Orcas Senior Center news and events

Orcas Island Lions Club announces $25,000 matching grant for Orcas Senior Center renovation

The Orcas Island Lions Club is proud to announce the establishment of a $25,000 matching grant through the Orcas Island Community Foundation to support the Orcas Senior Center’s renovation project. This grant is available for November, so your contribution during this period will have double the impact. These critical improvements will help preserve the building, ensuring the center can continue to serve our island community.

The Lions Club is a strong supporter of the Senior Center’s vision to reconfigure parts of the building, creating additional space for social, recreational and educational activities.

Our partnership with the Orcas Senior Center has been long-standing, including collaboration on the mobility equipment program, diabetes awareness initiatives and providing a bimonthly meeting space. We recognize the Senior Center as a vital and active part of our community and are committed to enhancing our relationship by supporting the building’s renovation. We also advocate for future initiatives such as developing a respite care program.

Donations to the Orcas Island Lions Senior Center Renovation Fund can be made through OICF at www.OICF.us during the month of November.

Thank you for helping us create a stronger, more vibrant island community.

Join us for a free nutrition class on gut health by Ursula Neal

Mark your calendar for Wednesday, Nov. 6, at 1 pm, and learn about the power of gut health with Ursula Neal. With a bachelor’s degree in nutrition and 27 years of experience, Neal, a graduate of Bastyr University’s didactic program in dietetics, brings her passion for natural whole foods to life. Her career spans working with older adults at Lifelong’s Chicken Soup Brigade, supporting research at Fred Hutch Cancer Center and improving food access for those with serious mental illnesses. Neal’s engaging and personalized approach makes nutrition education both informative and fun. Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity!

Fall prevention Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance Class

Join Karol Wilson, DPT, for a three-month fall prevention Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance class at Orcas Senior Center. Wilson, a doctor of physical therapy with 30 years of experience, is excited to introduce this evidence-based program, developed by the Oregon Research Institute. Tai Ji Quan is scientifically proven to enhance physical and mental health, manage chronic conditions, improve neurological function and reduce fall risk. The class is tailored for ambulatory individuals with minimal reliance on mobility aids.

Classes are on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. The fee is donation-based, suggested at $15 per class ($12 for OSC members) or $100 for a 10-class pack. Financial constraints will not prevent participation.

Participants are advised to wear supportive shoes. For more information, visit www.tjqmbb.org or contact Wilson at 206-755-0752 or karol.wilson@live.com.

Join the needlework circle

Join our weekly gathering for knitters, crocheters, embroiderers and all needleworkers at Orcas Senior Center, every Friday at 2 p.m.

Come hang out — no project required! Whether you haven’t knitted in years, want to learn to crochet or just want to relax and chat, we have a wonderful selection of donated yarn, needles, books and plenty of friendly advice. All ages are welcome, so join us!

Transform your evenings with Tara Plank’s Yoga Movement classes

Join Tara Plank’s active Vinyasa-style yoga sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. at Orcas Senior Center. Classes emphasize the science of yoga, with attention given to moving from a place of stability. Each class addresses core strength in a neutral posture and includes moving up and down from the mat. Simply bring your mat (and yoga blocks if available). The suggested price per class is $15 or $12 for OSC members. For further details, explore www.alignmovementtherapy.com or reach out via email at tara@alignmovementtherapy.com. Don’t miss this wonderful chance to harmonize your mind and body, fostering enhanced well-being. All are welcome and please enter at the south door.

Explore the vibrant Watercolors Art Show

Join us at Orcas Senior Center for the colorful Watercolors Art Show, running through November and December. This joint exhibition features works from Robbie Walker’s watercolors class, held Mondays at 9:30 a.m. at Orcas Senior Center, alongside pieces by local artist Ritambhara Tyson.

Tyson, who found her home in the islands in 1982, has always had a deep connection with art and animals. After the passing of her beloved dog Opal in 2019, she began painting pet portraits for friends to honor their cherished pets. This experience not only refined her watercolor skills but also brought joy and healing to those grieving their companions.

Don’t miss this chance to experience the heartfelt artistry of these talented artists this November and December!