Casino trips. Dance classes. Internet instruction. Just a few activities for Manatee County seniors who want to get up, get out and do something spunky. Pop into the Renaissance on 9th, which includes the Senior Enrichment Center operated by Meals on Wheels PLUS, to find a broad range of activities and services including a bistro, library, exercise room and ballroom. The 25,000-square-foot building, which officially opened May 20, is designed as a social hub for seniors. Programs at the facility are designed to promote healthy lifestyles and maximize the quality of life, said Kristen Theisen, Renaissance development director. Watercolor. Painting. Ceramics. Pottery. They’re all available in the art center at the facility, located at the corner of Ninth Street West and 18th Avenue West. “It’s an upscale, beautiful community center designed and geared for people who are 50 plus,” said Meals on Wheels PLUS Director Ellen Campbell. “A lot are still working. It’s a place for them to interact with others and socialize, or continue education.” Other activities available include card games, knitting, crocheting and crafts. Dance instruction is also provided.
For those seeking to stay in shape, the facility has a fitness calender with schedules for pilates, tai chi and aerobics. In addition, health counseling and support groups are provided. “We have caregiver support groups for adults who are caring for their parents or a loved one,” Theisen said. “They have times they meet to discuss different situations and how to cope with it and deal with stress.” Special speakers and visiting lecturers are offered. So are theater, music appreciation and instruction. “We have live music occasionally,” Theisen said. A resource center with computers and an AARP office is also available. Additional services include legal help, a tax aid program and income assistance; referrals to income assistance programs, employment assistance, money management and credit counseling services.
A Retired and Senior Volunteer Program office and senior outreach services are also on hand. And, computer courses will be available in the computer center. “It will give seniors instruction on Internet and e-mail use — it helps with their technology questions,” Theisen said. For those looking to throw a party, rental space for weddings, anniversaries and community get-togethers are available in the ballroom, the great room and the bistro area. Hungry? A full catering kitchen is also on hand. The center will offer a full-service medical clinic operated by Manatee Memorial Hospital. Annual memberships for the facility are $25 for singles and $45 for couples. The $6.5 million facility was made possible by grants from the state, the county, the city of Bradenton, and private, corporate and civic contributions.
Campaigning is not yet closed as the center continues fund-raising to pay off remaining debt. Across town at Manatee Memorial Hospital is Senior Advantage, where more senior activities are included. Located at 206 Second St. E. in Bradenton, Senior Advantage is a social group for those also over age 50. “We offer a lot of local discount and free services and activities including casino trips, bingo, singles events and a newcomers group,” said Randy Brooks, Senior Advantage coordinator. “Staying active is so important to keep their minds young, their bodies fit. Many of our folks are new to the area and more for anything else it’s good for their social interaction.”
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