Last week, I took a stroll down memory lane and visited one of Hennessey’s hidden gems: the Sr. Community Center. I have a personal connection to the center, as my mother was its coordinator back in the day. I enjoyed some lunch while reminiscing with old friends. We chatted about the birthday parties, graduation parties, and reunions that were held at the center.
My sons also have fond memories of visiting their grandmother and making friends with a different generation. I was reminded of all the activities the center has to offer the community. In addition to lunch, you can participate in spirited card games, play dominos, or even enjoy a game of pool. I learned there is a walking group and exercise classes coming soon. We exchanged favorite recipes and brainstormed more activity ideas.
If you’d like to order takeout or a delivered meal, you can call 405-853-6726 by 10:00 AM. You’re also welcome to come in, enjoy a meal, and see what’s happening at the center. The center always appreciates the donations it receives from the community. For instance, the generosity of Hennessey’s residents recently allowed for the replacement of a freezer that had stopped working. Other donations, especially in the form of memorials, go towards meeting the everyday needs of the center.
There is no age limit for those who attend the center. One particular story from my visit warmed my heart and gave me hope for the next generation. Did you know that Hennessey has three new heroes walking around town? Lavonne is the coordinator at the center, and on this day, she had her three great-grandchildren visiting: Madi and Kenzi, who are 12-year-old twins, and their little brother Holden, who is 7.
During this visit, Lavonne took a fall, but her grandchildren acted quickly and calmly. They got a pillow for her head and a blanket to keep her comfortable, and they made a call that brought the Hennessey Calvary to the rescue! Holden, who witnessed the incident, has been known to reenact his grandmother’s mishap. Lavonne suffered a broken hip, but the good news is that she is recovering nicely and hopes to return to work soon. Lavonne is one determined lady!
If you happen to run into our three local heroes, please let them know how well they managed a tough situation. In the meantime, volunteers have stepped in to help at the center. If you’re hungry for lunch and have a desire to join in on a card game, there will surely be room at the table! There’s always someone to visit with, and the day I was there, many memories were revisited. I even heard a story that was new to me!
I encourage everyone to reach out, grab a friend, and come for an afternoon. We all experience loss, and sometimes the gift of friendship can help heal ourselves. The Sr. Community Center is a perfect place to share your heart! After all, you are the reason they are here. Let’s keep making memories; they are our gift to each other!
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