September 2026
Celebrate the creativity and talent of local artists at our Community Art Show Reception. The exhibit features a diverse collection of artwork created by community members age 50 and older. Join us on Thursday, September 10, from 4:00–6:00 p.m. to view the exhibit, meet the artists, and enjoy light refreshments and conversation. Everyone is welcome to attend and help celebrate the artistic spirit of our community.
Wednesday, September 9, 1:00-2:00 p.m., Protecting Yourself from Fraud & Scams
Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it more important than ever to know how to recognize and avoid fraud. Join JPMorgan Chase Vice President and Community Manager Sarah Daluisio for an informative presentation on today’s most common scams, including phone, email, text message, and online fraud. Learn practical strategies to safeguard your personal information, recognize warning signs, and take steps to protect your finances and identity. Bring your questions and leave with valuable tips to help you stay one step ahead of scammers. Registration is appreciated. Call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
Wednesday, September 9, 3:00–4:00 p.m., Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group Cafe
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, September 10, 4:00-6:00 p.m., September Community Art Show Reception
Celebrate the creativity and talent of local artists at our Community Art Show Reception. The exhibit features a diverse collection of artwork created by community members age 50 and older. Join us on Thursday, September 10, from 4:00–6:00 p.m. to view the exhibit, meet the artists, and enjoy light refreshments and conversation. Everyone is welcome to attend and help celebrate the artistic spirit of our community.
Friday, September 11, Men’s Breakfast
Doors open at 7:00 a.m., Breakfast 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. This month our guest speaker will be Hank Kaestner talking about “How it all began. My journey into the world of spices” Hank will tell how he happened to end up in his dream job, traveling the world buying spices for McCormick and Company. Yes, cinnamon really is the bark of a tree. Grown mostly on the slopes of Mt Korintji in Sumatra, Indonesia.
If you plan to attend the men’s breakfast, please register by emailing Lane at lmorrison@gmavt.net by Tuesday, September 8 so we know how many will join us.
Saturdays, 10:00 a.m.–Noon. , Learn to Play Pickleball
No registration required.
(Please note that there is a parking fee at Charlotte Beach)
Curious About Pickleball? Come watch a demonstration and then give it a try! Bring a folding chair, wear comfortable clothing and sneakers, and we’ll provide the paddles. Questions? Call/text David at 802-425-4567 or text Greg at 802-338-7909. To receive weather cancellation updates, text your email address to Greg to join the Pickleball email list.
Monday, September 14, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Age Well
Visit the Charlotte Adult Community 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.
Wednesday, September 16, 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, September 16, 1:00-2:00 p.m., “The Final Gift: A Guide to Planning Your Funeral and Leaving a Lasting Legacy”
Join Michele Ambrosino, a third generation funeral director, from Ready Funeral Home in Burlington. Michele will provide a comprehensive session on funeral pre-arrangements, pre-payments, and assisted planning. It covers the benefits of pre-planning, the various options available, and how to make informed decisions that will help you and your loved ones during a difficult time. Registration is appreciated. Call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
Thursday, September 17, 2:00-3:00 p.m., Living Your Best Life discussion
Nurture your curiosity, wonder, inspiration, and delight through thoughtful conversation and engaging books. This month, the group will discuss The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters by Priya Parker. The Charlotte Library has generously provided copies of the book to borrow. Registration is appreciated. To register, call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org. For questions, please contact Ginnie Bukowski at 802-453-5211 or vbukowsk@middlebury.edu.
Thursday, September 17, 6:00–7:30 p.m., Menopause Café
Join Kathryn Blume, Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and Jen Peterson, Ayurvedic Health Counselor, on the third Thursday of the month 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 Adult Community Center and the Charlotte Library.
Friday, September 18 at 1:00-2:00 p.m., “It’s NOT just plain vanilla”
Back by popular demand! Join Hank Kaestner for a fascinating look at the world’s most popular flavor—vanilla. Discover its rich history, how it is cultivated, and the complex process of bringing this beloved spice from vine to table. Hank retired as Director of Spice Procurement at McCormick & Co., Inc., where he was responsible for sourcing spice raw materials from around the world. In 2010, he was inducted into the International Culinary Arts Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the culinary industry. Many at the Center also know Hank as an avid bird watcher and leader of our popular birding trips. Registration is appreciated. Call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
Saturdays, 10:00 a.m.–Noon, Learn to Play Pickleball
No registration required.
(Please note that there is a parking fee at Charlotte Beach)
Curious About Pickleball? Come watch a demonstration and then give it a try! Bring a folding chair, wear comfortable clothing and sneakers, and we’ll provide the paddles. Questions? Call/text David at 802-425-4567 or text Greg at 802-338-7909. To receive weather cancellation updates, text your email address to Greg to join the Pickleball email list.
Sunday, September 20, 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 September photo discussion will be Composition – Rule of thirds, rule of odds, frame within a frame, symmetry & balance, leading lines, directing viewer eyes and verticals. Email 3-5 image files to Dave Pearson or bring prints. Questions? Contact Dave Pearson at pearsond3@comcast.net.
Tuesday, September 22, 10-11:30 a.m., Preparing for Medicare Fall Open Enrollment
Medicare Open Enrollment takes place each year from October 15–December 7 and is the time to review your coverage for the coming year. Join Age Well’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for an informative session designed to help you prepare for Fall Open Enrollment. Learn when and how to review and change your Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage, what questions to ask when comparing plans, financial assistance programs that may help lower Medicare costs, and how to use the Medicare website to compare options with confidence. Registration is appreciated. Call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
Tuesday, September 22, 10-noon, Tech Help with Susanna
20-minute appointments at the Charlotte Adult Community Center
scheduled at 10:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.
Free. Registration required.
Email enigma? Kindle conundrum? App apprehension? Computer questions? Or maybe you want to learn how to use your library card to read or listen to books on a device. Sign up for a 20-minute, one-on-one session at the senior center with Susanna Kahn, Charlotte Library’s Technology Librarian, for some tech support! She will troubleshoot with you and will provide suggestions for next steps. Make sure to bring your device and any necessary login information. To register, call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
Wednesday, September 23, 9:00 a.m. departure., Hiking Trip
Registration required.
To register, call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
Our September hike returns to a longtime favorite—Snake Mountain—just in time for the beautiful fall foliage. This year we’ll take the east-side trail for a change of pace. The hike is approximately 5 miles round trip with about 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Rated as moderate, it rewards hikers with scenic views overlooking Lake Champlain. Meet at 9:00 a.m. in the foyer of the Center. If you have questions about the hike, please contact Michael Rubin at mjrubin99@gmail.com.
Wednesday, September 23, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m., Understanding Medical Aid in Dying: Information, Choices & Conversations
Presented by speakers from Patient Choices Vermont (PCV), this informative presentation will explore Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) in Vermont. Learn how the process works, who may qualify, and what is required under Vermont’s Act 39. The discussion will also explore how to have meaningful conversations with your healthcare providers and loved ones about your wishes and plans. This presentation provides an opportunity to ask questions, learn more, and become better informed about this important and personal topic. Attendees will leave with resources and a greater understanding of the choices available under Vermont law. Registration is appreciated. Call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
Wednesday, September 23, 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.
Thursday, September 24, 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 Center before heading out together. For questions about the walk, contact Penny Burman at 916-753-7279.
Friday, September 25, 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.
Friday, September 25, 11:30–12:30 p.m., Silent Book Club
Join the Silent Book Club, a relaxed, no-assigned-reading gathering. Bring whatever you’re currently reading fiction or nonfiction, print, eBook, or audiobook. We’ll start with brief book sharing, then enjoy casual conversation or quiet reading time. Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is appreciated. Call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
Saturdays, 10:00 a.m.–Noon, Learn to Play Pickleball
No registration required.
(Please note that there is a parking fee at Charlotte Beach)
Curious About Pickleball? Come watch a demonstration and then give it a try! Bring a folding chair, wear comfortable clothing and sneakers, and we’ll provide the paddles. Questions? Call/text David at 802-425-4567 or text Greg at 802-338-7909. To receive weather cancellation updates, text your email address to Greg to join the Pickleball email list.
Saturday, September 26, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., AARP Safe Driver
$20/AARP members and $25/AARP non-members
Registration required. To register, call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
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 driver’s license. Checks should be made out to AARP. For questions, call Krista Willett at (802)238- 9117.
Sunday, September 27, 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, September 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., How to Give Your Kids Money Without Making a Mess
Helping your children or grandchildren financially sounds simple, until questions of fairness, control, taxes, home purchases, education, family loans, and your own retirement enter the picture. In this educational program, Brandon Tieso, CFP, will walk through a practical way to decide what kind of help you want to provide, what can go wrong, and which structures are worth discussing before money changes hands. This is an educational talk, and no products will be presented. Brandon Tieso is a Certified Financial Planner and Wealth Advisor with Community Financial Services Group, known for making complicated financial subjects concrete, candid, and understandable. Registration is appreciated. Call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.
Sunday, October 4, 2:00-4:00 p.m., iPhone Camera Workshop
David Beckett’s iPhone Photography Workshop returns to Charlotte! You own a surprisingly good camera, and it’s always with you. Join this free hands-on workshop and learn to shoot sharp, well-composed photos with nothing but the iPhone in your pocket. We’ll cover composition, natural light, the hidden capabilities of Portrait Mode and the editing tricks that turn a snapshot into a keeper — nothing but your iPhone is required. All are welcome, but the workshop is designed for iPhones specifically. Registration is appreciated. Call 802-425-6345 or email register@charlotteseniorcentervt.org.