J A N UA RY 2026
M O N T H LY N E W S L E T T E R & G U I D E 303-791-2416 | highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter | seniorcenterinfo@highlandsranch.org | 200 E. Highlands Ranch Parkway, Suite 100
2025 in review: By the numbers The senior center opened to the public on Jan. 13, 2025. Since then, programs have grown, new members have joined and the center has become a community. Here are some interesting statistics from our first year: • Almost 44,000 attendees participated in programs and events. • 2,200 people attended at least one event or program. • Fitness classes were the most popular activity, followed by games and clubs, special events and art classes. • On average, 167 people attended a class or program at the center each day. Wednesdays were the busiest day, with an average of more than 200 people. • The busiest months were August and November. • 62% of the inaugural members renewed their memberships in 2025. • Almost 1,500 new members joined in 2025, with 86% residents of Highlands Ranch. • 2025 ended with almost 2,300 members. • More than 160 people volunteered for 2,600 opportunities for a total of 7,800 hours and an economic impact of more than $271,000.
First Anniversary Party Tuesday, Jan. 13 1-3 p.m.
Senior Center members only Celebrate the senior center’s first anniversary! This special event will include highlights from 2025, program and special event updates, an introduction to the new Friends board members and a fun trivia game. Enjoy refreshments, music, a special anniversary gift and door prizes. Open to the first 220 senior center members who register. Register at highlandsranch.org/ myactivecenter.
Grandparent and Me Arts & Craft Class SATURDAY, JAN. 17 Join artSPARK Creative Studio for a morning of arts and crafts for grandparents and their grandkids! Choose from a variety of art materials including watercolors, drawing materials, spin art, collaging supplies and sculpture items. An instructor from artSPARK will be available to help with ideas and answer questions. Fee: $50 for member and one grandchild Time: 10 a.m.-noon Location: Activity Room
STAY INFORMED Congratulations to Cindy Galligan on transitioning to full time Cindy Galligan, our front desk and membership staff member, is now working at the front desk from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This change was necessary due to the high volume of membership and program registration activities happening each day. It will be wonderful to have Cindy around the center more.
Staff
January closed dates
Katie Ireland, Fitness and Enrichment Coordinator
The senior center will be closed on Thursday, Jan. 1 and Friday, Jan. 2 for the New Years holiday.
Vacant, Health and Resource Coordinator
NEWSLET TER & GUIDE JANUARY 2026
Jill Hall, Senior Services Manager Lyndsey George, Guest Services and Volunteer Coordinator
Cindy Galligan, Front Desk & Membership Clerk Ron Bowman & Arnold Infante Facility Services Technicians
Hours Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Connect with us
Nametags Don’t forget to pick up your nametag at the front desk after you join as a member. We have many unclaimed name tags. They are very helpful to have when meeting new people.
Lost and found
The lost and found box is located at the front desk. If you have misplaced anything (water bottles and readers are common items), please check with the front desk volunteers.
Holiday tree recycling
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The Highlands Ranch Metro District offers free holiday tree recycling. Drop off your natural tree, ornament and tinsel-free, from Dec. 26 through Jan. 11 at one of four sites in Highlands Ranch: • Dad Clark Park, 3385 Astorbrook Circle • Redstone Park, 3280 Redstone Park Circle • Toepfer Park, 9320 Venneford Ranch Road • Highland Heritage Regional Park, 9651 S. Quebec St. (Douglas County site)
Facebook: @HighlandsRanchSeniorCenter Website: highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter Email: seniorcenterinfo@highlandsranch.org Phone: 303-791-2416
Suggestion box 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 all programs, nonmembers will need to purchase a day pass to enter the center.
Beginner Drawing
Learn to Play Mahjong (National)
MONDAY, JAN. 5, 12, 26 & FEB 2, 9, 23
MONDAY, JAN. 5, 12, 19, 26 & FEB. 2
Learn the essential principles of drawing. Discover how to use lines to create depth and form, develop shading and experiment with various pencils and techniques. Explore different patterns, textures and methods to enhance your artwork. A starter kit is an additional $15 at the first class.
Spend five weeks discovering the fun and strategy of Mahjong. This beginner-friendly class introduces the rules, tiles and basic gameplay, giving you plenty of time to practice and build confidence. No experience is required—just bring your curiosity and enjoy learning a classic game with others.
Fee: Member: $48, Nonmember: $56 Time: 10 a.m.-noon Location: Activity Room
New Member Orientation MONDAY, JAN. 5 Join senior center staff as they share information about the amenities, opportunities and programs available at the senior center. Fee: No fee Time: 1-2 p.m. Location: Classroom
Abstract Watercolor Class MONDAY, JAN. 5, 12, 19 & 26 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: No fee Time: 2-3:30 p.m. Location: Multipurpose 1
Eye Health Tips TUESDAY, JAN. 6 January is Glaucoma Awareness Month. Dr. Paige Stephens will speak to changes in eye health as we grow older and warning signs that need our attention, including information about glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, dry eye and more. Fee: No fee Time: 1:30-2:30 p.m. Location: Classroom
Fee: Member: $30, Nonmember: $34 Time: 1-3 p.m. Location: Activity Room
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SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS Jewlery Art Studio
Paint & Pour
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 7
THURSDAY, JAN. 8
Discover how to design elegant bracelets, necklaces and earrings using gold vermeil or silver, paired with stunning glass, rhinestone or real semiprecious gemstone beads. In this new class, you’ll learn to use simple techniques like stretch nylon, magnetic clasps and toggle closures—plus create a pair of gold wire earrings. All supplies are included—just bring your creativity!
Settle in for a creative evening as we paint a holiday gnome while enjoying the companionship of other budding artists. Bring your own beverage to enjoy while you paint (beer, wine and champagne only). All supplies are included.
Fee: Member: $18, Nonmember: $20 Time: 10 a.m.-noon Location: Activity Room
Fee: Member: $50, Nonmember: $57 Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Location: Activity Room
Gardening Classes with CSU: Long Term Care for your Holiday Plants WEDNESDAY, JAN. 7 Holiday gift plants can be notoriously tricky to care for. Learn which ones can thrive as year-round houseplants and which may not be worth the effort. Fee: Member: $4, Nonmember: $5 Time: 1-2 p.m. Location: Classroom
Hospice Care Explained THURSDAY, JAN. 8 During this class, learn about the when, why and how of hospice care and services and ask questions. Fee: No fee Time: 10-11 a.m. Location: Classroom
SIX: The Musical Theatre Trip THURSDAY, JAN. 8 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! SIX won 23 awards in the 2021/2022 Broadway season. Fee: Member: $155, Nonmember: $180 Time: Noon-5:30 p.m. Location: Bus leaves from parking lot 4
Watercolor for Beginners FRIDAYS, JAN 9, 16, 23 & 30 Perfect for beginners, this class introduces the joy of watercolor painting and doodling. Learn foundational techniques while creating designs for journaling, card making and more. Each session features fun projects and hands-on practice. All materials are provided. Fee: Member: $35, Nonmember: $40 Time: 10 a.m.-noon Location: Activity Room
Bridge Lessons - Beginner FRIDAYS, JAN. 9, 16, 23, 30 & FEB. 6, 13 Dive into the world of bridge with our beginner lessons. This class covers the basics of bidding, strategy and gameplay in a fun, interactive environment—perfect for those new to bridge. Fee: Member: $31, Nonmember: $36 Time: 10 a.m.-noon Location: Game Room
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS AARP Driver Safety Program MONDAY JAN. 12 This four-hour classroom refresher meets the needs of older drivers. It covers age-related physical changes, declining perceptual skills, rules of the road, new laws, local driving and license renewal requirements. Fee: AARP Member: $20, AARP Nonmember: $25 plus day fee. Register through AARP at tinyurl.com/27a7pwm9. If you have difficulties registering, call Mike at 720-641-6044. Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Location: Classroom
Senior Academy Series: DCSO: Class 1 TUESDAY, JAN. 13 This four-part academy series will introduce you to the many facets of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, including patrol, SWAT, detentions, Special Operations Response Team, Bomb Team and Crime Scene Investigation. All four classes (Jan. 13, Feb. 10, March 10 and Apr. 14 ) must be attended in order to receive a certificate of completion. Fee: No fee Time: 10-11:30 a.m. Location: Classroom
Intermediate Canvas Acrylic Painting: Aspen Trees in Winter WEDNESDAY, JAN. 14 Immerse yourself in a winter forest in this intermediate acrylic class. Paint aspen trees, snowy pines and mountain peaks while focusing on texture and layering to create depth and realism. Fee: Member: $45, Nonmember: $52 Time: 10 a.m.-noon Location: Activity Room
Pollinators Talk WEDNESDAY, JAN. 14 Pollinators are fascinating and incredibly important for ecosystems and agriculture. They include bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, birds and even bats. Fee: No fee Time: 1-2 p.m. Location: Classroom
Living with Osteoarthritis THURSDAY, JAN. 15 This health talk will focus on how to live with osteoarthritis and address challenges such as reduced mobility, chronic pain and joint stiffness. You will learn strategies to manage symptoms safely, maintain independence and enhance overall quality of life. Fee: No fee Time: 1:30-3 p.m. Location: Classroom
Social and Solo Group FRIDAY, JAN. 16 Looking to meet new people, build friendships, and share experiences with others who are also single? Whether you’re interested in casual conversation, group outings, or simply expanding your circle, this group offers a fun way to stay active and engaged. Fee: No fee Time: Noon-1:30 p.m. Location: Classroom 5
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS The Island at the Center of the World
Art History Lecture: Renaissance Rivals
MONDAY, JAN. 19 & MONDAY, JAN. 26
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 21
Hear the historical story of the early Dutch settlers, their life, contributions and destruction of their settlements in New York by the British empire barely 50 years after they settled in America. This is a twopart series.
Learn about Renaissance icons who produced works more than 500 years ago that are still important and deeply revered today. Join Wendy Adler as she leads a discussion about their greatest hits.
Fee: No fee Time: 2-4 p.m. Location: Classroom
Medicare 101 TUESDAY, JAN. 20 During Medicare Open Enrollment period (Jan. 1 - Mar. 31) have your questions answered by a Medicare professional including: How and when can I make changes? What is a Medicare supplement? What is an Advantage Plan? Fee: No fee Time: 10-11:30 a.m. Location: Classroom
Bingo TUESDAY, JAN. 20 Spend the afternoon with us playing bingo. 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 2
Travel Talks: Singapore TUESDAY, JAN. 20 Enjoy a slide and video travel talk on Singapore, a fascinating city/state that blends ancient traditions with modern architecture and technology. You’ll visit the hustle and bustle of Chinatown, marvel at the light and water hotel shows and gawk at the food stalls in the Hawker malls. Fee: No fee Time: 2-3 p.m. Location: Multipurpose Room 3 6
Fee: Member: $5, Nonmember: $6 Time: 10-11 a.m. Location: Classroom
Gardening Classes with CSU: Your 2026 Garden Month by Month WEDNESDAY, JAN. 21 Bring your planner for a bird’s-eye view of seasonal garden tasks and common happenings, helping you stay organized while enjoying your gardening adventures. Fee: Member: $4, Nonmember: $5 Time: 10-11 a.m. Location: Activity Room
Ready, Set, Sold! WEDNESDAY, JAN. 21 This program will explain how to prepare your home for sale to stand out and sell successfully. A catered lunch will be provided. No solicitation. Fee: No fee Time: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Location: Classroom
Hearing Clinic WEDNESDAY, JAN. 21 During your one-on-one visit with Dr. Dusty Jessen and/or Dr. Joe Kraus, you will be provided a video otoscopy (ear canal check), inspection, cleaning and replacement of parts on current hearing aids, as well as a basic hearing screening if you do not have hearing aids and have never had a hearing test before. Fee: No fee Time: 1-4 p.m. Location: Classroom
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS Dental Health: Why it Matters
Scene Stealers Acting Club
THURSDAY, JAN. 22
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28
A dental professional will share simple and natural ways to gain and protect oral health, as well as explain correlations between oral health and a number of systemic diseases. The program will include information about dry mouth related to medications. A complimentary oral cancer screening will be offered.
Join us for an informal gathering of members interested in forming a new acting club. Whether you’re new to acting or have years of experience, all are welcome. Come meet fellow performers, learn about potential next steps and help bring this new creative opportunity to life.
Fee: No fee Time: 1:30-3 p.m. Location: Classroom
Fee: No fee Time: 1-2 p.m. Location: Classroom
Mental Health First Aid MONDAY, JAN. 26 & TUESDAY, JAN. 27 Become a certified Mental Health First Aider to help older adults. This is an eight-hour in-person class, split over two mornings. Improve quality of life and learn how to assist and support older adults who may be experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge by getting certified in an evidence-based, early-intervention training program. Whether you need to assist today or years from now, this certification gives you confidence to have conversations that will allow older adults to live as comfortably as possible. Fee: No fee Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Location: Classroom
Canvas Acrylic Painting Classes: Sun-Kissed Snowy Trees
Medication and Supplement Safety TUESDAY, JAN. 29 Dr. Amy Ghaibeh will review common drug interactions, addressing the safety of taking multiple medications at once and determining the need to subtract medications. She will also address the safety of common over-the-counter medications and supplements. Fee: No fee Time: 1:30-3 p.m. Location: Classroom
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28
It’s Not Just You!
Discover your creative side in a two-hour canvas painting class for beginners. Each session features a new theme and guided acrylic painting instruction. Leave with a one-of-a-kind piece to display at home. All supplies are included.
FRIDAY, JAN. 30
Fee: Member: $45, Nonmember: $52 Time: 10 a.m.-noon Location: Activity Room
This class by a licensed occupational therapist will introduce approaches to using tech devices (computer, smartphone, watch, medical monitoring, hearing aid apps, etc.) when physical, cognitive or movement challenges may occur. Fee: No fee Time: 10:30 a.m.-noon Location: Classroom 7
ONGOING FITNESS 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.
Mondays
Day
Time
Description
Location
Includes a mix of seated and standing stretches for relaxation, Fitness Room flexibility and mindfulness. All levels. Focuses on longer holds to cultivate mindfulness and increase Fitness Room flexibility and balance. Must transition from the floor to standing. If you are just learning bridge, or played years ago, this is perfect for Game Room you.
Fee
Instructor
(Member / Nonmember)
Venus E.
$5 / $6
Venus E.
$5 / $6
Volunteer
No fee
8:45-9:45 a.m.
Chair Yoga
10-11 a.m.
Gentle Yoga
10 a.m.noon
Bridge Refresh
11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Tai Chi - Beg.
A gentle and accessible intro to Yang style Tai Chi.
Fitness Room
Inyeong Y.
$4 / $5
12:30-1:30 p.m.
Tai Chi - Int.
Improve your balance, vitality and core strength while practicing mindfulness.
Fitness Room
Inyeong Y.
$4 / $5
1-3 p.m.
Ballroom Dance
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
2-3 p.m.
Enhance Fitness
A 16-week evidence-based class.
Fitness Room
Peggy G.
$173/ $199
(1st & 3rd)
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Class
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.
ONGOING FITNESS CLASSES & GAMES
Tuesdays
Day
Time
Description
Location
Instructor
(Member / Nonmember)
8:45 - 9:45 a.m.
Gentle Yoga
Focuses on longer holds to cultivate mindfulness and increase flexibility and balance. Must transition from the floor to standing.
MPR 1
Venus E.
$5 / $6
9 a.m.noon
Poker
A mix of skill and luck wins hands.
Game Room
Volunteer
No fee
10-10:45 a.m.
Core Conditioning
Enhance your strength and stability.
Fitness Room
Retta R.
$4 / $5
11 a.m. noon
Chair Yoga
This class promotes well-being and relaxation.
MPR 1
Venus E.
$5 / $6
Zumba Gold
Low-impact, upbeat dance fitness class.
Fitness Room
Michelle S.
$4 / $5
Ageless Grace A seated brain-healthy fitness class.
Fitness Room
Julia D.
$16/ $18
This fast-paced social dice game is easy to learn and fun to play.
Game Room
Volunteer
No fee
11 a.m.noon 12:15-1 p.m. 1-3 p.m. (2nd & 4th)
Wednesdays
Fee
Class
Bunco
1-4 p.m.
Triple Play Canasta
Great for all experience levels.
Activity Room
Volunteer
No fee
8:45-9:45 a.m.
Chair Yoga
This class promotes well-being and relaxation.
Fitness Room
Venus E.
$5 / $6
9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Bridge - Party
Play with fellow enthusiasts.
Game Room
Volunteer
No fee
10-11 a.m.
This faster-paced class boosts heart Strength & health, muscle strength, endurance, Balance - Adv. balance and flexibility.
Fitness Room
Retta R.
$5 / $6
11:15 a.m. noon
Strength & This class improves muscle strength, Balance - Beg. balance and flexibility.
Fitness Room
Retta R.
$4 / $5
12:15-1:15 p.m.
Strength & This faster-paced class boosts Balance - Adv. endurance, balance and flexibility.
Fitness Room
Retta R.
$5 / $6
1-4 p.m.
One-on-One Tech Support
45-minute sessions. Appointments are required.
Meeting Room
Kerry B.
No fee
1-4 p.m.
Mahjong National
Mahjong is a traditional Chinese tile-based game that combines skill, strategy and luck.
Game Room
Volunteer
No fee
2-3 p.m.
Enhance Fitness
A 16-week evidence-based group exercise and falls prevention program.
Fitness Room
Peggy G.
$173 / $199 9
ONGOING CLASSES & GAMES
Thursdays
Day
Time
Class
8:45-9:45 a.m.
Zumba Gold
10 -11 a.m.
Tai Chi - Int.
11-noon
Chair Yoga
(Member / Nonmember)
Fitness Room
Michelle S.
$4 / $5
Fitness Room
Inyeong Y.
$4 / $5
MPR 3
Venus E.
$5 / $6
Virtual
Steve S.
$19 / $22
Fitness Room
Michelle S.
$4 / $5
MPR 1
Inyeong Y.
$4 / $5
Game Room
Volunteer
No fee
MPR 3
Venus E.
$5 / $6
Triple Play is a challenging variation. Activity Room
Volunteer
No fee
Enhance your strength and stability.
Retta R.
$4 / $5
Eileen K.
No fee
Retta R.
$5 / $6
Venus E.
$5 / $6
Retta R.
$4 / $5
Retta R.
$5 / $6
Volunteer
No fee
Volunteer
No fee
Peggy G.
$173 / $199
Low-impact, upbeat dance fitness class. Improve your balance, vitality and core strength with mindfulness.. Includes a mix of seated and standing stretches for relaxation, flexibility and mindfulness. All levels.
11:15 a.m.12:15 p.m.
Cardio Circuit
11:1512:15 p.m.
Tai Chi - Beg.
Noon4 p.m.
Poker
12:15-1:15 p.m.
Gentle Yoga
1-4 p.m.
Triple Play Canasta
9 a.m.noon
Fridays
Instructor
Ageless Grace A seated brain-healthy fitness class. (Virtual) Participate from home.
Core Conditioning One-on-One Tech Support
10-11 a.m.
Strength & Balance - Adv.
11 a.m.noon
Chair Yoga
11:15 a.m. noon
Strength & Balance - Beg.
12:15-1:15 p.m.
Strength & Balance - Adv.
1-4 p.m. 1-4 p.m. 2-3 p.m.
Mahjong Military Mexican Train Dominoes Enhance Fitness
Fee
Location
11-11:45 a.m.
9-9:45 a.m.
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Description
Alternate upper body strength work with low-impact cardio. A gentle and accessible intro to Yang style Tai Chi. Combine skill and strategy with a dash of luck. Focuses on longer holds to cultivate mindfulness and increase flexibility and balance.
Fitness Room
45-minute sessions. Appointments Meeting Room are required. This faster-paced class boosts heart health, muscle strength, endurance, Fitness Room balance and flexibility. This class promotes well-being and MPR 1 relaxation. This class improves heart health, muscle strength, endurance, Fitness Room balance and flexibility. This faster-paced class boosts heart health, muscle strength, endurance, Fitness Room balance and flexibility Play this standardized Mahjong Game Room game. Play all of the dominoes from your Activity Room hand before your opponents. A 16-week evidence-based group exercise and falls prevention Fitness Room program.
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 Date: Monday, Jan. 5 & Monday, Jan. 19 Time: 9-11 a.m. Location: Classroom
January Friends luncheon Date: Wednesday, Jan. 14 Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Fee: $15 per person Enjoy visiting with friends as you listen to Studio 8 featuring rock and roll and sing-a-longs from folk to pop. Sponsored by Jeffrey Lazo from Cruise Planners, ohanacruises.com, this meal includes beef stew, salad, roll and dessert. Registration and payment will be accepted at the senior center front desk through Wednesday, Dec. 31. 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 Vendors Wanted Date: Saturday, May 16 Time: 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.
Friends board installation Members of the 2026 Friends Board of Directors were installed in December. Board members are: • Sue Frommelt - President • Ginny Morgan - First Vice President • Diane Stone - Second Vice President • Mike Flower - Treasurer • Linda Grimes - Secretary • Karen Davis - Member at Large • Dave Devanney - Member at Large • Ann Membel - Member at Large • Maggie Thomas - Member at Large
Volunteer for upcoming events The Friends are planning two events in the coming months that require many volunteers: • Silent Auction - April 13-17 • Spring Craft Fair - May 16 If you would like to help in planning and/ or working these events, please email friendshrseniorcenter@gmail.com and someone will contact you. These positions will also be listed in HelperHelper. Contact Lyndsey at lgeorge@highlandsranch.org if you need a HelperHelper account.
Applications for the Spring Craft Fair are now being accepted at friendsofhrsc.org. Booths are $75 for an 8-foot by 10-foot space. questions, call 720-468-4825 or email friendshrseniorcenter@gmail.com.
Contact information Website: friendsofhrsc.org Email: friendshrseniorcenter@gmail.com Phone: 720-468-4825 11
COMMUNITY RESOURCES Community Outreach Committee provides support during the holidays The senior center’s community outreach committee did a terrific job supporting local organizations over the holidays with their successful Angel Tree. “Our members were so generous this year,” said committee chair Diane Stone. During November and December, members picked angels, which identified needed items for individuals, from the holiday tree in the lobby. They returned the angels with gifts, cash or gift cards attached. Results from the program exceeded expectations. • 61 children from the Denver Children’s Home received gifts ranging from the complete Harry Potter book set to a Dallas Cowboys blanket and pillow. In addition to the gifts, $590 in gift cards and cash were donated to the home. • Additional cash and gift cards totaling $760 were donated to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Comfort and Joy program. This annual event provides older adults with handknit scarves, hats and gift cards to local fast food restaurants.
• Additional gift cards were donated to Aging Resources of Douglas County companionship program, Nourish Meals on Wheels and Colorado Christian Services. The committee extends heartfelt thanks to members who participated for their overwhelming generosity. All of the organizations and individuals served are extremely grateful.
SPONSORS Thank you to our generous sponsors! For information about sponsorship opportunities, please contact jhall@highlandsranch.org.
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RENEE ANDERSON
ANNE-MARIE STRICKLAND
reneeandersonrealtor.org
annemariestrickland.com
TRIPS National Western Stock Show
Phantom of the Opera
THURSDAY, JAN. 23
THURSDAY, MARCH 19
Spend the day at the National Western Stock Show in Denver. We will travel by motor coach to the event with plenty of time to visit the stock show and grab lunch (on your own) before attending the 1:30 p.m. PRCA rodeo. A Colorado tradition, this event includes the Clydesdales, steer wresting, barrel racing, mutton busting, bull riding and bronc riding. Participants must be able to go up and down steps to the rodeo seating. Cost includes transportation, grounds admission, tickets to rodeo and trip leader. Trip is sold out, but we are taking a waiting list.
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.
Fee: Member: $115, Nonmember: $103 Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Location: Bus leaves from parking lot
Fee: Member: $155, Nonmember: $180 Time: 12-6 p.m. Location: Bus leaves from parking lot
Extended Travel If you are interested in traveling with the senior center next fall, please complete the 2026 Fall Travel Survey. Please visit surveymonkey.com/r/6VF5JFH to give your input on the next destination. The survey will close at the end of January.
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AROUND THE SENIOR CENTER Join a club or support group The following ongoing clubs or support groups are offered on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis. Check the display in the lobby for room location. Days are subject to occasional changes. New members welcome. Ballroom Dance Club • 1st & 3rd Monday, 1-3 p.m. Board Games Club Exploring our inner artist.
• 1st & 3rd Thursday, 1-4 p.m. Book Clubs • 1st Wednesday, 2-4 p.m. • 2nd Monday, 2-3:30 p.m. • 2nd Friday, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Card Making & Paper Crafts Club • 2nd Tuesday and 4th Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. (No class Jan. 13) Caregiver Support Group • 3rd Tuesday, 2-3:30 p.m. Cribbage Club
Learning healthy cooking and eating skills.
• Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Euchre Club • Fridays, 9:30 a.m.-noon Grief and Loss Support Group • 3rd Thursday, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Line Dance Club • Thursdays, 1-2 p.m. (not in December) Needle Arts Club • Wednesdays, 1-3:30 p.m. Pup & Cup Coffee Chat • 3rd Thursday, (alt. months), 8:45-10:15 a.m. Strings & Things Club • 1st Wednesday, 1-3:30 p.m. Veterans Group Coffee Chat
Leo and Deputy Ryan Faulker are always available to discuss scams and crime concerns in Douglas County. Leo loves all the ear rubs and treats he can get! 14
• 2nd Thursday, 8:45 - 10:30 a.m. Walking Club • Mondays, 8-10 a.m.