Center

Connections

July/August 2026

How to Reach Us

Lovie Cherry

Center 55+ Program Manager

lcherry@nhpdx.org

503-482-1405


Eric Duckett

Shuttle Bus Driver

educkett@nhpdx.org


Senior Center Hours:

9:00am - 3:30pm

Tuesday - Friday

503-244-5204


Address:

8959 SW Barbur Blvd, Portland, Oregon 97219


Membership:

$50/year, age 55+


Greetings Neighbors!

We are officially open for membership!

Stop in to sign up for membership starting July 1st. We are excited to offer new programing for the summer. Keep an eye out on our website and social media for more updates and information!


This month, there’s a lot of excitement at The Center 55+. We’re excited to officially launch Movie Days at The Center, Conversations on Aging, and a new Book Club, while also adding a Cardio, Strength & Stretch Class to help support healthy aging and wellness. Plus, we’re delighted to announce the return of Brunch at The Center 55+ and Song Circle


Please read below for more details about what’s happening at The Center 55+ and all the exciting opportunities coming your way!


Closure Notice: We will be closed Friday, July 3rd

Transportation services will continue as normal. Please stay tuned for more updates and announcements coming soon!

Join Us for Conversations on Aging!

Conversation on Aging group meeting in our activity room.

Hosted by Portland Parks & Recreation here at The Center 55+, these engaging conversations provide a welcoming space to discuss important topics related to aging, well-being, and planning for the future. See below for details and upcoming dates.


Let's Talk About End-of-Life Decisions

July 23 at 2:00 PM

Considering end-of-life realities can be overwhelming and easy to put off. Let's come together to discuss planning ahead, asking important questions, and exploring thoughts and feelings surrounding these decisions. Please note: This VIEWS Conversation does not provide legal advice. Instead, it offers a safe and supportive environment to explore and share feelings, fears, and perspectives related to end-of-life issues.


Healthy Aging

August 26 at 2:00 PM

Following a healthy aging routine takes focus and dedication. Let's discuss ways to stay physically and mentally active, maintain healthy eating habits, and cultivate a positive outlook to improve our overall quality of life. We look forward to seeing you at these meaningful conversations and connecting with others in our community.

New Class: Cardio, Strength & Stretch Class!

Thursdays 9:30 - 10 AM through Aug 20, 2026


This 1-hour class addresses the whole body with a balance of lower and upper body movement and strength exercises. There are a variety of standing and seated exercises. If you have your own hand weights or stretch resistance bands please bring them. This is a low to medium intensity class with encouragement to modify positions/activity as needed.


Marilyn Cony - has been teaching classes her entire adult life. She taught yoga for 20 years. She’s enjoyed teaching physical therapy classes as a PT Assistant for 16+ years. And she also taught children’s art classes in younger days.  

Welcome Our New Friend Echo!  

"In case we haven’t had a chance to meet. My name is Echo and I am the new program coordinator at the Center 55+.


My role is to help support volunteers at the center as well as help develop new programming.


When I’m not at The Center, you can find me traveling or hanging out with my four cats. I can’t wait to get to know you!" 


We are beyond thrilled to have Echo join us! They bring a wealth of prior senior center experience and have already been a wonderful addition to The Center 55+ team.


The next time you're at The Center, be sure to stop by and say hello!

New Activities Coming Soon at The Center!

Join us for a variety of engaging programs this summer. There's something for everyone—from movies and books to meaningful conversations and music!


Book Club

July 22 at 11:00 AM

The Center is excited to launch a new Book Club!

Our first meeting will focus on introductions and getting to know fellow readers. We will then begin discussing our first selection: They Called Us Enemy by George Takei

This bestselling graphic memoir recounts Takei's childhood experiences in U.S. incarceration camps during World War II and offers a powerful reflection on history, identity, and resilience.

Song Circle

Thursday, August 6 | 1:00 PM–2:00 PM

Join the community in song! Led by a local musician, Song Circle welcomes participants of all musical abilities. Whether you love to sing, listen, or simply enjoy being part of a musical community, everyone is welcome.

Movie Days at The Center

Grab some popcorn and join us at The Center for an afternoon movie!

Wednesday, July 8 at 1:00 PM

Remarkably Bright Creatures Follow the heartwarming story of a widowed aquarium cleaner and her unlikely friendship with a witty Pacific octopus. A touching tale of connection, healing, and discovery.

Wednesday, August 6 at 1:00 PM

MILK Based on the remarkable true story of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay man elected to public office in California. This inspiring film celebrates courage, advocacy, and community.

March & April Trip List

This trip list is written by our Shuttle Bus Driver, Eric Duckett. Please feel free to reach out to him if you have any questions or concerns.


July 6th Monday 9:30-3:00pm   

Silver Falls - FREE! 

Rescheduled as promised! Be sure to wear study shoes for the uneven ground and bring layers in case of weather changes. Views are still possible for those with mobility issues. Small cafe on site or bring lunch to eat at a picnic area along the river. 


July 8th Wednesday 6:55-9:30pm (Evening trip)  

Lakewood Theater: Hands on a Hardbody - FREE!  

Inspired by the 1997 documentary of the same name, ten working-class contestants in Longview, Texas, compete in an endurance contest at a Nissan dealership to win a new pickup truck by keeping at least one hand on the vehicle for as long as possible! With a blend of rock, folk, and country-infused songs, the musical humorously and poignantly examines themes of ambition, resilience, and the American Dream! Music by Trey Anastasio. 


July 11th Saturday 10am-1:45pm (Special Weekend Trip!)

Portland Saturday Market - FREE!

Portland Saturday Market is a thriving open air artisan craft and food market in the heart of Old Town Downtown in Portland, OR. Founded in 1974 and designated as an Oregon Heritage Tradition in 2024, PSM has been a home for local handmade artisans for over 50 years. Greg will be leading this trip, lunch will be on site.  


July 13th Monday 10:00-3:00pm 

Donkey Sanctuary - FREE!  

As the forgotten Equine, Donkeys get a bad rap, but they are smart, kind and incredibly social. This all-volunteer sanctuary attends to both the physical and mental needs of these animals while guaranteeing them a “forever” home. We’ll get a guided tour then do lunch in Oregon City.


July 16th Thursday 9:00-4:30pm  

Seaside - $10 gas fee  

Time to head back to the shore! Grab some clam chowder and saltwater taffy then visit the aquarium. Or just sit on the sand and enjoy! Come prepared for variable weather conditions, money for lunch or pack your own.


July 20th Monday 10:00-3:00pm  

Wayward Winds Lavender Farm - FREE!  

One of the largest lavender fields in Oregon. Experience everything lavender you can imagine, and some things you probably haven’t. Award-winning essential oils, plants, products, refreshments, lavender maze, and U-pick. If it can be made with this magical herb, they do it! Lunch in Newberg.


July 23rd Thursday 10:00-2:30pm 

Japanese American Museum of Oregon (JAMO) - $6 entry  

The mission of the Japanese American Museum of Oregon is to preserve and honor the history and culture of the Nikkei community - Japanese emigrants and their descendants in the Pacific Northwest - educate the public about the Japanese American experience during WWII, and advocate for the protection of civil rights for all Americans.


July 27th Monday 9:00-3:30pm  

Timberline Lodge - FREE!  

It’s wildflower season at Mt. Hood! Hike around the lodge to take in the blooms or stay inside and join the USFS tour which starts at 11am. Lunch on site or, as always, you may pack your own.


July 30th Thursday 5:00-7:00pm (Evening trip)  

City of White Salmon 9:30-3:30pm

Located across the bridge from Hood River, we will explore this quaint Washington town after enjoying the views at Cape Horn lookout on the drive in. Lunch in town or bring your own.


August 3rd Monday 9:00-5:00pm

Mt. Saint Helens National Monument- $10 gas fee 

This will be a long day! We will ride up to the west entrance of this National Monument in Washington. After an educational stop at the main Interpretive Center we’ll disembark at Coldwater Lake to walk around and have lunch. You must pack your own lunch for this trip as there isn’t enough time for a lunch stop. Please come prepared for variable weather conditions! An Annual National Park Pass for Seniors is $15 and admits 4 people.


August 6th Thursday 10:00-2:30pm  

Portland Art Museum - FREE

First free Thursday at the Portland Art Museum. Check out the latest exhibits and then grab lunch in the Central Business district. 


August 10th Monday 10:00-3:00pm  

Oregon Capitol Building, Salem - FREE!  

The renovations are finally complete! We will have some time to walk the grounds outdoors or join a tour to the observation deck at 11am (for those able to climb 121 stairs.) Afterwards we’ll all take the guided tour which meets at 11:30am under the rotunda. Then on to lunch at the Happy Bimimbop House with their great scallion pancakes and lunch specials. 


August 13th Thursday 10:45-3:00pm  

Troutdale Museums & Sugarpine Drive-In - $5 for Barn exhibit 

We will start the day with a trip to the Sandy River and grabbing lunch at Sugarpine Drive-In. They serve sandwiches and ice cream, or you can bring your own lunch and sit at the tables by the river. Afterwards we will drive a short distance into Troutdale to visit the town’s small historical museums.


August 17th Monday 9:30-3:30pm  

Trillium Lake - FREE!  

This beautiful alpine lake gives an amazing view of Mt. Hood reflected in its waters. There is a waterside trail if you’d like to stretch your legs or you can bring a camp chair and read. We’ll spend a couple hours at the lake then grab lunch in Government Camp. On the way home, if people are interested, we’ll stop for a 0.6 mile walk at Little Zig Zag falls. Good walking shoes recommended. This trip will be limited to just 5 people but will be offered again at the start of September.


August 20th Thursday 12:15-3:30pm  

Hollywood Theatre - Catch Me If You Can - FREE!  

Loosely based on a true story about con man Frank Abignal who was long pursued by the FBI. This comedy-drama is directed by Steven Spielberg and stars Tom Hanks & Leo DiCaprio. This event is sponsored by the Community for Positive Aging and, as always, includes Free Popcorn!


August 24th Monday 9:00-4:30pm  

Fort Clapsop - $10 gas fee  

Fort Clatsop was the winter encampment for the Corps of Discovery from December 1805 to March 1806. This re-creation was built in 2006. We will have time to explore the site and watch the interpretive movies. Then we’ll continue on to Astoria for lunch. 


August 27th Thursday 10:00-2:30pm  

Swan Island Dahlia Festival - FREE!  

Stroll through almost 50 acres of breathtaking fields and a beautiful display garden of stunning dahlias featuring over 375 varieties. Treat yourself to a rainbow of colors by taking photos, shopping in the mercantile, or purchasing fresh-cut dahlias to take home. Lunch in Canby. 


August 31st Monday 10:00-2:30pm   

Genealogical Society of Oregon - Special free admission!   

Home to one of the largest genealogical research libraries in Oregon, housing over 10,000 reference materials for Oregon, the United States, and around the world. Please write down the name, date and location of birth, and date of passing of parents and/or grandparents which will help volunteer docents get you started on your search. Lunch afterwards in SE. 


September 3rd Thursday 9:30-3:30   

Trillium Lake - FREE!  

See the above description. Because the original trip had limited capacity we’re offering this one again. If you were on the first trip please let others sign up for this one. Again, this will be limited to 5 peeople 

Trips: What to Remember

Sign up by calling Ride Connection 503-226-0700, to help us with an accurate count please try to sign up the week before 


● For now, trips will meet at the front entrance of the Multnomah Arts 

Center, please arrive 10min early 

● Some trips involve a lunch stop, but others do not, please read the 

description to be sure (and bring snacks regardless!) 

● Return times are estimated and are dependant on traffic & road 

conditions - please plan accordingly for your ride home 

● Questions or concerns? Text or call Eric 503-729-8783

Make A Positive Impact Today


If you like the work Neighborhood House is doing, we would love for you to be part of it! Become a monthly donor or make a one-time gift. You can help a neighbor get the support they need. Join us! 

Know someone who might be interested in the Neighborhood House Senior Center? Please forward this along!


If someone forwarded you this email, you can sign up for the Senior Center newsletter below.

Website: nhpdx.org

Phone: (503) 246-1663

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