At the heart of the Van Buren Township Senior Center is a community of people who truly care for one another. It’s a place where seniors are encouraged to be active members in both their own lives and the community, with plenty of fun and connection along the way.

Recently retired Senior Center Programmer Marylynn Balewski explained that senior centers have evolved over time, becoming multifaceted spaces that meet a wide range of needs.

“In the past, many people thought of senior centers as places where people come to play cards or games, but now they’re much more than that,” she said. “Our seniors can come to play games, exercise, find help on navigating taxes, borrow medical equipment, receive referrals for community services and so much more.”

At its core, the Center serves as a welcoming social space for Van Buren Township seniors. Whether stopping by for an exercise class, some friendly competition over a board game or just a casual chat with others, members have access to the Center’s services seven days a week.

“The world outside can sometimes feel lonely or overwhelming, but I hope that when our members walk through our doors, those feelings fade, even if just for a little while.” Balewski said.

With more than 900 current members, the Center is a thriving place for seniors to stay active and engaged on their own terms, with a wide variety of programs designed to accommodate a range of abilities.

From pool tables and organized pool leagues to newer offerings like “Fun and Games at the Center”, which features cornhole, ping pong, foam based axe throwing and more, there is something for everyone to take part in.

Balewski said that one of the biggest factors contributing to people’s independence is transportation.

“One thing we all have in common is that, whether we like it or not, we are all aging,” she said.

As people age, the ability to drive may decline, making it more difficult to travel independently.

Realizing this, the Senior Center has made transportation a priority. In addition to medical transportation services, the Center offers rides for bingo on Fridays as well as a new program called Operation Pick ‘Em Up, which started in October of last year and runs on Mondays to bring seniors to the Center.

Operation Pick ‘Em Up serves seniors who can no longer drive. They’re picked up from their homes and brought to the Center, where they can enjoy a congregate meal through Wayne County’s Meals on Wheels program and spend the day socializing with others.

The Van Buren Senior center is proudly member driven. Memberships start at just $20 for township residents, and there are a wide range of programs throughout the year for members 62+ to enjoy.

For more information, visit www.vbtmi.gov/community/
senior_center/, call (734) 699-8918 or visit the Van Buren
Community Center at 46425 Tyler Road.

The Van Buren Senior Center is an important part of what makes Van Buren Township such a wonderful place to live, work and retire. Home to more than 900 senior members, the Center reflects the wide range of interests, talents and lifestyles that make our senior community so special. Whether you enjoy staying active, socializing with friends or learning something new, there truly is something here for everyone.

Members can participate in a variety of exercise and wellness classes, enjoy friendly competition in pool leagues, bingo and card games, or simply relax and connect with others during our daily meal programs.

Beyond our regular activities, the Senior Center offers special events, educational programs and opportunities to build meaningful friendships in a welcoming and supportive environment.

The Van Buren senior community is an active, vibrant group of individuals who enjoy trying new things, staying engaged and making the most of each day. If you haven’t visited us yet, now is the perfect time to come explore all that the Van Buren Senior Center has to offer we look forward to welcoming you.

Current Membership is required to take part in the following programs:

Senior Power Hour

If you have visited the Van Buren Community Center, you may have passed by the Fitness Area. Inside, you will find more than 40 pieces of exercise equipment: large machines with multiple moving parts, handles to pull and levers to push.

For many members, this can feel overwhelming at first glance, and it is not uncommon to walk right past simplybecause the equipment appears unfamiliar or intimidating. If you have ever felt unsure about where to begin or how to use the equipment safely, you are not alone. Fellow members, Lee and Robert, are available to share their knowledge and experience, offering friendly guidance and encouragement. As peer mentors, they are available to help other members build confidence, learn proper machine use and feel comfortable taking that first step toward a healthier, more active lifestyle together, as a supportive community.

Tuesday and Thursday | 9 to 10 a.m.


Fun and Games at the Senior Center

The Senior Center is the place to be for laughter, lighthearted competition and good old-fashioned fun. The beanbags are soaring, the ping pong balls are bouncing, and the excitement is in the air! Whether you’re a sharpshooting pro with a winning strategy or a curious firsttimer ready to give it a whirl, the games are open to all. So, grab a friend (or make a new one right here) and join the fun!

Wednesdays | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.


Scrabble Club

Connect with fellow members for a monthly gathering dedicated to the classic board and tile game, Scrabble. Originally invented in 1938 during the Great Depression by unemployed New York architect Alfred Mosher Butts, Scrabble was designed to offer Americans a source of entertainment during challenging times. Decades later, it remains one of the most popular board games in the United States. Scrabble boards and dictionaries will be provided.

Second Wednesday of the month | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m