Happy Anniversary, Harvesttime Seniors. With an ever-present smile and pleasantly commanding presence, instructor Jean Harper stands in front of more than sixty participants, age 55 and older. This lively group has grown in number since I first met them on their 25th Anniversary Celebration.
As a part of the Twin Rivers Adult Education department, the Harvesttime group began to give area residents a place to gather together to enrich their educational, creative and social facets of life together. Guest speakers, crafts, singing, exercise, and a delicious lunch prepared by generous and talented volunteers fill each Thursday at the North Highlands Recreation and Park Building at 6040 Watt Avenue.
Today’s festivities included reminiscing the past thirty-three years with poems, stories, songs, letters from attendees who could not be there and an award of recognition from the Twin Rivers Adult Education department, presented by Principal, Kirk Williams. Lyla Hanson, a former Harvesttime teacher was also present to congratulate the group and visit many friends she had met through the program.
Ivie Rhodes, who has been here the entire thirty three years, remembers one of the best training classes they had in the early days, and that was how to handle the deaths of those around you. While it may not have been entirely applicable at that time of her life, she has relied upon and appreciated the teaching and preparation, because it is a very real experience in all of our lives as we age.
“People come to make crafts, make friends and gain support – especially necessary because so many live alone.”Pastor Peggy from St. Stephens, a long time supporter of the group, congratulated the group and expressed her excitement about the longevity of the program and how valuable it is to the lives of those who belong.
Molly Bishop, Mary Barker and Helen Farrell lead the group in different exercises each week, reinforcing the need to stay active and keep moving, no matter what the age. Great job to all and a special happy birthday to Helen Farrell who will celebrate her 97th birthday next month! What a spitfire. Helen just quit driving last Monday and noted, “I am the oldest one everywhere I go.” May we all be as vibrant and dedicated to volunteering and helping others as Helen and the others in this lively group are.
Yes, there are men who attend the group each week, but they were just a little quiet this time. I told them that in a few years I will be eligible to come on a regular basis, and not only at their anniversary party. If you, or someone you know, are 55 or older, please check out the Harvesttime group. It certainly meets the needs of those in our community who need to remain active and continue to have a vibrant social life. The group meets Thursdays at 11:30am at 6040 Watt Avenue. Meet new friends, share your skills and learn new ones. Thanks to all who volunteer and work hard to make this program available.