Programs

Join us for monthly programs, fitness classes, holiday parties and special events. Travel to Front Range venues such as museums, baseball games, dinner theaters and more!

To register, click on the REGISTER NOW! button. New to the registering process? Click here to learn how.

If you are interested in receiving email updates from EVRPD and Senior Advisory Committee (SAC) about events, activities, programs and information pertaining to senior services, please sign up online.

Class Policy Info

Day Trip Policy Info

COOKING

COOKING CLASSES FOR PEOPLE WHO DON’T COOK
This four-week class series will teach seniors and active adults how to cook easy, but still healthy, foods in a hurry using minimal equipment, ingredients, and prep time. Each week you’ll learn a new formula that’s easily adaptable to your tastes and the ingredients you have on hand—perfect for people who hate recipes!

Age: 50 and older
Location: Estes Valley Community Center Room A and Kitchen
Dates: M 3/4—3/25
Times: 1—2:30 p.m.
Fee: Free; registration required
Registration Deadline: 2/21
Instructor: Chazz Glaze, Community Health Educator

HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY

FIRST THURSDAY MEDITATION - MEETS MONTHLY
No prior meditation experience is necessary. Each session will include a guided meditation, a silent meditation and an exploration of issues and challenges that may arise in developing one's own practice.

Location: Community Center Classroom
Dates: First Thursday of every month: 12/6; 1/3; 2/7; 3/7; 4/4
Times: 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Fee: Free
Registration deadline: None; drop-in
Instructor: Mary Jo Heyen, Meditation and Dreamwork Practitioner

BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC- MEETS MONTHLY
Drop in and get your blood pressure checked by a registered nurse from Estes Park Health

Age: 18 and older
Location: Community Center - Lower Level Senior Services
Dates: Third Monday of each month
12/17 Times: 12:30 - 1p.m.
1/21; 2/18; 3/18; 4/15 Times: 9:30 - 10 a.m.
Fee: Free
Registration deadline: none; drop-in

MEDICARE COUNSELING Need help with Medicare?
One-on-one sessions with a certified Colorado State Health Insurance Assistance Program counselor. Appointment required.

Location: Community Center Classroom
Dates: 1/23; 2/27; 3/27; 4/24
Times: 9:15 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (45-minute sessions)
Fee: Free
Registration deadline: Open until filled; phone or in person registration required
Instructor: David James, UCHealth Aspen Club

PRESCRIPTION DRUG PLAN (PDP) COUNSELING Need Help with Medicare?
30-minute one-on-one sessions with a certified Colorado State Health Insurance Assistance Program counselor. Stop by senior services at the community center or click here for a prescription drug plan (PDP) worksheet prior to your appointment.

Location: Community Center Classroom
Dates: Th 11/15
Time: 9:15 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (30-minute sessions)
Fee: Free
Registration deadline: Open until filled; phone or in person registration required
Contact/Instructor: UCHealth Aspen Club

FIRST FRIDAY CULTIVATING WELL-BEING - MEETS MONTHLY
Join us the first Friday of each month to explore evidence/ experience-based approaches that can assist us with developing and cultivating well-being in our daily lives. There is extensive research that supports happiness and well-being that can emerge out of facing our anger, depression, and grief. “Blue zones” that contain centenarians who live happy and fulfilling lives, and healthy communities have now been studied for decades, providing guidance to lead us toward healthier cultural, psychological, and physiological lifestyle choices throughout our entire lives. Come with an open mind and a willingness to listen and share.

Location: Community Center Cassroom
Dates: First Friday of the month 12/7; 1/4; 2/1; 3/1; 4/5
Times: 10 -11:30 a.m.
Fee: Free
Registration deadline: None; drop-in
Instructor: James F. Kettering, M.A., Ed.D. of Leaders Network International

LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP - MEETS QUARTELY
If you are experiencing low vision and need a little extra support or guidance, this group is for you. Disabled Resource Services will host a quarterly meeting to discuss low vision related topics and help you stay up to date on blindness-related news and research. They can also help you access assistive devices like magnifiers, closed circuit televisions, task lights, talking watches and more.

Age: 55 and older
Location: Community Cener Classroom
Dates: Tu 12/11; 4/9
Times: 1 - 2 p.m.
Fee: Free
Registration deadline: None; drop-in
Instructor: Disabled Resource Services of Loveland and Fort Collins

VOA LARIMER COUNTY: WHO ARE THEY AND HOW CAN THEY HELP YOU HELP OTHERS?
Volunteers of America (VOA) is a 120-year-old, faith-based nonprofit which serves “the most vulnerable” in any given community. Come to this introductory session about what they are doing in Larimer County and Estes Park, what opportunities there are to volunteer (Caring Companions program, Handyman program, SeniorCorps volunteer placement services), and more.

Age: 18 and older
Location: Community Center Classroom
Dates: W 2/6 Times: 10—11 a.m.
Fee: Free; registration required
Registration Deadline: 1/30
Instructor: Andrew Davies, SeniorCorps-RSVP Director, Larimer County/VOA Volunteer Project Manager

AARP DRIVER SAFETY COURSE
The AARP Driver Safety program is designed to help drivers live more independently as they age and remain safe on today’s roads. The one-day course covers defensive driving skills as well as practical techniques for adjusting to the normal changes in vision, hearing and reaction time associated with aging.

Age: 50 and older
Location: Community Center Classroom
Dates: Th 2/28; 4/25
Times: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (one hour lunch break, lunch is not included)
Fee: $15 AARP members; $20 non-members
(checks payable to AARP the day of class )
Registration deadline: 2/21; 4/18
Instructor: Catie Davis

DEMENTIA CONVERSATIONS WITH THE ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION
This program offers tips on how to have honest and caring conversations with family members about going to the doctor, deciding when to stop driving and making legal and financial plans.

Age: 18 and older
Location: Community Center Room C
Dates: Th 3/14
Times: 1—2:30 p.m.
Fee: Free; registration required
Registration Deadline: 3/7
Instructor: Katie Fahrenbruch, M.Ed., Regional Director, Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado

WHAT’S YOUR PLAN? PART 1
Who would make your medical decisions if you were unable to speak for yourself? The Larimer Advance Care Planning Team will give you the guidance you need to complete your Advance Directive documents and get them shared with your loved ones and the local health care systems. Join us for a free informative and interactive event to help create Colorado advance medical directives that represent your values and what is important to you.

Age: 18 and older
Location: Community Center Room C
Dates: F 3/15
Times: 10 a.m.—12 p.m.
Fee: Free; registration required
Registration Deadline: 3/8
Instructor: The Larimer Advanced Care Planning Team

AARP LIFE REIMAGINED
What’s next in your life? Experiencing transitions in activities, abilities, passions, locations, relationships and more can be exciting and anxiety producing at the same time. Working through the Life Reimagined process will help you make decisions, gain confidence about your possible transitions, and answer the question: What’s next?

Age: 50 and older
Location: Community Center Classroom
Dates: Th 3/28
Times: 1:30—3 p.m.
Fee: Free; registration required
Registration Deadline: 3/21
Instructor: Laurel Kubin, M.S., C.F.C.S., A.F.C.

FAMILY CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM
Many of us will be called on to offer support and care for an older family member. It may be a spouse, aging parent, or someone else in our life and care. Studies show that most do not reach out for support; it’s what we do as family. However, family members who feel supported are better and happier caregivers for their loved ones. Come learn about the Larimer County Office on Aging Caregiver Support Program and many other community-based services for family caregivers. There are resources available to help manage the stress of care giving.

Age: 18 and older
Location: Community Center Classroom
Dates: W 4/10
Times: 11 a.m.—12 p.m.
Fee: Free; registration required
Registration Deadline: 4/3
Instructor: Lynette McGowan, Larimer County Office on Aging

WHAT’S YOUR PLAN? PART 2
Who would make your medical decisions if you were unable to speak for yourself? This is a follow-up to What’s Your Plan? Part 1 held March 15. Contact senior services at the community center for a one-on-one guided appointment. Help is also available to update and distribute existing directives. Space is limited.

Age: 18 and older
Location: Community Center Classroom
Dates: F 4/12
Times: 10 a.m.—12 p.m.
Fee: Free; registration required
Registration Deadline: Open until filled; phone or in-person registration required
Instructor: The Larimer Advanced Care Planning Team

LIFELONG LEARNING

SUPREME COURT DISCUSSION - WEEKLY
Utilizing recent and upcoming cases for relevant context, this discussion group will examine both broad and specific constitutional issues. Participants are encouraged to follow current Supreme Court decisions and commentary in the news media and bring articles and questions to class.

Location: Community Center Lower Level
Dates: Tu (weekly)
Times: 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Fee: Free
Registration deadline: None; drop-in
Instructor: Eric Waples

THE GREAT COURSES - MASTERWORKS OF AMERICAN ART
DVD lectures presented by Professor William Koss, an independent art historian with the Smithsonian Institution. This 12-week course will explore the remarkable history of American art from its origins in the colonial past until shortly before the First World War.

Location: Community Center Chiquita/Room C
Dates: M 9/10 - 11/26
Time: 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Fee: Free
Registration deadline: None; drop-in
Contact/Instructor: Lois Sumey, Group Facilitator

THE GREAT COURSES® LECTURE SERIES ARCHAEOLOGY: AN INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD’S GREATEST SITES
The work of archaeologists has commanded worldwide attention and captivated the human imagination since the earliest days of exploration. DVD lectures taught by Professor Eric Cline, Professor of Classics and Anthropology and the current director of the George Washington University Capital Archaeological Institute.

Age: 18 and older
Location: Community Center Room C
Dates: M 1/7—3/25
Times: 10—11:15 a.m.
Fee: Free
Registration deadline: None; drop-in
Instructor: Lois Sumey, Group Facilitator

THE GREAT COURSES® LECTURE SERIES THE SECRETS OF GREAT MYSTERY AND SUSPENSE FICTION
Travel the road of mystery and suspense through some of the most amazing minds in literature. Investigate the works of influential authors such as Edgar Allan Poe, Agatha Christie, Dashiell Hammett, Raymond Chandler, Thomas Harris, Walter Mosley, and more. DVD lectures taught by Professor David Schmid, Ph.D., Stanford University, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York.

Age: 18 and older
Location: Community Center Classroom
Dates: Tu 1/8—5/7
Times: 1:30—2:45 p.m.
Fee: Free
Registration deadline: None; drop-in
Instructor: Lois Sumey, Group Facilitator

FITNESS

ZUMBA GOLD BASICS
Class focuses on all elements of fitness: cardiovascular, muscular conditioning, flexibility and balance, and creating a happy start to your day!

Age: Senior and active adults
Location: Community Center Upper Fitness Room
Dates: M (weekly); Times: 10:15 - 11:00 a.m.
W (weekly); Times: 8:30 - 9:20 a.m.
Fee: Included with community center membership or daily admission
Registration deadline: None; drop-in
Instructor: Patricia G.

GET FIT, STAY FIT
This class is designed for active seniors who want to increase muscular strength, range of movement, and (all important) balance for daily living and activities. Hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles or balls are offered for resistance. Both standing and seated movements and exercises will be used in this no-impact class. The exercise room will be set to meet the needs of folks who are able to move freely without balance support as well as those needing a bit of balance support (in the form of a chair.)

Age: Senior and active adults
Location: Community Center Lower Fitness Room
Dates: Tu, Thu (weekly)
Times: 10:30 - 11:20 a.m.
Fee: Included with community center membership or daily admission
Registration deadline: None; drop-in
Instructor: Libby R.

BEGINNER YOGA
Beginner's Yoga is designed for those who have had little or no previous exposure to yoga, with a desire to learn and start experiencing the amazing benefits of a yoga practice. Slow-paced direction and an eye to proper alignment, gives the beginner student a solid base and the more advanced student a good all around yoga experience.

Age: Senor and older adults
Location: Community Center Upper Fitness Room
Dates: M (weekly)
Times: 9 - 10:0 a.m.
Fee: Included with community center membership or daily admission
Registration deadline: None; drop-in
Instructor: Jackie N.

GENTLE YOGA
Improve your strength, flexibility, and mobility through standing or seated yoga poses specially adapted for seniors (55 and older) at any level of health and fitness. Chairs and props are provided to keep everyone safe and supported. No need to bring a yoga mat

Age: Senor and older adults
Location: Community Center Upper Fitness Room
Dates: T (weekly)
Times: 9 - 9:50 a.m.
Fee: Included with community center membership or daily admission
Registration deadline: None; drop-in

SENIOR YOGA
Designed for seniors and older adults, Senior Yoga leads you through a complete series of seated and standing yoga poses. Chair support is offered to safely perform a variety of postures designed to increase flexibility, balance and range of movement. Restorative breathing exercises and final relaxation help promote stress reduction and mental clarity.

Age: Seniors and older adults
Location: Community Center Upper Fitness Room
Dates: F (weekly)
Times: 10 - 10:50 a.m.
Fee: Included with community center membership or daily admission
Registration deadline: None; drop-in
Instructor: David P, Yoga Fit Certified InstructorInstructor: Jackie N, Shambhava Yoga (RYT 200), Kundalini Yoga, Yin Yoga

TAI CHI
Tai chi is an ancient Chinese art consisting of relaxed, slow movements that serve to release tension in the body and enhance posture, balance and strength.

Age: Senior and active adults
Location: Community Center Upper Fitness Room
Dates: W (weekly)
Times: 9:30 - 10:20 a.m.
Fee: Included with community center membership or daily admission
Registration deadline: None; drop-in
Instructor: Kristina N, Certified Tai Chi, Chi Qi Gong Instructor

N’BALANCE
Eight-week, evidence-based, falls prevention program funded by Larimer County Office on Aging. Participants must be age 60+ and live in Larimer County. Class is limited to 10 participants.

Age: 60 and older
Location: Community Center Lower Fitness
Dates: Tu, Th 4/2—5/23
Times: TBD
Fee: Free; registration required
Registration deadline:
Registration opens 3/19 and is open until filled.
Please call senior services at 970-586-8191 to schedule a time to meet in person with an N’Balance instructor before being registered for class.

TAI CHI FOR ARTHRITIS AND FALLS PREVENTION (LEVEL 1) - SPECIALTY FITNESS
This 6-week class is easy, enjoyable and ideal for beginners, with or without arthritis. Participants will learn slow, smooth, continuous movements that strengthen internal muscles and loosen joints and ligaments while calming the mind.

Age: 55 and older
Location: Community Center Lower Fitness Room
Dates: F 10/19 - 11/30 no class 11/23; 1/11—2/15 (session 1); F 2/22—3/29 (session 2)
Times: 9 -10 a.m.
Fee: $40
Registration deadline: 10/19; 1/11 (session 1); 2/22 (session 2)
Instructor: Mike C., P.T., Certified Tai Chi Instructor

TAI CHI FOR ARTHRITIS AND FALLS PREVENTION (LEVEL 2) - SPECIALTY FITNESS
This 6-week class is easy, enjoyable and ideal for beginners, with or without arthritis. Participants will build on skills learned in the prerequisite class, Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention (Level 1).

Age: 55 and older
Location: Community Center Lower Fitness Room
Dates: F 10/19- 11/30 no class 11/23; 1/11—2/15 (session 1); 2/22—3/29 (session 2)
Times: 10:15 - 11:15 a.m.
Fee: $40
Registration deadline: 10/19; 1/11 (session 1); 2/22 (session 2)
Instructor: Mike C, P.T., Certified Tai Chi Instructor

INTRO TO LINE DANCING - SPECIALTY FITNESS
If you’ve never danced before, but always wanted to try, come and enjoy learning how to line dance with us. Step-by-step instruction to popular line dances like the “Electric Slide”, “Boot Skootin’ Boogie”, “Footloose” and many more. No experience or partner needed. Learn the latest dances and be the star of the next party, cookout or wedding reception.

Age: 16 and older
Location: Community Center Lower Fitness Room
Dates: Su (weekly)
Times: 1 - 1:50 p.m.
Fee: $5 per class; $7 for this class and Line Dance Party taken on same day
Registration deadline: None; drop-in
Instructor: Jan T.

LINE DANCE PARTY - SPECIALTY FITNESS
An hour of back-to-back line dances. Classes are fun, energetic, and a great way to shed pounds, socialize, and make new friends. No partner required. If you have previous experience with the dance, that’s great. If you don’t, you can either follow along and learn as you go, or take a break until your favorite begins. Move to the music of today’s country, your favorite oldies, disco and more. Let’s get down and boogie!

Age: 16 and older
Location: Community Center Lower Fitness Room
Dates: Su (weekly)
Times: 2 - 2:50 p.m.
Fee: $5 per class; $7 for this class and Intro to Line Dancing taken on same day
Registration deadline: None; drop-in
Instructor: Jan T.

DAY TRIPS

Day Trip Policy Info

QUEEN'S CHRISTMAS TEA AT CASTLE MARNE
The Queen’s Tea features a four-course menu including freshly brewed tea selections, soups, salads, sandwiches, salads and quiche, plus specialty desserts, scones, and tea treats. Everything is made fresh daily at the Castle. Before the tea, you’ll also enjoy a tour of the historic 1889 Castle mansion, which has been lovingly restored to its original splendor.

Location: Castle Marne in Denver
Dates: Th 12/13
Times: 11 a.m. to approximately 5 p.m.; van departs at 11 a.m. from EVCC
Fee: $72
Registration deadline: Th 11/29

NATIONAL WESTERN STOCK SHOW AND PRORODEO
Rodeo’s biggest superstars perform amazing feats of athleticism during each performance of this professional rodeo. After the rodeo and lunch on your own, self-tour the stock show grounds to see the livestock areas, wool exhibit, auction arena, cattle and horse barns, and much more. Trip fee includes stock show grounds admission, ProRodeo ticket, roundtrip transportation, and parking.

Age: 16 and older

Location: National Western Stock Show, Denver

Dates: Th 1/24

Times: 8 a.m. to approximately 6 p.m.; van departs at 8 a.m. from EVCC

Fee: $50

Registration deadline: Th 1/10

GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA
The most popular and sought-after big band in the world for both concert and swing dance engagements, the Glenn Miller Orchestra is considered one of the greatest bands of all time. Trip fee includes a ticket to the show, roundtrip transportation, full dinner, tax, and tip.

Age: 16 and older
Location: Boulder Dinner Theater
Dates: Tu 2/26
Times: 11 a.m. to about 5:30 p.m.; van departs from EVCC at 11 a.m.
Fee: $72
Registration deadline: Tu 2/12

DOWNTOWN AQUARIUM
Denver’s Downtown Aquarium houses more than 500 species of animals and boasts more than a million gallons of underwater exhibits that highlight fascinating ecosystems around the world. Enjoy lunch on your own while seated around a 50,000-gallon centerpiece aquarium. Trip fee includes aquarium exhibit ticket, roundtrip transportation, and parking.

Age: 16 and older
Location: Downtown Aquarium in Denver
Dates: W 3/20
Times: 9 a.m. to approximately 5 p.m.; van departs from EVCC at 9 a.m.
Fee: $40
Registration deadline: W 3/6

NEW BELGIUM BREWING AND OLD TOWN FORT COLLINS
The April day trip will be a tour of New Belgium Brewing and some time to shop and eat in fabulous Old Town Fort Collins, the setting that was the inspriation for Disneyland’s Main Street, U.S.A. Stay tuned to evrpd.com or sign up for our electronic newsletter for specific details about date and time.

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL
EVRPD is pleased to collaborate with Collette, a 100-year-old travel company, to offer international trips in 2019. Marvel at must-see sights, sample regional cuisine, stay in centrally located hotels, and connect with new and captivating cultures. Trip itineraries offer an inspiring and easy way to experience the world, where an expert guide takes care of all the details.

FRANCE MAGNIFIQUE
As June marks the 75th anniversary of D-Day and the invasion at Normandy, EVRPD’s first international tour will visit France. This 15-day trip includes round-trip airfare from Denver, hotel accommodations, 20 meals, a full itinerary, and tours at a variety of locations. Highlights include Paris, a River Seine cruise, Normandy, Omaha Beach, Le Mont St. Michel, Loire Valley, Avignon, Nice, Monaco, and much more.

Dates: 5/16—5/30
Fee: Single and double occupancy rates vary based on the date of booking, airfare class, and the optional inclusion of travel insurance.
For detailed information, visit https://gateway.gocollette.com/ link/904641

DISCOVER THE ITALIAN VISTAS
This 13-day trip includes round-trip airfare from Denver, hotel accommodations, 17 meals, a full itinerary, and tours at a variety of locations. Highlights include Rome, the Colosseum, Ruins of Pompeii, Sorrento Coast, Isle of Capri, Florence, Statue of David, Leaning Tower of Pisa, a Tuscan winery, Venice, Murano Island, Verona, Stresa, and Locarno, Switzerland.

Dates: 9/30—10/13
Fee: Single and double occupancy rates vary based on the date of booking, airfare class, and the optional inclusion of travel insurance.
For detailed information, visit https://gateway.gocollette.com/ link/904581

STEP INTO YOUR CREATIVE SPACE

PALETTE PALS OPEN ART STUDIO - WEEKLY
Bring your own materials and projects. Get inspired by others.

Location: Classroom
Dates: M (weekly)
Times: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Fee: Free; Drop in

SPECIAL EVENTS

JINGLE AND MINGLE HOLIDAY PARTY
Join us for this free, drop-in holiday event hosted by EVRPD Senior Services in collaboration with the EVRPD Senior Advisory Committee and Estes Park Newcomers Club. Activities include:

Ornament Decorating
Hot Chocolate Bar
Cookie Decorating with Mrs. Claus - 10 am - noon
Photos with Santa (for the young and young at heart!) - 10 am - noon
Holiday Carolinig Performed by Estes Valley Lifelong Learners - 12:30 pm performance
Live Holiday Music - ongoing
White Elephant Gift Exchange (check your attic, basement, or closet to find your silliest gently-used item. Wrap it up and bring it to the party!)
Ugly Sweater Contest with prizes
Games facilitated by Estes Park Middle School Student Council

Age: For the young and young at heart!
Location: Community Center Lower Level
Dates: F 12/7
Times: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Fee: Free; Drop in and please bring a friend

SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES

WEEKLY TUESDAY SOCIAL HOUR
Drop in for fresh baked goods, fruit, coffee and hot tea. Chat with old friends and make some new ones.

Location: Community Center Lower Level
Dates: Tu (weekly)
Times: 10 - 11 a.m.
Fee: Free; drop in

MAHJONG - WEEKLY
Mahjong is a popular, four-player, tile-based game that originated in China. Come play this game of skill, strategy, calculation and chance.

Location: Community Center Gameroom
Dates: M and F (weekly)
Times: 12:30 - 4 p.m.
Fee: Free; drop in

ROCKY ROLLERS WII BOWLING - WEEKLY
Wii bowling attracts the feeling and effects of being in a real bowling alley. It allows players to mimic all the critical motions of real-life bowling by using simple motion controls — bowling the ball is as easy as flicking your wrist. Players can adjust the speed of their throws by swinging the remote faster, and can add spin to the ball by twisting their wrist as they throw. Players can even create a Mii in their own liking to use while playing. It is easy to lean and play.

Location: Community Center Gameroom
Dates: M (weekly)
Times: 10 a.m.
Fee: Free; drop in
Instructor: LoAnne Forschmeidt

BRIDGE LESSONS - WEEKLY
Want to play bridge but don't know how, drop in for lessons.

Location: Community Center Gameroom
Dates: Th (weekly)
Times: 11:15 a.m.
Fee: Free
Instructor: Llyod Parker

COMMUNITY BRIDGE - WEEKLY
Bridge is a partnership game requiring four players. Each player sits opposite his partner at a card table. Bridge is played with a standard deck of 52 playing cards. Single players welcomed. Partners are paired for you. To play, call Lloyd Parker at 970-581-3505.

Location: Community Center Gameroom
Dates: Th (weekly)
Times: 12:30 - 4 p.m.
Fee: Free
Instructor: Llyod Parker

Questions? Contact us.