The Darke County Senior Center has an outstanding schedule for May thanks to the board who has been tireless at work creating a viable Senior Center for the residents of Darke County. The present board consists of: Glenn Wollenhaupt, Mary Rodeheffer, Carol Hosbrook-Cole, Denise Palivec, Shelly Acker, Theresa Kress, Mary Rader, and Kathy Monnin Gigandet. The board is always looking for informative, educational, life-affirming, and fun programs for the area seniors, then finding a method to make these events affordable by seeking donors, grants, and fundraisers. As a result of their efforts many events are offered at a fraction of their actual cost.
The Arcanum Trinity Methodist is the DC Senior’s May 2026 Church of the month. They are located at 112 W South St., Arcanum and offer Sunday school at 9:30 am, worship on Sundays at 10:30 am and bible study at 4:30 pm on Wednesdays. Missions they support include Samaritan’s Purse, Operation Christmas Child, GRCC Soup Kitchen, Heifer International, Life Wise, Mats for the Homeless, Darke County Pregnancy Center, Darke County Sheriff’s Warm Winter Coats for Kids, and Cookies for First Responders.
As the May sponsor of the month, Arcanum Trinity Methodist will provide a $20 gift card to be drawn at the general meeting, scheduled for Thursday, April 30th at 12:30 pm. At the general meeting they will also provide treats to celebrate the May birthdays and refreshments for the crafting event occurring later in May.
Members with May birthdays include JoeNell Rutan, Lisa Reier, Cindy Sease, Ira Gibson, Roger Trump, John Burkett, Tim Murphy, Janet Dershem, Susan Hershey, Janet Weimer, Betty Weiss, Pam Lavy, Pam Pohlman, Patricia Bacon, Angela Lachat, Brigget Johnson, Joan Ritz, Debbie Grillot, Tim Reeder, Donna Markley, Sue Mills, Gary Pemberton, Sally Evers, Julie Boring, Jaci Kunkler, Jenne Berger, Melodie Bernhard, Marie Hutchinson, Marsha Rieman, Sharre Grubbs, and Cheryl Mikel.
Bingo will be Thursday, May 7th from 11:30 – 12:30 pm hosted by Mary Rader and the movie “The Thin Man” will be viewed that same afternoon starting at 1:00 pm. Popcorn will be served. Bingo and the movie are free events.
Here is the remaining list of May events with descriptions to review previous written about programs please visit us on Facebook or look at last week’s paper. There is also a comprehensive schedule with RSVPs by dates highlighted in bold, below this article. Prospective attendees are advised to note the RSVP deadlines and any required prepayments. Registrations lacking the necessary prepayment will be removed from the list to ensure space for confirmed participants. Registration may be completed in person at the center or by contacting Wally at (508) 789-3884 or Mary at (937) 423-2565, either by phone or text message. For additional information about the Senior Center or its scheduled programs, please reach out to Wally or Mary using the same numbers listed above.
Taiko Drumming Performance ($0) RSVP by 5/5*
Tuesday, May 12th from 11:30 am – 12:15 pm
Presented by Mississinawa Valley Students
Description: Taiko is an ancient form of Japanese Drumming that was originally used as communication between villages. With the advent of more modern communication methods, Taiko fell by the wayside, however, after WWII it was revived in dojos as an art form.
Taiko incorporates aspects of martial arts into its choreography and powerful rhythms, creating an engaging experience for audiences. The group has appeared at a variety of venues, such as the Ohio Statehouse, the Ohio School Board Association, the Ohio Music Education Association, and the Ohio Board of Education. Their performances also include appearances at Indianapolis Public Schools, Sycamore School District, Piqua Arts Festival, Eldora Raceway, events for The Indianapolis Pacers, King’s Island, and the Great Darke County Fair.
Mental Health Matters ($0) RSVP by 5/7*
Thursday, May 14th at 1:00 pm
Presented by Tri-County Board of Recovery and Mental Health Services
Description: Attend this comprehensive presentation dedicated to understanding the significance of mental health throughout all stages of life. Participants will learn to identify common indicators of mental health challenges and warning signs, explore available local resources, and support systems, and engage in a thoughtful discussion aimed at enhancing awareness, fostering community connection, and increasing confidence.
Summer Beauties Porch Pots ($5) RSVP with prepayment by 5/14
Thursday, May 21st at 1:00 pm
Presented by Carol Hosbrook-Cole
Description: Discover the joy of gardening by planting a patriotic themed pot. Simply bring your own 12” diameter pot already filled with soil. Plants, flowers, and fertilizer will be supplied. Carol Hosbrook-Cole, who belongs to the Ladybug Garden Club, will guide the event.
Crown of Confidence ($0) RSVP by 5/15*
Friday, May 22nd, 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Presented by Glenna Peck
Description: Life often surprises us with unexpected challenges. While we anticipate changes like stiff joints, weight fluctuations, or increased fatigue as we age, other hurdles such as health issues or hair loss can catch us off guard. Glenna at Crown of Confidence offers support to women experiencing hair loss by providing a range of wig options, helping build self-assurance. Attend this presentation and wig demonstration. Personal consultations, which include confidence coaching, can be scheduled with Glenna.
Senior Picnic ($0) RSVP by 5/22*
Friday, May 29th at 12:00 noon
Description: We are pleased to invite you to our second annual Senior Picnic. This complimentary event serves as an expression of gratitude to all Darke County Seniors.
This year, the event is scheduled earlier in hopes of more comfortable weather conditions. Attendees will receive a complimentary boxed picnic lunch. There will be indoor activities including bingo and card games, while outdoor yard games will also be available. Representatives from local businesses will be present, offering swag and providing prizes to be given away. Memberships—both new and renewal—can be obtained at the door for $2 during this fiscal year.
Lunch & Learn ($0) RSVP by 5/21*
Thursday, May 28th, at 12:00 noon
Presented by Versailles Rehab & Healthcare
Description: Representatives from the Versailles Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center will provide a presentation that includes lunch. Learn more about this facility that provides a comprehensive range of services, including post-acute care, long-term care, memory care, and respite care. Ask questions about their VA contract and specialized programs such as orthopedic rehabilitation, vestibular and balance therapy, Parkinson’s disease management, stroke recovery, cardiac care, and pulmonary care.
*Those interested in attending an event are required to RSVP for all events by signing up at the Senior Center or contacting Wally at (508) 789-3884 or Mary at (937) 423-2565. Any class with a fee has to be prepaid at the time of registration, otherwise it will be considered void.
MAY
01 – Friday – REFIT® 10:30 – 11:15 am
01 – Friday – Advanced Computer Class 11:30 am – 12:30 pm Class is full
01 – Friday – Beginner Computer Classes 1:15 – 2:00 pm Class is full
04 – Monday – Painting with Bree Intro to Watercolors ($8) 10am – 12pm RSVP & prepayment by 4/27*
04 – Monday – Full Plate Living 1 – 2:30 pm (Limited class size) RSVP by 4/27*
04 – Monday – Senior Citizens Walking Club 6:00 pm
05 – Tuesday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am
05 – Tuesday – Game Day 1:00 – 3:00 pm
05 – Tuesday – Letters by John & Abigail Adams 3:30 – 5:00 pm RSVP by 4/29*
06 – Wednesday – REFIT® 10:30 – 11:15 am
06 – Wednesday – Beginner Line Dancing ($5) Noon
06 – Wednesday – Line Dancing ($5) 1:00 – 3:00 pm
07 – Thursday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am
07 – Thursday – Free Bingo with Mary Rader 11:30 – 12:30 pm
07 – Thursday – Movie & Popcorn: “The Thin Man” beginning at 1:00 pm
08 – Friday – REFIT® 10:30 – 11:15 am
08 – Friday – Senior Soothe Me ($10) 11:30 am – 2:00 pm RSVP asap*
11 – Monday – Painting with Bree Intro to Acrylics ($8) 10am – 12pm RSVP & prepayment by 5/04*
11 – Monday – Full Plate Living 1 – 2:30 pm (Limited class size) [class full]
11 – Monday – Senior Citizens Walking Club 6:00 pm *meet at the cemetery
12 – Tuesday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am
12 – Tuesday – Taiko Presentation 11:30 am– 12:15 pm RSVP by 5/5*
12 – Tuesday – Game Day 1:00 – 3:00 pm
13 – Wednesday – REFIT® 10:30 – 11:15 am
13 – Wednesday – Beginner Line Dancing ($5) Noon
13 – Wednesday – Line Dancing ($5) 1:00 – 3:00 pm
14 – Thursday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am
14 – Thursday – Getting to Know You 11:30 – 12:30 pm
14 – Thursday – “Mental Health Matters” beginning at 1:00 pm RSVP by 5/7*
15 – Friday – REFIT® 10:30 – 11:15 am
15 – Friday – Ladies Tea/Fashions of Yesteryear ($10) beginning at 1:00 pm RSVP & prepayment by 5/1*
18 – Monday – Painting with Bree Mixed Media ($8) 10am – 12pm RSVP & prepayment by 5/11*
18 – Monday – Full Plate Living 1 – 2:30 pm (Limited class size) [class full]
18 – Monday – Senior Citizens Walking Club 6:00 pm *meet at the cemetery
19 – Tuesday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am
19 – Tuesday – Game Day 1:00 – 3:00 pm
20 – Wednesday – REFIT® 10:30 – 11:15 am
20 – Wednesday – Beginner Line Dancing ($5) Noon
20 – Wednesday – Line Dancing ($5) 1:00 – 3:00 pm
21 – Thursday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am
21 – Thursday – Getting to Know You 11:30 – 12:30 pm
21 – Thursday – Summer Beauties Porch Pots ($5) beginning at 1:00 pm RSVP & prepayment by 5/14*
22 – Friday – REFIT® 10:30 – 11:15 am
22 – Friday – Crown of Confidence Wig Demonstration 11:30 am – 1:00 pm RSVP by 5/15*
25 – Monday – MEMORIAL DAY/NO ACTIVITIES – Enjoy the day!
26 – Tuesday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am
26 – Tuesday – Game Day 1:00 – 3:00 pm
27 – Wednesday – REFIT® 10:30 – 11:15 am
27 – Wednesday – Beginner Line Dancing ($5) Noon
27 – Wednesday – Line Dancing ($5) 1:00 – 3:00 pm
28 – Thursday – Chair Yoga 10:30 – 11:15 am
28 – Thursday – Lunch & Learn by Versailles Health & Rehab beginning at 12:00 pm RSVP by 5/21*
29 – Friday – (No REFIT) Senior Picnic beginning at 12:00 pm RSVP by 5/22*
*RSVP and questions should be directed to Wally at (508) 789-3884 or Mary at (937) 423-2565.
All events are held at the Birchwood Senior Center, 5844 Jaysville-St. Johns Rd, Greenville unless otherwise indicated. These events are open to anyone 55+ and a valid membership with the DC Center. Membership is $2 annually. Those interested in attending an event are required to RSVP for all events by signing up at the Senior Center or contacting Wally at (508) 789-3884 or Mary at (937) 423-2565. Any class with a fee has to be prepaid at the time of registration, otherwise it will be considered void.
