Huntingburg senior center director reports surge in attendance, outlines new programs

Allison Beaker, senior center director, told the Huntingburg City Parks Board the center has seen a recent influx of participants and is adding programs to meet growing demand. "With Circle of Friends, it's a free activity for our seniors that gives them an opportunity to come together, socialize, make new connections, participate in different projects or activities each week," Beaker said. She reported 15 new people signed up in the first two weeks of the month.

Beaker reviewed summer programming and partnerships: an eight-week Park & Rec program concluded July 24 with a carnival and pool party and averaged about 80 children per day. She said the senior center has expanded offerings (crafts, card games, ukulele and Cinch) and draws participants from nearby towns. Board members asked staff to prepare a cost estimate for operating the center five days a week so the board can evaluate staffing and budget implications at a future meeting.