Woodland nonprofit enriches seniors’ lives through engaging activities

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Every week, Woodland seniors can participate in a variety of classes, games and fun activities at the local community center, fostering connection and self-development.

The Woodland Senior Enrichment Group, a nonprofit organization, was founded last year to promote social interaction, education and community engagement for the city’s elderly population. Vice President Tom Hammer said the group’s journey began with a Facebook post.

A woman posted in a local Facebook group asking if the area had any activities or a senior center for her mother, who was moving to town. The post sparked a community-wide conversation, revealing that while some scattered offerings were available, no local organized group dedicated to senior activities was offered.

Longtime community volunteer Jim Bays took the initiative, reaching out to Hammer and other locals to discuss the possibility of creating such an organization. The group sketched out a vision for what would eventually become the Woodland Senior Enrichment Group, focusing on providing consistent, enriching programs for the city’s older population.

“Our purpose is to give people of age space for quality of life and for their curiosity in a welcoming way that benefits them as well as the community, and that’s our main [goal], giving back. We’re here. We’re a resource. We want to be used for meaningful things,” Hammer said.

Just one year later, the Woodland Senior Enrichment Group offers a robust calendar of workshops, classes and social events. Activities include:

• Workshops: Starting in 2025, expert-led sessions will teach seniors how to navigate digital technology, covering basics like texting, making calls and using email.
• Widows’ Support Circle: A supportive space where widows can share experiences and find companionship.
• Senior Fun and Games: Weekly gatherings for board games, card games and recreational activities that build friendships.
• Chair Yoga: Gentle sessions that improve flexibility, balance and relaxation, using chairs for support.
• “My Time” Projects: Bi-weekly creative meetups for sewing, ceramics and crafts, offering both artistic expression and camaraderie.



• Senior Book Club: Monthly book discussions that encourage lifelong learning and social interaction.
• Walking Group: A newly introduced activity promoting exercise and connection among seniors.

Most workshops and group activities are typically held at the Woodland Community Center at 782 Park St., though some may take place at alternate locations. Monthly updates, including times and venues, are available at facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557523420030. Activities are open to anyone aged 55 or older.

The group has grown to about 120 members, with 20 to 25 attending most meetings. Hammer noted the enthusiastic response from the community.

“I would say [people feel] excitement, a feeling of surprise, that we’ve gotten this far and have not had a facility like this in a town like ours that is pretty welcoming,” Hammer said.

Board member and secretary April Hall, who joined the group because of her experience caring for her mother, who has Alzheimer’s, agrees. Hall explained how the lack of local activities made it difficult for her mother to stay engaged as traveling outside Woodland for events was both challenging and time-consuming.

Since joining the group, her mother’s outlook has significantly improved, with noticeable day-to-day positivity and enthusiasm for participating in activities.

“She didn’t really have any ambition to do anything other than what she does every day, which is lay in bed and watch TV,” Hall said. “Now she bugs me about when we are going to the group again because she has such a good time. She’s in here usually laughing and making snide comments. She really gets into the competitive part of playing, even if she’s playing Uno and dominos.”

The group’s efforts extend beyond activities. They now accept donations of walkers, strollers and wheelchairs for local seniors needing new equipment.

To learn more about the Woodland Senior Enrichment Group, including how to donate, email seniorinfo55up@yahoo.com, or call 564-237-3562.