It's no surprise that the Senior Citizen Luncheon that took place Saturday, September 29 was a huge success. In fact, this was the largest senior citizen gathering in the history of Tri-Lakes! Seniors from all over the community came to enjoy live entertainment, delicious food, and fun door prizes. With violins and harps playing in the background, everybody seemed to appreciate the company of others and the effort that was put into making this an excellent day.
Such a big and exciting event required the help of a community service club at Lewis-Palmer High School that I am a part of, called Serteen. The other Serteens and I were put straight to work serving the seniors their lunch, refilling drinks, and handing out prizes. We did an excellent job of supporting the Senior Citizen Alliance by helping the seniors with whatever needs they had and getting to know them by conversing. Although Serteens have volunteered at many different events, this one was rewarding in a special way. I think I speak for the other Serteens who volunteered as well when I say that we had a great time serving and chatting with the seniors. The fact that high school teenagers volunteered time to help make the senior luncheon a success is a powerful thought. I think it's great that the Serteens can manage to commit to their volunteer job as well as connect on a personal level to the seniors in the community. I am sure that the Serteen volunteers and the senior citizens both benefited from each other's presence.
In addition to the wonderful help from Serteen, the luncheon was packed full of informational talks, entertainment, tasty food, and door prizes. Dr. Ray Blanch, the superintendent of School District 38, shared with the seniors the future plans for the district and how they can be involved in and support the schools. Wendy Venturini discussed the new and local YMCA and how the seniors can be involved in it by taking advantage of opportunities such as yoga and pilates classes. The entertainment included a fantastic group filled with local senior men called "America the Beautiful Singers", harps and violins, and songs sung by myself. The actual lunch was absolutely delicious and was provided by Rosie's Diner, Bayou BBQ, Taste of Life Organic Market, Crackers Catering, and Serranos Coffee. Throughout the luncheon, a raffle was held for all seniors who bought a ticket. Many seniors ended up winning beautiful pictures and paintings, fun goodie bags, and much more. The icing on the cake, however, was the many fall decorations. The tables were decorated with miniature pumpkins, and the placemats were laminated pictures that elementary school kids had drawn for this event. At the end of the day the seniors got to take their placemats home with them as a special souvenir.
Overall, the Senior Citizen Luncheon was a memorable experience for both the seniors and Serteens who were involved. I hope to see this become an event in which Serteen and senior citizens can enjoy every year!