Coon Rapids Celebrates 50 Years Of Senior Programming — And The Fun Is Just Getting Started

Coon Rapids Celebrates 50 Years Of Senior Programming — And The Fun Is Just Getting Started

COON RAPIDS, MN — This year marks a golden milestone for the seniors of Coon Rapids: 50 years of dedicated senior programming. What began as a modest effort in the 1970s has grown into a vibrant, multi-faceted hub that fosters connection, lifelong learning, and community engagement for residents aged 55 and older.

Fittingly, the anniversary theme—“50 Years & More Senior Fun!”—captures both a proud history and an ambitious vision for the decades ahead.

A Year of Celebration

The milestone year opened with an elevated twist on a cherished tradition: the Super Senior Club’s annual picnic. This year’s event featured live music, formal place settings, and prize drawings, transforming the summer favorite into a sparkling anniversary celebration.

Another highlight honored couples married for 50 years or more with a “march through the arch,” a moving performance by the Goldentones Choir, and a full lunch with all the trimmings. The events reflected the core values of Coon Rapids Senior Services—community, connection, and celebration of life’s milestones.

Senior Connect: Staying Engaged Anywhere

For those who prefer to connect virtually—or simply want to add more activities to their week—Senior Connect links participants to programming, tips, and resources online, curated by Coon Rapids Senior Services staff.

Each week, the Senior Connect e-newsletter is emailed to participants, featuring engaging articles, recipes, and links to fun classes and presentations offered via Zoom. This digital lifeline helps keep seniors informed, inspired, and socially connected—whether at home or on the go.

Signing up is simple: Visit the City of Coon Rapids’ “Notify Me” page and select “Senior Center Activities.” After confirming your subscription, the weekly updates will arrive directly in your inbox.

A Thriving Hub for Seniors

Housed in the Coon Rapids Civic Center, the Senior Services facility is staffed by two employees, supported by numerous volunteers, and guided by an Advisory Board. Volunteers play an essential role—organizing activities, assisting with programs, and driving the senior transportation van to ensure accessibility for all participants.

Programming highlights include:

• Games & Recreation: Bridge, 500, cribbage, and bunco.
• Creative Activities: Wood carving, paper crafting, and a writers’ club.
• Health & Fitness: Group exercise, yoga, square dancing, and walking clubs.
• Social & Cultural Gatherings: Book clubs, veterans’ coffee groups, and informal coffee chats.
• Educational Opportunities: Guest speakers, skill-building classes, and informational seminars.

Beyond the Center Walls

Coon Rapids Senior Services also organizes day trips to theaters, casinos, restaurants, and other regional attractions—offering opportunities to explore, learn, and socialize beyond the city limits.

The center fosters community service through outreach initiatives, such as volunteering at Feed My Starving Children, hosting American Red Cross blood drives, and organizing donation collections for school supplies and other local needs.

A Community Open to All

Programs are funded by the City of Coon Rapids and are open to all adults aged 55 and older. Some activities are free, while others require a nominal fee. For expanded opportunities and special events, membership in the Super Senior Club—available for a modest annual fee—provides an even richer experience.

Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the community, Coon Rapids Senior Services offers something for everyone, from high-energy outings to quiet, creative pursuits.

As Coon Rapids looks ahead to the next 50 years, one thing is certain: the commitment to keeping seniors engaged, connected, and active will continue to grow—both inside the center and throughout the wider community.

MinneapoliMedia