volcanic landscapes to lush valleys, dramatic coastlines, and beautiful beaches, each island offers something new to discover. Begin on O‘ahu with Pearl Harbor and Iolani Palace before traveling to the Big Island to explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Experience a traditional luau and lei-making class, take in Maui’s Iao Valley, and discover Kauai’s breathtaking Waimea Canyon. Cruise the Wailua River, enjoy memorable island experiences, and have time to relax, explore, shop, and soak in paradise at your own pace. Includes roundtrip airfare from Atlanta, three inter-island flights, accommodations, transportation, tours, attraction fees, and 17 meals. Travel protection is $429 and must be purchased at registration. Register by June 7, 2027, for the advertised rate. Final payment due September 8, 2027. Activity Level: Designed for the leisurely traveler. Participants should be able to walk unassisted at a relaxed pace for up to 60 minutes, climb at least one 4
HOLIDAY CANDLE MAKING
Monday, October 5 1:00–3:00 pm (8825 Jefferson River Rd., Athens, GA) $22 members | $28 non-members Includes guided instruction and all tools and materials. Join local Athens business owner Beth Hughes of Little Light Co. for a handson holiday candle-making class. Bring your own container or choose one on site, select your favorite scents, and pour a custom candle to take home. No experience needed, just come ready to create. Online registration required.
GETTING ARTSY AT ACCA
Third Monday of each month; 3:00–4:00 pm • October 19 • November 16 • December 21
Travel protection available for $72 per person. Final payment due July 28, 2027.
GRAND HAWAIIAN ADVENTURE: ISLAND HOPPING THROUGH PARADISE
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Experience the history, flavors, and breathtaking scenery of southern Italy on a nine-day journey through Rome, Sorrento, and the Amalfi Coast. From ancient landmarks and lively piazzas to cliffside villages overlooking the Mediterranean, this adventure blends iconic destinations with memorable local experiences. Begin in Rome, where centuries of history come to life at landmarks including the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. Travel south to explore the remarkably preserved ruins of Pompeii before settling into the coastal beauty of Sorrento. Along the way, experience Italy through its food and traditions with a visit to a local winery and a hands-on cooking class. Take to the water for a scenic cruise along the spectacular Amalfi Coast, with stops in the colorful seaside towns of Positano and Amalfi. Enjoy time to take in sweeping coastal views, sample local flavors, and experience the relaxed pace and unmistakable character of southern Italy. Trip includes roundtrip airfare from Atlanta, accommodations, transportation and transfers, guided tours and attraction fees, and 11 meals. Travel protection available for $549 per person and must be purchased at registration. Register by October 5, 2026, to guarantee the advertised rate. Final payment due January 4, 2027. Activity Level: This is an active trip requiring extended walking and standing, several miles of walking per day, stairs, hills, and getting in and out of various modes of transportation. Not recommended for travelers requiring mobility assistance devices.
Get creative with local artist Sue Lappan during this monthly hands-on art class. Sue works across painting, sewing, puppeteering, quilting, and more, bringing something different to the table each month. Explore a variety of materials and techniques in a relaxed, welcoming setting where creativity is the goal. Whether you’re an experienced maker or haven’t picked up a paintbrush in years, come learn a new skill, try something different, and enjoy making art together.
CAPTURED CONVERSATIONS
Thursdays by appointment One-hour sessions UGA Extension Studio (275 Cleveland Rd., Bogart, GA 30622) $50 per session Everyone has stories worth keeping. Captured Conversations is a relaxed, professionally recorded experience where you can share your memories, life lessons, and meaningful moments in a guided conversation designed to feel natural and comfortable. Each session is led by an award-winning radio personality with more than 20 years of interviewing experience. Come on your own or bring one guest, such as a spouse, child, grandchild, or close friend. No preparation is needed. Afterward, you’ll receive a professionally recorded digital keepsake to share with your family for generations. Email Diana Espero at despero@ accaging.org to book your session.
CONNECT THE CENTER AT ACCA OPEN HOUSE Tuesday, October 6 11:00 am–2:00 pm The Center at ACCA (135 Hoyt St., Athens, GA) Come celebrate a new chapter at ACCA! Be among the first to experience The Center at ACCA, tour our refreshed space, enjoy food and activities, meet our team, and discover new ways to thrive, connect, create, learn, and travel. Free and open to the community. HAPPY HOUR First Thursday of each month; 5:00 pm •October 1: Poquito’s (195 Prince Ave.) •November 5: Fully Loaded Normaltown (1298 Prince Ave.) •December 3: The Globe (199 N. Lumpkin St.) Meet up for cocktails, mocktails, conversation, and a fun evening out with friends. Meals and drinks are self-pay.
a Thanksgiving celebration filled with good food, gratitude, and plenty of bingo fun before lunch. Sign up with Kelsey at (706) 549-4850 or stop by the office. ACTIVE LIVING HOLIDAY PARTY Tuesday, December 15 11:00 am–1:00 pm Celebrate the season with music, good food, festive games, and friends! Sign up for a potluck spot with Kelsey at (706) 549-4850 or krollins@accaging. org. NOON YEAR’S EVE Thursday, December 31 10:30 am–12:30 pm We’re counting down to the New Year, just a little earlier! Wear your most festive New Year’s look and celebrate with sparkling beverages, treats, games, and friends. BOARD GAMES & PUZZLES Every Monday 2:00 pm Choose a game or puzzle from our collection or bring a favorite from home. Pull up a chair, meet some new people, and join the fun!
Good food is even better with good company. Meet us at a different local restaurant each month for dinner, conversation, and an easy night out with friends. Meals are self-pay and carpooling is encouraged. Reservations required. Register at myactivecenter.com or call 706-5494850. VFW BINGO Fourth Tuesday of each month; 10:00 am The Center at ACCA Free to play | Lunch: $10 members | $2 Community Diners Join us for bingo with our friends from the VFW, plenty of laughs, prizes, and a little friendly competition. Stay for lunch and make a morning of it! RSVP by the Friday prior at despero@ accaging.org or register online. FRIENDSGIVING BINGO Tuesday, November 24 11:00 am–1:00 pm
A welcoming space for people experiencing dementia, memory loss, or cognitive change, no diagnosis required. Share, connect, and build community with others on a similar journey. Lunch is provided. RSVP to Kellye Morgan at kmorgan@accaging.org or 706-5494850. DEMENTIA SUPPORT IN WINDER Fourth Wednesday of each month 12:00–1:00 pm Northeast Georgia Medical Center Barrow (316 N. Broad St., Winder, GA) Care partners are invited to connect, share, and find support with others navigating the dementia journey. While the group meets, Music for the Mind provides a meaningful activity for loved ones experiencing cognitive change. RSVP to Kellye Morgan at kmorgan@ accaging.org or 706-549-4850. DEMENTIA LUNCH SUPPORT GROUP Second Wednesday of each month 11:30 am-1:00 pm
Learn the game, sharpen your skills, and enjoy a little friendly competition with a new group of friends.
Connect with other care partners over lunch at restaurants in and around Athens. This informal gathering offers an easy opportunity to socialize, share experiences, and enjoy time with people who understand the caregiving journey. Participants pay for their own lunch. RSVP to Kellye Morgan at kmorgan@ accaging.org or 706-549-4850.
MAHJONGG Every Wednesday 1:30–3:30 pm
DEMENTIA CARE PARTNER SUPPORT GROUP Third Tuesday of each month 12:00-1:30 pm
POKER WITH PALS Every Tuesday 1:00–2:30 pm SUPPER CLUB Third Wednesday of each month; 5:00 pm •October 21: Emmy Squared (199 Prince Ave.) •November 18: Sakura Japanese Steakhouse (3357 Atlanta Hwy.) •December 16: ZZ & Simone’s (1540 S. Lumpkin St., Suite 4)
A NEW CHAPTER First Wednesday of each month 12:00-1:00 pm
Join fellow players for Mahjongg, a popular tile game combining skill, strategy, calculation, and a little bit of chance.
Connect with fellow care partners, learn from aging professionals, and share experiences in a supportive community. Lunch is provided. Please let us know about any dietary restrictions. RSVP to Kellye Morgan at kmorgan@accaging. org or 706-549-4850. WINTERVILLE MEANINGFUL MOMENTS Third Friday of each month 11:00 am-12:30 pm Winterville Cultural Center (371 N. Church St., Winterville, GA)
GRAND SLAMMERS BRIDGE CLUB Every Thursday 1:00–4:00 pm Intermediate bridge players are invited to join the Grand Slammers for an afternoon of cards, conversation, and friendly competition.
Meaningful Moments is a welcoming memory café for people living with dementia or cognitive change and their care partners. Enjoy social connection, therapeutic and creative activities, and time together in a judgment-free space. RSVP to Kellye Morgan at kmorgan@ accaging.org or 706-549-4850.
Contact Ann Somerville at 315-534-0455 for more information or to RSVP.
Gather around the table with friends for 5
THRIVE MAT PILATES WITH KIM ETHRIDGE Mondays 11:00–11:50 am $5 members | $7 non-members Build core strength and improve posture in this gentle, supportive Pilates class. All levels are welcome, with modifications provided to help you move comfortably and confidently. CAL WALKING GROUP Every Tuesday 10:30-11:30 am First United Methodist Church Walk with friends at the First United Methodist Church indoor track, with special outings to parks, trails, and other locations around Athens and Oconee on the fourth Tuesday of each month. October 27: Dudley Park November 24: Firefly Trail in Winterville December 22: Georgia Square Mall GET STRONG WITH SANDY Mondays & Fridays 1:30–2:20 pm Build strength, balance, and coordination through weight training combined with elements of yoga, tai chi, and Pilates. Choose the weight and intensity that work for you, with exercises that can be done seated or standing.
who prefers to move while seated. BEGINNER LINE DANCING WITH VIVIAN Every Thursday 2:00–2:50 pm New to line dancing? Learn the basic steps and build your confidence in this welcoming introductory class designed for newer dancers. SMART MOVES WITH BECKY Every Thursday 3:00–3:50 pm Build strength, balance, and flexibility in this low-impact, full-body workout using free weights and medicine balls. Exercises can be performed seated or standing and are appropriate for a variety of fitness levels. MUSIC FOR THE MIND Tuesdays & Thursdays 11:00 am–12:00 pm Join neurological music therapist Amanda Martin for a music, rhythm, and connection-based class exploring a wide range of genres, eras, and artists. Engage the mind, move the body, express yourself, build coping skills, and connect with others through music. RSVP to Kellye Morgan at (706) 549-4850 or kmorgan@accaging.org.
FEEL BETTER YOGA WITH ELIZABETH Every Tuesday 2:30–3:20 pm $5 members | $7 non-members Breathe better, improve flexibility, and bring more balance and less stress into your day. Elizabeth Alder, CYT, brings 30 years of teaching experience to this easygoing yoga class designed to be accessible and enjoyable. INTERMEDIATE LINE DANCING WITH LINDA Tuesdays & Thursdays 1:00–1:50 pm; Wednesdays 10:00–10:50 am Keep your mind and body moving with an eclectic mix of music and step-bystep instruction. This upbeat class is a fun way to build coordination, stay active, and dance with friends.
DANCE FITNESS WITH PAT Every Wednesday 2:00–2:50 pm Let the music move you! This fun, energizing class helps improve core strength, coordination, stamina, and balance. Chairs are available for anyone 6
friendly exercises focused on core support, posture, and hip engagement. Flowing movements build strength, balance, coordination, and endurance at a comfortable pace. RSVP to Kellye Morgan at (706) 549-4850 or kmorgan@ accaging.org. ADAPTIVE GOLF Fourth Wednesday of each month 10:00 am–12:00 pm University of Georgia Golf Course Free Offered by the Georgia State Golf Association and UGA Golf Course, this adaptive program helps people with physical, cognitive, or sensory impairments enjoy the game in a welcoming environment. Register at gsga.org/adaptive and select “University of Georgia Golf Course (Athens)"
ATHENS MOVEMENT COLLECTIVE Every Friday 11:00–11:50 am Move, connect, and feel your best in this weekly class led by UGA pre-med students. Designed with Parkinson’s health in mind and open to everyone, it combines movement, healthy habits, and community. Free for all to attend. Register at myactivecenter.com or call Kelsey Rollins at (706) 549-4850.
CONNECTED IN MOVEMENT Every Monday 1:30–2:30 pm Join personal trainer Adam Swartz for guided movement, mobility, and mindfulness to build strength, flexibility, balance, and body awareness in a gentle, dementia-friendly environment. RSVP to Kellye Morgan at (706) 5494850 or kmorgan@accaging.org DRUMMING WITH DR. ARVIN SCOTT Every Wednesday except the second Wednesday of the month 11:00 am-12:00 pm Make some noise with therapeutic drumming facilitator and retired music professor Dr. Arvin Scott. This dementiafriendly class uses rhythm to encourage movement, well-being, and social connection. RSVP to Kellye Morgan at (706) 549-4850 or kmorgan@accaging. org.
CONTINUED FROM COVER Since June 2024, a date she proudly has marked on her calendar, Jennifer has been a dedicated volunteer alongside her son, Jared. Together, they’re familiar faces at Mobile Food Pantry packing events and the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Summer Grocery Program, always ready to lend a hand wherever it’s needed. Service has always been part of Jennifer’s life. Her career included roles as a Special Education teacher and Registered Respiratory Therapist, and she credits her parents with inspiring her passion for helping others.
GET ACTIVE WITH ADAM Second & fourth Friday of each month 11:00 am-12:00 pm
Whether she’s packing groceries, learning a new dance, or encouraging someone to try a class, Jennifer is a reminder that people often come to The Center at ACCA for one reason but stay because of the connections they make. When asked what keeps bringing her back, her answer was simple: “It’s the people.”
Build on the skills developed in Connected in Movement with dementia-
We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.
CONNECTED BY COMMUNITY Celebrating the people, programs, and events that keep our community connected.
Good Food, Good Company: Community Dining Creates Connections Around the Table Ms. Annette Carter can usually be found tending to the hydrangeas, hibiscus, and cactus in her all-organic garden or spending time with family. She’s also a longtime member of The Center at ACCA's Community Dining Program and was part of the program’s transition this spring to new dine-in experiences at local restaurants. At Chibugan in Winterville, Ms. Annette discovered something new at age 72: ube (OO-beh) cake. Made from purple yams, the Filipino dessert quickly became a favorite. In her words, it’s “absolutely delicious.” “I don’t just love the food,” Ms. Annette said. “The restaurant atmosphere makes you feel comfortable and welcome.” For Ms. Annette, Community Dining is about more than a meal. It’s a chance to try something new, spend time with friends, and find connection around the table.
Community Dining Opportunities
Adults 60+ living in Clarke County can enjoy meals at participating local restaurants for just $2 per meal. Registration required. AMICI AT THE FALLS • Tues–Fri | 11 am–3 pm CHIBUGAN • Tues–Fri | 8 am–3 pm NEWK’S BAXTER • Mon–Fri | 10:30 am–3 pm STRICKLAND’S • Mon–Fri | 8 am–2 pm BARBERITO'S FIVE POINTS (NEW Starting October 12!) • MonFri | 10:30 am-3 pm Ready to pull up a seat at the table? Call (706) 549-4850 or email krollins@accaging.org.
COMMUNITY CORNER Mondays & Wednesdays | 12:30–2:30 pm Meals on Wheels Lobby For adults 55+. Stop by for emergency food, pet food, diapers, household and hygiene essentials, durable medical equipment when available, SNAP and Athens Housing Authority application assistance, and more. Emergency food is limited to one bag per household per week. No appointment needed. Just stop by! BOOM BASH SENIOR EXPO Friday, October 30 | 10:00 am–2:00 pm Oconee County Civic Center (2661 Hog Mountain Road, Watkinsville) The Center at ACCA is proud to present Boom Bash alongside BOOM Athens! Explore 30+ vendors, health screenings, caregiving resources, wellness information, scam awareness, leisure opportunities, and more. Free to attend. Stop by and see us! Learn more at boomathens.com/boom-bash-seniorexpo-2026/ BE A SANTA TO A SENIOR WRAPPING PARTY Tuesday, December 8 | 5:00–9:00 pm Help make the holidays brighter for older neighbors at our annual Be a Santa to a Senior Wrapping Party! Join fellow volunteers to wrap thousands of gifts that will be delivered to older adults throughout our community. Come wrap with us and help spread a little holiday cheer! For more information, call (706) 549-4850 or email Ezra Schley at eschley@accaging.org.
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THANK YOU TO OUR REBRAND SPONSORS Armentrout Matheny Thurmond, P.C. (AMT) The Athens Printing Company Barberito's BED Creative Production CertaPro Painters Chibugan
STAY CONNECTED There's always something happening at The Center at ACCA. Call, email, or stop by any time—we love visitors! (706) 549-4850
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Dunkin' Golden Pantry Kaptiv8 Newk's Eatery Restore Pros The Sign Bros.
MAKE MORE POSSIBLE. Your gift provides meals, support, connection, and opportunities for our older neighbors.
OF FIND YOUR PLACE HERE ( .–May 31, 2026)
There’s no one way to make a difference. Find a volunteer opportunity that fits your interests, your schedule, and how you want to give back: accaging.org/volunteer
COME DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW Thrive, connect, create, learn, and travel with programs designed for living well. Explore what’s happening at accaging.org
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Thrive • Connect • Create • Learn • Travel