A few years ago, some older people in the Lakes Region realized a need for active seniors to gather and enjoy socializing, activities and scheduled events. I recall getting a phone call asking if I thought there’d be any interest in forming such a group. I reminded the caller that back in the 1970s, there had been a Windham-Raymond Senior Club, which had more than 100 members.)
In the summer of 2011 this group set out to find a central location in the region and this materialized at the former Little Falls School. A board of directors was formed, bylaws written, and nonprofit status (401c3) obtained.
The Lakes Region Senior Center is happy to report the return to the former Little Falls School, now designated the Little Falls Activity Center, 40 Acorn St., Gorham. It has been a long journey to return to this location, where the group began.
The Little Falls Activity Center has undergone needed updates over the two-year absence of the Lake Region Seniors: roof repair, new heating system and new windows. Also added were public water, septic and natural gas services.
The seniors now occupy their previous area with an addition of built-in cabinets and counter space. The small chairs have been replaced with comfortable, padded, stackable chairs. The members are so happy to be back and they are working to organize everything.
The first event, a brunch, was held on Monday, April 13, with many delicious dishes served buffet style.
Lakes Region Senior Center is a drop-in center Monday through Thursday, open from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., to just socialize, enjoy the puzzle table, or partake in a regular activity. Special classes and speakers with programs are available monthly and are publicized in the local newspapers and via the monthly newsletter.
Regular activities include Mahjong, poker, crafts, games, bingo and on the second and fourth Wednesday, weight support and chair yoga, and on Thursdays at 10 a.m., bingo.
If you are interested in more information about the Lakes Region Senior Center, stop in during the regular hours and visit. It’s easy to join if you are 55 or older and live in any of the Lakes Region towns – just complete an application. The annual dues are $20, which helps to cover printing and mailing of the monthly newsletter. For more information, call Blanche, 892-5604, or Kim, 892-6326.
Kay Soldier welcomes reader ideas for column topics of interest to seniors. She can be reached by email at kso48@aol.com, or write to 114 Tandberg Trail, Windham, ME 04062.
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