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Senior Center Newsletter April 2026

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STAY INFORMED

Membership renewals

Be sure to keep track of your membership renewal date so you are not charged nonmember fees during registration. If you do not see the member discount when you are registering for a program, please do not proceed. If you end up paying the nonmember rate, you will not be refunded the difference between the member and nonmember rate after you renew. To receive the member rate, your membership must be valid through all program dates, not just the first one in a series. To renew, call Cindy at 303-791-2416 or visit the senior center.

Thanks to Ron for his hard work

Ron Bowman, our morning facility services technician, has been doing double duty while we have been short staffed. We appreciate his willingness to work extended hours and come in on weekends to make sure the building is clean and stocked for all users. You are awesome!

Brownies bring treats for Valentine’s Day

Brownie Troop 65436 donated more than 200 roses to the Valentine’s Party. In addition, Brownie Troop 66434 sold Girl Scout cookies at the center that day and appreciated how supportive the members were to the cause. Nancy and Jack Greenley also donated many boxes of Girl Scout cookies to the senior center for members to enjoy. Thank you to everyone for your thoughtfulness.

Be aware of fragrance sensitivity

Please keep in mind that wearing perfume or cologne may cause irritation to your fellow members and staff. Please limit your fragrance use when you visit the senior center. Fragrance sensitivity occurs due to irritation of the respiratory tract or mucous membranes of the eyes. It can be triggered by:

• Perfumes and colognes

• Body lotions

• Soaps

• Powders

• Air Fresheners

• Detergents

• Fabric softeners

• Cigarette smoke

• Flowers

NEWSLETTER & GUIDE

APRIL 2026

Staff

Jill Hall, Senior Services Manager

Lyndsey George, Guest Services and Volunteer Coordinator

Katie Ireland, Fitness and Enrichment Coordinator

Corrin Godar, Health and Resource Coordinator

Cindy Galligan, Front Desk & Membership Clerk

Ron Bowman Facility Services Technician Hours

Monday, Wednesday & Friday

8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Tuesday & Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday 8:30 a.m. - noon

Connect with us

Facebook:

@HighlandsRanchSeniorCenter Website: highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter

Email: seniorcenterinfo@highlandsranch.org Phone:

303-791-2416

Suggestion box in lobby

We welcome your suggestions, compliments and complaints.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

Registration is required for all events, programs and activities — including free programs. Registered participants have priority over drop-ins. The refund policy can be found at highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter.

• Registration can be done at highlandsranch.org/myactivecenter or the front desk.

• Evening and weekend classes are shown with a shaded box.

• Early registration is encouraged so programs are not canceled due to low attendance.

• For the most up-to-date information about programs and events, please visit MyActiveCenter. Canceled classes will be removed from MyActiveCenter.

Please note: For all programs, nonmembers will need to purchase a day pass to enter the center.

Understanding Your Hips:

Prevention to Replacement Lunch & Learn

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1

Dr. Joshua Shapiro, an orthopedic surgeon at Panorama Orthopedics, will discuss how to keep your hips healthy and what to know when hip pain starts interfering with your life. He’ll cover prevention, long-term joint health and practical ways to support hip mobility over time. He’ll also explain what to expect if hip replacement becomes part of the conversation, including how patients are evaluated, how the procedure works and what recovery and return to activity can look like. Lunch will be served to registered participants.

Fee: No fee

Time: Noon-1 p.m.

Location: Multipurpose Room 1

Apple One-on-One Technology Support

MONDAYS, APRIL 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29

In this free 45-minute session with Mark, our computer consultant who specializes in Apple solutions, you will get answers to your iPhone, iPad or Mac computer questions. Please bring your device. Appointments are available on a first-come, first-served basis at registration.

Fee: No fee; appointment required

Time: 1-4 p.m.

Location: Meeting Room

Bingo

THURSDAY, APRIL 2 & TUESDAY, APRIL 21

Spend the afternoon with us playing bingo. Daubers can be purchased at the door for $1.50.

Fee: No fee

Time: 12:45-3 p.m.

Location: Multipurpose Room 2

Stepping On: A Fall Prevention Series

THURSDAYS, APRIL 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30

This seven-week evidence-based program is proven to reduce falls. It covers a range of issues, including fall risk, strength and balance exercises, home hazards, safe footwear, vision and falls, safety in public places, community mobility, coping after a fall and understanding how to initiate a medication review. Must have attended March sessions.

Fee: No fee

Time: 1-3 p.m.

Location: Classroom

One-on-One Technology Support

FRIDAYS, APRIL 3, 10, 17, 24

In this free 45-minute session with Eileen, a retired technology librarian, you can ask a computer question or get help with a computer problem (nonapple products only). Please bring your computer if possible.

Fee: No fee; appointment required

Time: 9 a.m.-noon

Location: Meeting Room

FITNESS CLASSES

8:45-9:45 a.m. Zumba Gold

A fun, low-impact dance fitness class designed for older adults or beginners looking for an enjoyable way to stay active.

10 -11 a.m. Tai Chi - Int. Improve your balance, vitality and core strength with mindfulness.

a.m.12:15 p.m. Cardio Circuit

upper body strength work with low-impact cardio.

CLUBS & GAMES

Register and view full class descriptions at highlandsranch.org/myactivecenter.

Registration: All clubs and games require registration. Contact Lyndsey George at lgeorge@highlandsranch.org or 720-468-4824 with questions.

8-10 a.m. Walking Club

Mondays

1-4 p.m.

1:30-3 p.m. (1st & 3rd Mon.)

2-3:30

Mon.)

Join us for a refreshing three-mile walk starting at the Diamond K Trailhead, just off the senior center parking lot.

If you are just learning bridge, or played years ago, this is perfect for you.

Pick up bocce balls and game rules at the front desk, then head outside for fresh air, exercise and friendly competition. Bocce Courts N/A

Play the classic tile-based game.

Dance Focus on building skill, confidence and connection while having fun.

Each month brings a new title from different genres and a chance to share thoughtful conversation in a relaxed setting.

Enjoy discussing the monthly book with others who love to read and discuss books each month.

Tuesdays

& 4th Tues.)

2-3:30 p.m. (3rd Tues.) Caregiver Support Group

This fast-paced social dice game is easy to learn and fun to play.

experience levels.

This informal discussion group provides valuable information to help you in your caregiving role.

No experience is required—just bring your curiosity and enjoy learning a classic game with others.

CLUBS & GAMES

9:30 a.m.1 p.m.

1-3:30 p.m.

Wednesdays

1-3:30 p.m. (1st Wed.)

1-4 p.m.

Bridge - Party Play with fellow enthusiasts.

Needle Arts Club

Strings & Things

MahjongNational

2-4 p.m. Book Club

8:45-10 a.m. (2nd Thurs.) Veterans Coffee Chat

8:45-10 a.m. (3rd Thurs. alt. months)

Pup & Cup Coffee Chat

9:30-11:30 a.m. Chess Club

Thursdays

9:30-11:30 a.m. Cribbage Club

10 a.m.noon (2nd Thurs.) Grief and Loss Support Group

Come together to share and practice various forms of needlework.

The Strings and Things Music Club is a social group for members who enjoy playing or singing and sharing it with others

Mahjong is a traditional Chinese tile-based game that combines skill, strategy and luck.

Each month brings a new title from different genres and a chance to share thoughtful conversation in a relaxed setting.

Room Miko H.

Room Ellen V.

Room Sally K.

1 Sharon A.

Join this informal morning coffee chat and make new friends with other veterans who have served our country. South Lobby N/A

Stop in for a cup of coffee and visit with Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Senior Resource Deputy Ryan Falkner and Leo.

Enjoy friendly games of chess in a welcoming, relaxed setting.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, our club offers a great opportunity to enjoy some friendly competition. Game Room N/A

This group is for individuals who have experienced the death of a loved one. Classroom N/A Noon4 p.m.

1-2 p.m. Line Dance Club

1-4 p.m. (1st & 3rd Thurs.) Board Games

1-4 p.m. Triple Play Canasta

Combine skill and strategy with a dash of luck.

Line dancing isn’t just country and Western—join us as we explore a variety of styles. MPR 2 Maureen H.

Play a variety of tablestop games with other enthusiasts. South Lobby Ida Mae C.

Triple Play is a challenging variation of Canasta.

CLUBS & GAMES

Thursdays

4:30-7 p.m. Bridge-Refresh

If you need a refresher on how to play bridge, or if you played years ago, this is a perfect time to hone your skills. Game Room N/A

Fridays

4:30-7 p.m. The Hobby Habit

9:30 a.m.noon Euchre Club

11 a.m.12:30 p.m. (3rd Fri.) Solo and Social Group

1-4 p.m. Beginner MahjongMilitary

1-4 p.m. Mexican Train Dominoes

Relax, be creative and work on your own projects—just bring any materials you need for activities like painting, drawing, scrapbooking, jewelry making or quilling.

Euchre is fun a trick-taking card game typically played with four players in two teams. Classroom DeLynn J.

This group is perfect for those looking to meet new people, build friendships and share experiences with others who are also single. Classroom Sally K.

Play this standardized Mahjong game. Game Room Sally K.

Play all of the dominoes from your hand before your opponents..

Hiking Club Interest Meeting

MONDAY, APRIL 6, 2-2:30 P.M.

Come learn about starting a Hiking Club at the senior center! This interest meeting is a chance to connect with fellow nature lovers, talk about favorite parks and trails and help plan enjoyable group hikes that focus on fresh air, scenic views and staying active together.

Room Karen M.

Bicycle Club Interest Meeting

MONDAY, APRIL 20, 10-10:30 A.M.

Join us for a Bicycle Club interest meeting to connect with others who enjoy biking and learn about forming a group for casual rides, exercise and social time. This meeting will give you a chance to share ideas, discuss ride levels and routes and help shape a fun cycling group for the senior center community.

BE INVOLVED

Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center

Join the Friends for upcoming board and membership meetings. Learn about upcoming events, ask questions or provide input. All members are welcome to attend.

Board meetings - third Monday

Date: Monday, April 20

Time: 9-10:30 a.m.

Location: Classroom

April Friends luncheon

Date: Wednesday, April 8

Time: 11:15 a.m.-2 p.m.

Fee: $15 per person

Enjoy visiting with friends as you enjoy entertainment by Calvin Weatherall “The Hat Man.” The luncheon is sponsored by Joyce Titeica from Assisting Hands (https://assistinghands.com/94/colorado/littleton/). Enjoy a meal of chicken marsala, mashed potatoes, Italian veggies and dessert. Registration and payment will be accepted at the senior center front desk through Friday, April 3. Cash or check payable to Friends of the HRSC. Nonmembers need to purchase a day pass at the front desk on the day of the luncheon.

Spring Craft Fair

SATURDAY, MAY 16 10 A.M. - 3 P.M.

Save the date for our first Spring Craft Fair. Vendors may still register by completing an application at friendsofhrsc.org. Contact Sue Frommelt at c.s.frommelt@gmail.com or Ginny Morgan v_morgan@sbcglobal.net with questions.

Contact information

Website: friendsofhrsc.org

Email: friendshrseniorcenter@gmail.com

Phone: 720-468-4825

Snack Pop-Ups

After you check in, check us out! The Friends will be selling candy bars at $1.50 each and assorted snacking goodies for your enjoyment on the first Tuesday and third Thursday of every month. Look for us in the main hallway. This month’s pop-ups will be held on April 7 and 16.

Annual Silent Auction

MONDAY, APRIL 13-FRIDAY, APRIL 17

Accepting bids:

• 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. on April 13

• 8:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. on April 14 & 16

• 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. on April 15

• 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. on April 17

Donations are still being accepted and are needed! Auction items include a week-long time share in Estes Park, four rounds of golf, gift cards and more! If you are interested in donating an item, please contact auction chair Maggie Thomas at 303-506-8805.

Home Run Time Social

FRIDAY, APRIL 17

Come join in the fun to mark the end of the auction with music, dancing, games and a raffle. Please register at the front desk before Wednesday, April 8. The menu includes pork sliders on a bun, dill pickle, coleslaw, chips and dessert. Included beverages are red and white wine, lemonade, iced tea and water. Wear your favorite baseball team’s colors and get a last look at the silent auction items.

Fee: $15/person

Time: 3-6 p.m.

Location: Multipurpose Room

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

A healthier spring starts here: Older Adult Health Resource Expo

THURSDAY, APRIL 9 FROM 1-4 P.M.

Free admission, no registration required

Adults ages 55+ and their care partners are invited to visit with community resource and service professionals including:

• Legal services

• Senior moving and real estate services

• Mental health & wellness services

• Medicare & Medicaid plans & services

• Hearing care

• In-home services

• Senior housing, care and placement services

• Douglas County Sheriff’s Office

• Douglas County Department of Community Services

Multiple health screening opportunities including:

• Balance

• Blood Pressure

• Chiropractic Health

• Glucose Levels

• Oral Cancer

• Oxygen Levels

• Posture

•

• New Path Psychiatry

• Reunion Rehabilitation Inverness

• Seven Stones Chatfield Cemetery

• The Sophia Apartments

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Aging Resources of Douglas

County Transportation Program

Aging Resources of Douglas County offers free transportation to medical appointments, local errands, visiting loved ones, attending church and faith-based social activities and attending our senior center programs. Their van is conveniently located in our parking lot so volunteeers can easily reach Highlands Ranch residents. Call 303-814-4300 to learn more about how you can use their valuable services.

Help and Hope Center

The Help and Hope Center is dedicated to supporting seniors in our community by providing compassionate, reliable services that promote dignity, independence, and connection. The center offers assistance with essential needs such as food support, resource navigation and referrals to vital community services. The goal is to ensure that older adults feel seen, valued, and supported every step of the way.

The center is always seeking caring and dependable volunteers who are passionate about serving their community. Volunteers play a vital role in bringing hope and practical support to the individuals the center serves. For information, call 303-688-1114 or email info@helpandhopecenter.org.

SPONSORS

Thank you to our generous sponsors! For information about sponsorship opportunities, please contact cgodar@highlandsranch.org.

TRIPS

Brown Palace & Western Art Museum Tours

TUESDAY, APRIL 7

Join us for a guided tour of Denver’s most iconic hotel, the Brown Palace. After the tour, we’ll have lunch at the Ship Tavern (lunch not included in the fee). Then we will cross the street to tour the American Museum of Western Art-The Anschutz Collection, home to more than 300 paintings by

more than 180 artists from the early 19th century to present day. Fee includes transportation by motor coach, tickets to both tours and trip leader.

Fee: Member: $105, Nonmember: $120 Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Location: Bus leaves from parking lot

RENEE ANDERSON
ANNE-MARIE STRICKLAND

TRIPS

Come From Away Play at Arvada Center

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6

Based on a true story, Come From Away chronicles how the isolated town of Gander, Newfoundland played host to the world when 38 planes, carrying people from around the globe, were diverted to Gander’s airstrip on Sept. 11, 2001. The people of Gander cheered the stranded travelers with music, an open bar and the recognition that we’re all part of a global family. Filled with traditional Irish folk music and stirring ballads, this show is celebration of hope, humanity and unity. Fee includes motor coach, ticket and trip leader.

Fee: Member: $89, Nonmember: $102

Time: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Location: Bus leaves from parking lot

Coors Brewery Tour and Exploring Golden

THURSDAY, MAY 14

The Coors Brewery Tour showcases the largest single-site brewery in the world. The 60-minute tour includes three beer samples (nonalcoholic beverages also are available). The tour involves walking up and down stairs. After the tour, enjoy lunch on your own in Golden. A group lunch reservation has been made at Table Mountain Grill & Cantina, but you are free to choose your own restaurant. Also enjoy shopping and strolling the main street. Fee includes transportation by deluxe motor coach, brewery tour entry and trip leader.

Pikes Peak Cog Railway Trip

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3

The Pikes Peak Cog Railway is the highest cog railway in North America and one of the few remaining in the U.S. The railway climbs 8.9 miles from the base to the summit, ascending more than 8,000 feet in elevation, providing panoramic views of forests, rock formations, alpine tundra, and distant mountain ranges. The trip takes approximately three hours, with 40 minutes at the summit to explore. Dress in layers as the summit temperatures can be 30 degrees cooler than in town, and bring a water bottle to avoid dehydration. After the ride have lunch (on your own) in Manitou Springs and shop along the main street. Fee includes transportation by motor coach, reserved seating train ticket, Summit House donut and trip leader.

Fee: Member: $148, Nonmember: $170

Time: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Location: Bus leaves from parking lot

Monarch Casino at Blackhawk

TUESDAY, JUNE 16

Nestled in the scenic beauty of Black Hawk, Monarch Casino Resort Spa offers an unparalleled experience. The newly expanded casino floor is a haven for gaming enthusiasts, featuring a wide array of favorite table games and more than 1,000 slot machines. Fee includes round-trip transportation on deluxe motor coach and trip leader.

Fee: Member: $83, Nonmember: $96

Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Location: Bus leaves from parking lot

Fee: Member: $38, Nonmember: $43

Time: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Location: Bus leaves from parking lot

TRIPS

Culinary Journey through Tuscany & Florence

DEPARTS THE UNITED STATES ON OCT. 5; TOUR DATES ARE OCT. 6-14

Travel with the Senior Center and savor the flavors and charm of Italy during our Fall 2026 trip. This adventure blends world-class cuisine with timeless culture and is packed full of authentic experiences that will bring the region to life. The booking deadline is Monday, April 6, and registration flyers are in the senior center lobby near the TV.

Fee: $5,249 per person double occupancy

$1,000 single supplement

Includes:

• Seven nights first class hotel accommodations with five nights in Tuscany and two in Florence

• Roundtrip airfare from DIA

• Air departure taxes, fuel, fees

• 14 meals (7 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 dinners)

• Motorcoach transportaion

• Admissions and sightseeing per itinerary

• Baggage handling at hotels for one checked bag

• Roundtrip airport and hotel transfers

• Professional tour director and Highlands Ranch Senior Center trip leader

• Commemorative T-shirt

The fee does not include: Travel insurance, which can be approximately $570; gratuities; or meals not listed on the itinerary.

Enjoy the following experiences:

• Pasta making cooking class

• Dinner at Tuscan farmhouse & winery

• San Gimignano

• Wine tasting

• Florence guided walking tour

• Lunch at a local farmhouse

• Sienna walking tour

• Gelato tasting

• Lake Trasimeno boat excursion

• Island Maggiore with lunch & wine

• Academy Gallery & the Statue of David

• Full day optional tour to Lucca & Pisa

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Senior Center Newsletter April 2026 by Highlands Ranch Metro District - Issuu