Charlotte Senior Center | Charlotte, VT

July 2026

July Art Exhibit: Landscape Paintings by Alden Mauck
As a retired English teacher, Alden draws inspiration from the writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, as well as the paintings of Thomas Cole and Fairfield Porter. Reflecting Thoreau’s observation that “We can never have enough of nature,” Alden finds both challenge and inspiration in landscape painting, striving to capture the beauty, scale, and power of the land, water, and sky.

Thursday, July 23, 9:00 a.m., Gentle Walk
To register, call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
Enjoy the beauty of Nature! Come for a walk at a gentle pace with other older active adults. The group will meet the fourth Thursday of the month for a congenial non-strenuous walk. This month the group will walk along the trails at Meach Cove. Meach Cove is a tranquil, 1,000-acre certified organic farm and nature area located in Shelburne, right on the shores of Lake Champlain. Meet at 9:00 a.m. in the foyer of the Charlotte Senior Center. Questions? Contact Penny Burman at 916-753-7279.r

Friday morning, July 24, Women’s Kayak Trip Waterbury Reservoir
Registration required.
Join a community of active women who enjoy exploring our local lakes, ponds, and rivers by kayak. Trips are planned based on water and weather conditions and are subject to change. To express interest, email Susan Hyde at susanfosterhyde@gmail.com to be added to the master list of paddlers. Details for each trip will be sent via email the week prior to the outing.

Friday, July 24, 11:30-12:30 p.m., Silent Book Club
Join us on the fourth Friday of the month for the 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.

Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – noon. *, Learn to Play Pickleball
at the Charlotte Beach pickleball courts
No registration required.
(Please note that there is a parking fee at Charlotte Beach)
Curious About Pickleball? Pickleball is a fun and fast-growing sport that helps improve balance, agility, reflexes, and hand-eye coordination—without placing too much strain on your body. It’s a great option for those who may have enjoyed tennis in the past but now face physical limitations such as hip, shoulder, knee, or other joint concerns.
Come watch a demonstration and see what the excitement is all about! Be sure to bring a folding chair. Afterward, you’ll have a chance to give it a try. Paddles will be provided. Just wear comfortable clothing and sneakers. Have questions? Call or text David at 802-425-4567 or text Greg at 802-338-7909. *To receive updates, please text your email address to Greg to be added to the Pickleball email list to be notified about cancellations due to weather.
Art & Music Programs

Sunday, July 26, 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

August 2026

August Photography Exhibit:
Experience two unique perspectives on the world through the lenses of local photographers Toby Nadell and Dave Pearson.
Photography Night Scenes by Toby Nadell invites viewers to see familiar places transformed by darkness. Captured after sunset—and often in weather that would keep most people indoors—these striking images reveal the beauty, mystery, and quiet atmosphere of the night.
Photography of the Natural World by Dave Pearson celebrates the beauty of nature through thoughtful use of light, composition, and perspective. Specializing in wildlife photography, Dave captures the action, personality, and intelligence of the animals he encounters, reminding us that truly seeing the natural world begins with patience, trust, and careful observation.

Monday, August 3, 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.

Saturdays, 10:00 a.m.–Noon, Learn to Play Pickleball
at the Charlotte Beach pickleball courts*
No registration required.
(Please note that there is a parking fee at Charlotte Beach)
Curious About Pickleball? Pickleball is a fun and fast-growing sport that helps improve balance, agility, reflexes, and hand-eye coordination—without placing too much strain on your body. It’s a great option for those who may have enjoyed tennis in the past but now face physical limitations such as hip, shoulder, knee, or other joint concerns.
Come watch a demonstration and see what the excitement is all about! Be sure to bring a folding chair. Afterward, you’ll have a chance to give it a try. Paddles will be provided. Just wear comfortable clothing and sneakers. Have questions? Call or text David at 802-425-4567 or text Greg at 802-338-7909. *To receive updates, please text your email address to Greg to be added to the Pickleball email list to be notified about cancellations due to weather.

Monday, August 10, 9:00-10:00 a.m., Conversation Group
To register, call 802-425-6345.
Prompt: “How does “freedom” change over time?”.
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 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.

Tuesday, August 11, 11:00 a.m.–Noon, Multigenerational Movement
Join Heather Preis for a free Let Your Yoga Dance pop-up class! Invite a friend or family member of any age to join you for a fun, supportive experience that combines simple dance-like movements with music.All fitness levels and abilities are welcome. Come celebrate the joy of movement, music, and connection while bringing together people of all ages and life stages.

Wednesday, August 12, 9:00 a.m. departure, Birding Trip
Registration required.
To register, call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
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.

Wednesday, August 12, 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.

Thursday, August 13, 12:30–5:00 p.m., Red Cross Blood Drive
Please consider donating blood. The Red Cross is experiencing the worst blood shortage in over a decade. Call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter: CHARLOTTE to schedule an appointment.

Friday, August 14, Men’s Breakfast
Breakfast goodies at 7:30 a.m.
Registration required by Tuesday for the Friday gathering.
On the second Friday of every month, the men gather for a morning of breakfast, fellowship, and a guest speaker. If you plan to attend the men’s breakfast, please register by emailing Lane at lmorrison@gmavt.net by Tuesday, August 11 so we know how many are planning to join us.

Friday, August 14, Women’s Kayak Trip
Registration required.
Join a community of active women who enjoy exploring our local lakes, ponds, and rivers by kayak. Trips are planned based on water and weather conditions and are subject to change. To express interest, email Susan Hyde at susanfosterhyde@gmail.com to be added to the master list of paddlers. Details for each trip will be sent via email the week prior to the outing.

Saturday, August 15, 11:00 a.m.–Noon, Memory Café
We’ll begin our time together with some gentle stretching, then wrap up the hour with a fun garden- and art-themed game while enjoying conversation, refreshments, and the support of good company.
To register, call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
We’ve added a weekday Memory Café to our summer schedule! The Memory Café is a welcoming gathering for individuals experiencing memory loss, along with their care partners, family members, and friends. Enjoy engaging activities, conversation, support, and refreshments in a relaxed, welcoming environment. The program is free of charge and is offered in collaboration with the Charlotte Senior Center, the Charlotte Library, and Age Well. Registration is appreciated but not required. For questions, please contact Susan Cartwright at cartwright.susan1@gmail.com.

Sunday, August 16, 2:00–4:00 p.m., Photo Discussion group
Photographers of all levels are invited to share photos and stories in this monthly group. Connect, get feedback, and explore your work in a supportive, creative space. The topic for the July photo discussion will be “Portraits”. Email 3-5 image files to Dave Pearson or bring prints. Questions? Contact Dave Pearson at pearsond3@comcast.net.

Wednesday, August 19, 1:15–2:15 p.m., Memory Café
Come enjoy a fun hour on the porch creating your own ice cream sandwich while reminiscing about summer memories and enjoying the support of good company.
To register, call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
We’ve added a weekday Memory Café to our summer schedule! The Memory Café is a welcoming gathering for individuals experiencing memory loss, along with their care partners, family members, and friends. Enjoy engaging activities, conversation, support, and refreshments in a relaxed, welcoming environment. The program is free of charge and is offered in collaboration with the Charlotte Senior Center, the Charlotte Library, and Age Well. Registration is appreciated but not required. For questions, please contact Susan Cartwright at cartwright.susan1@gmail.com.

Thursday, August 20, 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, August 20, 2:00-3:00 p.m., Living Your Best Life discussion
Registration is helpful.
This book group will help to nurture curiosity, wonder, inspiration, and delight in our lives. This month, we will discuss Curious?: Discover the Missing Ingredient to a Fulfilling Life, Todd B. Kashdan. Please check with the Charlotte Library if you are interested in borrowing this book title. Questions? Contact Ginnie Bukowski at 802-453-5211 or vbukowsk@middlebury.edu. To register, call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.

Friday, August 21, 11:30–12:30 p.m., Silent Book Club
Join us on for the 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 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.

Sunday, August 23, 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

Friday August 21, 1:00-2:30 p.m., Create Your Own Ceramic Tray or Plate
Cost: $20 plus a $10 supply fee (paid directly to the instructor).
Registration and payment required by Tuesday, August 18.
Join potter Judy Devitt for a hands-on workshop where you’ll create your own ceramic tray or dish. Starting with a clay slab, you’ll add texture and design using fabric and stamps, then learn how to attach decorative elements. No experience is necessary. This workshop is perfect for all skill levels. Once your piece is dry, Judy will fire and glaze it in the color of your choice. Your finished tray will be ready for pickup at the Senior Center in about three weeks.

Wednesday, August 26, 8:30 a.m., Hiking Trip
Registration required.
To register, call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
Join us for this month’s hiking adventure as we head to Split Rock Mountain in Essex, New York. This moderately easy hike features scenic overlooks of Lake Champlain, with a distance of approximately 4–5 miles and minimal elevation gain. After the hike, we’ll stop at the Essex Ice Cream Shop for a well-deserved treat before heading home. We’ll meet at the Senior Center at 8:30 a.m. to catch the 9:00 a.m. ferry. For questions about the hike, please contact Michael Rubin at mjrubin99@gmail.com.

Thursday, August 27, 9:00 a.m., Gentle Walk
To register, call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
Enjoy the beauty of nature while taking a leisurely walk with other active older adults. This friendly group meets on the fourth Thursday of each month to explore scenic, non-strenuous walking routes in Charlotte and Shelburne. Walks are designed to be relaxed, social, and accessible for a variety of fitness levels. Meet at 9:00 a.m. in the foyer of the Charlotte Senior Center before heading out together. For questions about the walk, contact Penny Burman at 916-753-7279.

Friday, August 28, Women’s Kayak Trip
Registration required.
Join a community of active women who enjoy exploring our local lakes, ponds, and rivers by kayak. Trips are planned based on water and weather conditions and are subject to change. To express interest, email Susan Hyde at susanfosterhyde@gmail.com to be added to the master list of paddlers. Details for each trip will be sent via email the week prior to the outing.