Mansfield Senior Center Celebrating 50 Years

MANSFIELD, CT — September marks the nationwide “Senior Center Month” celebration, where centers across the country highlight and celebrate their work to support and create community amongst the older individuals in the regions they serve. This year marks a special occasion in Mansfield, as the Mansfield Senior Center also celebrates the milestone of 50 years of operation!

The original open house took place on Sept. 14, 1975 with 112 attendees.

From there the center quickly became a gathering place for exercising, billiards, music, potlucks, parties for birthdays, card play and more. To this day, activities such as setback and bridge, organized trips, music, exercise programs and special events (including monthly birthday celebrations) are still vibrant parts of the Mansfield Senior Center operation, which in the last year served approximately 850 individuals age 55 and older.

"To highlight Senior Center month and the 50th anniversary, staff at the Senior Center have filled the month with both our everyday activities and a number of special events. We’re especially excited for the Variety Show on September 25th, put on by current members.” senior center supervisor Jessica Tracy said. "This month is a great time to come and explore what we may have to offer you or your loved one. Whether you are just looking for a social outlet and camaraderie, have a specific pastime you enjoy, could benefit from rides to local medical appointments or our support groups, or just want to indulge in an affordable house-prepared lunch, we welcome anyone age 55 and older to join us.”

Head to mansfieldct.gov/seniors for the full schedule of September events in the monthly Senior Sparks Newsletter.

"The Mansfield Senior Center has cultivated a wonderful community within our Town. For half a century, the Center has been a place where older residents can find connection, enrichment, and support. The Center is not only a hub for programs and services but also a true place of fellowship where friendships are formed and lives are enriched. Whether it’s woodcarving and crafting, tie-dying shirts for a 60s celebration, stopping by for a coffee or a special holiday banquet—there’s always laughter and warmth within the Center. We are happy to celebrate 50 years of this community, and thank the staff and the members of the Senior Center who contribute their time and talent to create such a special experience there,” Mansfield Town Manager Ryan Aylesworth said. "We hope that all residents will take the time to stop in during this 50th year celebration to see the Center, learn about the amazing programs and care that takes place there."

New members are welcome anytime. Membership to the Mansfield Senior Center is free and is open to residents of all towns. Individual programs may have fees or Mansfield resident priority. Tours are available almost any time.

"Learn about the center anytime this month with the scavenger hunt of lesser-known resources and activities. Gather for support at the caregiver support, cancer support, bereavement support, or PTSD support groups. Find helpful resources and learn about Mansfield Senior Center activity groups at the local resources fair on Sept. 17 from 10 a.m. to noon, or at the homecare and elder law presentations later in the month. Enjoy a meal and down time at the Maple Road Café on September 19th, followed by free musical entertainment! Stay entertained at the Magic Show on September 11th and the “Golden Night of Stars” Variety Show on the 25th, or on one of this month’s numerous trips (spaces limited). There is so much to do. We can’t wait to meet you," Tracy said.

The Mansfield Senior Center is located at 303 Maple Road, Storrs/Mansfield, CT 06268.

Questions and information requests can be directed to 860-429-0262.