May 2026
May Art Exhibit
This month, members of the Senior Center’s Thursday morning Fiber Arts Group will showcase a beautiful collection of hooked rugs, hand-knit pieces, and quilts, celebrating both craftsmanship and creativity.
Monday, May 4, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Age Well
Visit the Charlotte Senior Center to speak with Pam Niarchos, Nutrition Coordinator with Age Well about the various programs available to seniors, including the restaurant ticket program, which can be used for meals at participating locations.
Friday, May 8, Men’s Breakfast
Doors open at 7:00 a.m. Breakfast at 7:30 a.m.
Suggested donation: $6.
Registration required by Tuesday for the Friday breakfast.
On the second Friday of every month, the men gather for a morning of breakfast, fellowship, and a guest speaker.The guest speaker for May will be Adam Bunting, Superintendent of the Champlain Valley School District (CVSD). If you plan to attend the Men’s Breakfast, please register by emailing Lane at lmorrison@gmavt.net no later than Tuesday, May 5.
Saturday, May 9, 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., AARP Smart Driver™ Course
$20/AARP members and $25/AARP non-members
Registration required. To register, call 802-425-6345.
The AARP Smart Drivers course is designed for drivers ages 50 and older to give the most up to date information that will help to refresh your driving skills. The course aims to give you confidence on the road and upon completion, you may be eligible to receive an auto insurance discount! (Consult your agent for details.) This course is open to all, at a cost of $25, with AARP members getting a $5 discount. Please bring a bag lunch, your current AARP member card and your drivers license. Checks should be made out to AARP. For questions, call Krista Willett at (802)238- 9117.
Wednesday, May 6 at 2:00 p.m., Why Restoration Matters
Join us for a presentation by Ron Wanamaker on preservation and adaptive reuse, exploring the cultural, environmental, and community value of maintaining existing buildings. Ron will discuss the importance of aesthetics, quality craftsmanship, and long-term sustainability.
Much of our housing stock has already served us well for more than 100 years—and with thoughtful care, it can continue to do so for generations to come. In contrast, the post–World War II construction mindset, often built around a 60-year life cycle, has contributed to a pattern of waste and replacement that is increasingly unsustainable. Presented in partnership with the Charlotte Library. To register, call: 802-425-6345.
Monday, May 11, 4:00-5:00 p.m., Conversation Group
Registration is appreciated.
Prompt: “How valuable is the power of persuasion?”
Experience the Harkness conversation method, facilitated by Champlain Valley Union High School students. Originating at Phillips Exeter Academy in the 1930s, this discussion-based approach emphasizes active engagement over passive listening. Participants and CVU students will sit together at an open table, collaboratively exploring texts, problems, and ideas. Join us to share your perspectives on an open-ended prompt. To register, call 802-425-6345.
Wednesday, May 13, 9:00 a.m. departure., Hiking Trip – Snake Mountain
Registration required: 802-425-6345.
Join us for a scenic spring hike exploring Snake Mountain, one of the area’s most prominent peaks. Along the way, we’ll enjoy both hiking and birdwatching. From the summit, you’ll experience views of Vermont’s nearby mountains and across Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. The hike is considered easy to moderate, covering approximately 4.1 to 5.4 miles round trip. We will meet in the foyer of the Charlotte Senior Center, with a carpool option available for those interested. Registration is required as space is limited. For questions, email Michael at mjrubin99@gmail.com.
Wednesday, May 13, 1:00 p.m., Navigating Housing Options & Support Services for Seniors
To register: 802-425-6345
Join us for a panel discussion featuring local experts on housing options for older adults, including aging-in-place initiatives, senior living communities, home sharing, and supportive health services. Discover practical strategies, get your questions answered, and explore valuable resources to help you make informed decisions about housing, care, and support. Whether you’re planning ahead or considering a transition, this conversation will offer guidance and insight as you embrace this next stage of life.
Wednesday, May 13, 3:00–4:00 p.m., Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group
Are you caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or do you know someone who is? Please join us for our monthly Caregivers Support Group on the second Wednesday of each month. The meetings provide a safe place for caregivers, family, and friends of persons with dementia to meet and develop a mutual support system. For additional information please contact Louise Fairbank: louisefairbank67@gmail.com.
Friday, May 15, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Kayak Trips planning meeting
It’s time to plan for the upcoming kayak trip season! If you’re interested in leading or co-leading a trip, or simply want to learn more about becoming a trip leader, please reach out to Susan at susanfosterhyde@gmail.com.
Saturday, May 16, 11:00-noon. , Memory Café
Registration required: 802-425-6345
Join our monthly Memory Café (third Saturdays) for a special visit to Shelburne Farms to see rehabilitating raptors up close. In case of rain, we’ll gather at the Senior Center for an alternate activity. Free and welcoming for individuals experiencing memory loss and their caregivers, offering connection, activities, and support. Presented in partnership with Age Well and the Charlotte Library. Questions? Contact Susan Cartwright at cartwright.susan1@gmail.com.
Sunday, May 17, 2:00–4:00 p.m., Photo Discussion group
Photographers of all levels are invited to share a photo and story in this monthly group. Connect, get feedback, and explore your work in a supportive, creative space. The topic for the May 17 photo discussion will be Monochrome, and they can be by my email, or printed and brought in (prints are always encouraged). Questions? Contact Jonathan Hart at amazingvermont@gmail.com.
Wednesday, May 20, 9:00 a.m. departure., Birding Trip
Registration required: 802-425-6345.
Explore the rich and varied birding habitats of Chittenden County with expert birder Hank Kaestner. This guided outing highlights Vermont’s natural beauty while helping participants identify local bird species and learn about the habitats they depend on. Space is limited to 20 participants, so be sure to reserve your spot early! To register, call 802-425-6345
Wednesday, May 20, 1:00-3:00 p.m., Bananas-for-Bingo
From postage stamps to six-pack to four corners, every round keeps things fun and lively. Join us for Bananas-for-Bingo, a relaxed and social afternoon filled with laughter, friendly conversation, and all your classic bingo favorites. Bingo cards are 50¢ a card- two card minimum. No experience is needed—everyone’s welcome. Feel free to bring your own snacks, or purchase snacks on-site. Bring a friend—or come make a new one!
Thursday, May 21, 1:00–3:30 p.m., Play Reading
Registration required.
Join Sue Foley and Wally Gates for a fun, no-pressure play reading group—no tryouts, rehearsals, or reviews! Meets monthly to read a selected play aloud. Newcomers are welcome to attend as audience guests. For info or to join, contact Sue at ssnfoley@icloud.com
Thursday, May 21, 2:00-3:00 p.m., Living your Best Life discussion group
Registration is helpful.
Join us for a new group devoted to reading inspiring, practical books that encourage us to live with greater joy, fulfillment, and purpose. Each selection will invite thoughtful discussion and help us explore ideas that expand our perspectives and support personal growth. Our first month’s discussion will focus on Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection by Charles Duhigg. For questions, please contact Ginnie Bukowski at 802-453-5211 or vbukowsk@middlebury.edu. To register, call 802-425-6345.
Thursday, May 21 from 6-7:30pm., Menopause Café
Join Kathryn Blume, Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and Jen Peterson, Ayurvedic Health Counselor, for a welcoming peer support group focused on peri/menopause. Together, we’ll explore: Peri/Menopause 101 — an introduction to the changes, Peri/Menopause & Ayurveda — holistic perspectives on care, and Stories & Stigma — rethinking and reshaping the narrative. This is a space for learning, sharing, and connection. Questions? Contact: BlumeHCC@gmail.com. Offered in partnership with the Charlotte Library
Sunday, May 24, 12:30–2:30 p.m., Shape-Note Singing
Join us for traditional, a cappella four-part harmony singing—purely for the joy of it! An intro to shape notes is offered 30 minutes before each session. First hour: Sacred Harp singing. Second hour: Alternate Shape-Note book (books provided). Questions? Contact Kerry Cullinan at kclynxvt@gmail.com
Wednesday, May 27, 12:30 p.m., Ways to Help Protect Your Finances as You Age
Join JPMorgan Chase Vice President and Community Manager, Sarah Daluisio for a workshop where you will learn simple tips to help protect your accounts and finances and how to plan for the future, including creating a financial care plan. To register, call 802-425-6345.
Wednesday, May 27, 2:30–4:00 p.m., Death Café
We gather on the fourth Wednesday of each month to come together in fellowship, celebrating life through open conversations about death and dying. Join us for open, heart-to-heart conversations about death and dying. While these discussions can be difficult, these supportive discussions help build community and celebrate life through shared stories and questions. Questions? Reach out to Polly at ppolly62@ymail.com. To register, call 802-425-6345.
Thursday, May 28, 9:00 a.m., Gentle Walk
Registration required: 802-425-6345.
Enjoy the beauty of Nature! Come walk at a gentle pace with other seniors. The group will meet the fourth Thursday of the month for a congenial non-strenuous walk. This month the group will go for a gentle walk along the Charlotte Town Trail. Meet at 9:00 a.m. in the foyer of the Charlotte Senior Center. To register, call 802-425-6345. Questions? Contact Penny Burman at 916-753-7279.
Friday, May 29, 11:30-12:30 p.m., Silent Book Club
Join us for our first Silent Book Club, a no-assigned-reading gathering. This welcoming space offers a relaxed way to socialize and build community, without the pressure of structured discussion or the need to finish the book. Bring whatever you’re currently reading—fiction or nonfiction, print, ebook, or audiobook. We’ll begin by book sharing where we casually share what book you are enjoying. You may even discover your next great read, so consider bringing a notebook to jot down recommendations. Afterwards, you can continue with casual conversations about the books you are reading or you can find a cozy nook to continue silently reading your book. Light refreshments will be provided. To register, call 802-424-6345.