The Senior Center’s programming team recently distributed a survey at the center and by email in an attempt to improve the center’s programs.
Fifty unique responses were received from participants ages 57 to 96. Of those surveyed, only 24.4% reported that they live in Curtis Park, with participants from Elk Grove to Rancho Cordova.
The bulk of respondents have attended classes for 1-5 years (36%), followed by 5-10 years (26%), and 10-plus years (21%). This data confirms that the center serves a wide range of people.
According to the survey, the most popular activities are common-interest groups – book clubs, Film Club and Women’s Friendship Group (45.7%).
Tied for second most popular is the Wellness Program and the monthly potluck (34.8%), suggesting the senior community enjoys food and fitness equally. Our games (bridge, pinochle and mahjong) were the next most popular (30%).
When asked for interest in future classes, the favorites were educational lectures, instructor-led art, technology, and dance classes, and different games.
With this in mind, the center staff plans to add more art to the schedule, starting with a beginner-friendly pet portraits class with Learnery instructor Lizzy Mailho.
Special requests for a knitting and sewing group were made. A group will be added to the calendar if enough seniors sign up.
A lecture series and a rotating game group are also in the works.
The survey has reopened for more responses. Visit www.sierra2.org/seniorsurvey. Everyone age 50-plus who has participated in the Senior Center, or plans to, is invited to complete the survey.
The Senior Center is seeking people to lead a group or teach classes. New social groups need “point people” to convey information, welcome new members and keep the group on track. Also needed are seniors with skills to share, such as knitting and bridge instruction.
Mention any interest in these roles in the survey or email the program director, Katie Byram, at Katie@ Sierra2.org.