Celebrating half a century of support
By Patte Smith; courtesy photos
In 1971, a group of seniors in the Castle Rock area gathered at the Blue Flame Room on Wilcox Street to play games, plan activities, and enjoy potlucks together. During the following years more seniors joined the group and new friendships were formed. This was the beginning of what would become the Castle Rock Senior Activity Center (CRSAC) where individuals over 50 find fellowship, friendship, and fun.
Fast forward to July 9, 2021 – CRSAC celebrated its 50-year anniversary. The celebration was held at the Philip S. Miller amphitheater in Castle Rock, and CRSAC members enjoyed live music by Shelvis and the Roustabouts, special giveaways and lunch. The nonprofit organization has grown its membership from a few individuals to more than 1,000 members.
Castle Rock Mayor Jason Gray, the Chamber of Commerce, CRSAC Board of Directors and staff presented lifetime awards and a 50th Anniversary Challenge asking each member to donate $50 to support CRSAC. Members of the senior center were asked to fill out “Golden Thoughts” for the future and these were then placed in a 2021 Time Capsule that will be sealed and opened in 2031.
“The celebration was very special being able to gather together after this past year,” noted Debbi Haynie, executive director of CRSAC. “It was an honor to receive the inaugural Nonprofit of the Year Award proclaimed by Mayor Jason Gray and Pam Ridler from the Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce.”
The center offers programs all over the Denver metro area. Members participate in the community, try new things, stay active in sports and exercise, join in special interest groups, share meals together, laugh and have a good time. Special services and wellness activities are also offered and CRSAC has a transportation program to help members continue to live independently. Volunteers are key to keeping the center successful for years to come.
Support for the center comes from the Town of Castle Rock, Douglas County, the Eagles and the Lions organizations, the local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and many personal donations.
For more information, visit www.castlerockseniorcenter.org.
