From the Director
Life doesn’t get any easier…it seems that just when we think we’ve got life sorted out another curve ball comes – a fall, home challenges, medical needs or family changes. Sometimes something as minor as a car breakdown can shift your plans and opportunities dramatically. Thanks to the foresight of generations before us, the Yellow Springs Senior Center has developed into a source of help for life’s changes. We were initiated by a charge from Village Council in 1959.
I’ve been going through old records and found that in 1970 our budget was only about $30K, and the Village was supporting about a third of our costs during that decade. As I write this, the Village is determining if they can fund YSSC in their 2026 budget, and it seems that if they will, Miami Township may follow their lead. Even though the Village initiated YSSC over 60 years ago, they have not funded us in over 40 years.
At this time of year, we’re all getting frequent solicitations from organizations that need your support. Annual Appeal donations to YSSC make up almost 20% of our income and allow us to maintain the programs that serve the community. The most significant expense we have is payroll for our amazing staff, even with everyone but me working only part-time hours. (It is astounding what gets accomplished on those limited hours!) The Annual Appeal fund is NOT for the new building, it is support we need just to cover our operating expenses. You can read this year’s letter at ysseniors.org/annual-appeal.
The support of our donors in other ways has helped us stay afloat even with some very challenging budget issues. We have been grateful for grants from GCCOA, the YS Community Foundation and the Dayton Foundation that support our projects, programs and operations. Last year an “angel” donor surprised us with a large gift that helped make it possible to purchase our Transit van.
Having been included in estate plans over the years has made a significant, lasting impact for YSSC. We have been able to have some reserve funds over the years and fund some special projects. We are proud to be an avenue for someone to leave behind a legacy of care for the community. We have relied on those reserve funds sometimes to cover those curve balls I mentioned before.
When things change, we’re here for you. We’ve been preparing for your needs for over 66 years, longer than some of us have been around. Keep YSSC in mind as your resource site, social connection, place to learn new skills, advocates and a collective of some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. I’d be glad to hear any ideas you have for how we can continue to serve and grow.
– Caroline Mullin, Executive Director
937-767-5751 x 101, cmullin@ysseniors.org
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NEWS FLASH
The YSSC Board has initiated the potential sale of our current building, which we own, with an intention to lease it for our use until we are ready to move into our new building.
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Thank You
To our Square Dance sponsors: Village Solar, Reichley Insurance Agency, Henderson Hudson Dezign, and Three Ten Bed & Breakfast. Thanks also to the band The Corndrinkers and square dance caller Ceal Turnbull!
| | Use the buttons below to visit our website for the most up-to-date information about our classes and groups. | |
Upcoming Events & New Activities | |
Village Voices
3rd Thursday, 7 pm
Nov. 20: The Rev. Madet Merove, a pastor at the Covenant United Methodist Church in Springfield and CEO of the Haitian Community Solidarity and Support nonprofit, will present “An Update on the Haitian Community in Springfield.”
Dec. 18: Cancelled for December.
Programs meet in the Great Room and Zoom. To get the Zoom link, register on MyActiveCenter.com, call 937-767-5751, or email info@ysseniors.org.
Brunch Bunch
1st Tuesday, 11 am
Either meet at the John Bryan parking lot at 10:30 am to ride in the Transit Van ($5 suggested donation) or meet at the restaurant at 11 am. RSVP to Maggie one week prior if possible, so group reservations can be made.
Nov. 4: Clifton Mill, 75 Water St. in Clifton.
Dec. 2: Nick’s, 1443 N Detroit St. in Xenia.
Events
Yellow Springs Brewery Non-Profit Wednesdays
Wed., 5–7 pm in Nov. & Dec. starting Nov. 5
The Yellow Springs Brewery at 305 N. Walnut St. will donate $1 to YSSC from every full beer pull on Wednesdays from 5–7 pm in November and December.
YS History Bus Tour
Mon., Nov. 10, 1–3 pm
Kevin McGruder from the 365 Project leads this tour. There’s a suggested $25 donation ($20 to 365 Project and $5 for YSSC van use). Maximum of 11 participants, register with Maggie and meet at the John Bryan Center parking lot at 12:45 pm.
YS Brewery Tour
Wed., Nov. 12, 4–5:30 pm
Join us for another tour of the production facility at the YS Brewery at 305 Walnut St. and stay for Happy Hour afterwards. Register with Maggie.
YS High School Holiday Luncheon
Thurs., Dec. 4, 10:30 am–1 pm
This annual event features food, giveaways, live music, and holiday magic. RSVP to 937-767-7225 or KLewis@YSSchools.org by Dec. 1.
Ukulele Christmas Singalong
Sun. Dec. 7, 2-3:30 pm
Lyrics will be projected so everyone can join the singing, or just listen. Anyone who has a ukulele is welcome to bring it. Cookies and good company will be provided. Enter at the red door by the carport.
Holly Days & Wheat Penny
Thurs., Dec. 11, 3–7 pm
We’re returning to Holly Days at the Dayton Arcade then dinner at the Wheat Penny restaurant at 5:30 pm. Meet at the John Bryan Center parking lot at 2:30 pm to ride in the Transit Van ($5 suggested donation). Register with Maggie by December 4.
Cookie Decorating Party
Fri., Dec. 12, 2–4 pm
Decorate cookies for yourself or to give as a gift.
Classes & Workshops
Dancing With Dawn
Mon., Nov. 3 & Dec. 1, 11 am
On the first Monday of November and December Dawn Clark will offer a gentle, slow moving integration of yoga, modern dance, and ballet with accommodations made for all levels of ability.
Community Games
Mon., 1:30–3:30 pm
The Community Games on Mondays afternoons now includes Euchre and a beginning Mahjong group! The beginning Mahjong can accommodate up to three people who must register with Maggie.
Phonophobia
Thurs., 10–11:30 am
Debra Williamson leads this six-week workshop to teach people how to get comfortable with their phone’s functionality. Maximum of eight people. Bring your phone, charger, and passwords to help you get started. Register with Maggie.
Monthly Zentangles
Fri., Nov. 21 & Dec. 18, 2 pm
Monthly Zentangle workshop on the third Friday led by Dione Greenberg. $15 per class for materials. Register with Maggie.
Zentangle® Holiday Card & Gift Wrap Workshop
Fri., Dec. 5, 2–4:30 pm, Great Room
Led by Dione Greenberg for participants to learn to make stamps using Zentangle patterns to create cards and wrapping paper for the holiday season. $35 includes supplies to continue using. Maximum of 10 participants, register with Maggie by Dec. 1.
John Bryan Community Pottery Projects
Raku Fired Pumpkin on Tuesdays, Nov. 11 & 18 from 12–2 pm for $45 per person and Build a Holiday Tree on Wednesdays, Dec. 3 & 10 from 12–2 pm for $45 per person, both at John Bryan Community Pottery. Register with Maggie.
| Register for classes and events at MyActiveCenter.com, 937-767-5751, or info@ysseniors.org | |
We Were There
A play showcasing the voices of women who served in Vietnam will be at the Foundry Theater, 920 Corry St., on Saturday and Sunday, November 1 and 2 at 2 pm. The event, which honors these women on the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, is free but donations are accepted.
Grocery Delivery
The Senior Center shops for groceries weekly from Tom’s Market for anyone homebound due to transportation, mobility, or health issues. Deliveries are on Fridays and orders are due by 11 am on Thursdays. Orders are accepted one of three ways:
• e-mail to info@ysseniors.org
• ysseniors.org/grocery-delivery-program
• calling 937-767-5751 Mon.–Fri. 9:30 am–4 pm
A Credit Card/Debit Card/EBT card is used. This is a free service; donations gratefully accepted.
Kroger Rewards
If you shop at Kroger you can designate YSSC as your “Kroger Rewards” organization. Our number is RU161. There are directions on our website about how to register at ysseniors.org/kroger-rewards.
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Members Art Show
Nov 6–Dec 19, 2025
Reception:
Fri., Nov 14, 4–6 pm
| | The Members Art Show will be in YSSC Fireplace Room Gallery from November 6–December 19 with a reception Friday, November 14 from 4–6 pm. Above: “Trees” pottery by Karla Bristow. | |
Greene County Council on Aging
Brain Blast
Greene County Council on Aging presents a fun afternoon for Greene County adults (50 and better) to enjoy a bit of food and drink, some socializing with great people, and a light-hearted but educational brain workout on Wednesday, November, 12 from 2–4 pm. The cost to participate is a food pantry item and reservations are required.
Holiday Open House & Gift Shoppe
The Greene County Council on Aging’s Holiday Gift Soiree will be held on Wednesday, December 10 from 2–6 pm and Thursday, December 11 from 11 am–6 pm at the GCCOA offices, 1195 W. 2nd St. in Xenia. Meet the staff and purchase unique handcrafted items and homemade treats. Free admission and no reservations needed.
Other GCCOA Events
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Caregiver Support Group: Mondays, Nov. 3 and Dec. 1 (first Mondays) from 6–7:30 pm at the First Presbyterian Church in Yellow Springs.
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Grief & Loss Group: Mondays, Nov. 10 and Dec. 8 (the second Monday) from 10 am–noon at Peace Lutheran Church in Beavercreek.
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Memory Loss, Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease: Wednesday, Nov. 19 from 2:30– 4:30 pm at the Xenia Community Center (XCC) next door to the GCCOA Office.
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Medicare 101: Wednesday, Dec. 17, 3–4:30 pm at the Xenia Community Center (XCC) next door to the GCCOA Office.
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Legal Chat: Thursday, Nov. 20 (third Thursdays) at 2:30 pm at Peace Lutheran Church, 3530 Dayton-Xenia Road, Beavercreek. Enter at lower level door with awning.
Contact GCCOA with questions or to register for these events at 937-376-5486 or send an email to YourFriends@gccoa.org. Information is also available on their website at gccoa.org.
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Calendar
Use the buttons below to visit the calendar our website or MyActiveCenter for the most up-to-date information about our classes and events.
To participate in virtual classes and events using Zoom, you must register through their account on MyActiveCenter. Zoom links are emailed to participants one hour prior.
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Medicare Enrollment
It’s Open Enrollment season and you have until December 7 to review your prescription drug plan or Medicare Advantage plan and make changes if needed. It is important to review your plan, because coverages change from year to year. I can assist you in reviewing your current plan, comparing options, and signing up for a new plan. There is a form to be filled out prior to your appointment at ysseniors.org/medicare or pick up a paper form at the Center. The help you receive from the Senior Center is provided by OSHIIP volunteers and is unbiased, free, and not based on a commission.
The Homestead Exemption Program provides seniors, surviving spouses, and disabled persons who meet certain criteria a reduction in their real estate taxes. The application, which must be filed by December 31, 2025 can be downloaded from greenecountyohio.gov/388/Homestead-Exemption.
– Stephanie Lawson, RN, Support Services Manager
937-767-5751 x108, slawson@ysseniors.org
The Best Teacher
Gaius Julius Caesar 100 BC–44 BC was a Roman General and Statesman and by many referred to as the greatest conqueror ever. He attributed the quote “Ut est rerum omnium magiste usus.” Roughly translated: experience is the best teacher. A common saying regarding learning and leadership.
As the Manager of the Homemaker Program here at the Senior Center, I am responsible for getting care to many seniors in our community, whether that involves cooking, cleaning, running errands or general companionship. I have done this for many years; and I hope that it was received with the genuine care and sympathy which I intended.
Now I see things through a different lens. After the experience of being in the hospital and rehab, and in general needing so much for what seemed like an eternity but was only about 6 weeks, I have empathy. In truth my heart cries out for those who are without support as I had so much of an outpouring of support. As a caring community please let those who may not know all the Senior Center has to offer. Not just the homemaking, we loan medical equipment for free, and we have programs and field trips. If there is something you would like to see the Center offer, let us know – we may be able to provide it. We are here and happy to serve the Yellow Springs community.
–Teresa Bondurant, Homemaker & Outreach Manager
937-767-5751 x107, tbondurant@ysseniors.org
On the Road Again – Again and Again!
The YSSC Community has always been on the move – happy wanderers trekking to new restaurants, museums, exotic marketplaces. On a recent outing, thirteen YSSC members – plus one grandchild – met at the John Bryan Center. With 12 on board our new Shuttle, we still needed to commandeer one additional car due to the great turnout. The excitement of neighbors and friends (mostly) traveling together was quite palpable. The trip ultimately offered unexpected twists and turns – but the spirited adventurers laughed off every obstacle and had so much fun that day! The best part? We can now do this as often as we like!
For many seniors, driving outside of the village is simply not an option. And, while YSSC has three other vehicles in the fleet, they are routinely in motion for medical and wellness appointments. Having the new Ford Transit has allowed for a much safer and congenial means to share and enjoy our mini escapades together – all thanks to funds provided by GCCOA and an anonymous donor (ask about the heart-shaped daisy in tribute to our “angel” donor).
The Big Van adds a new and welcome dimension on the many ways YSSC directly impacts the lives of Villagers through our many activities. Our Transportation Program alone leaves town 15 times a week for medical appointments near and far. In 2025 Nearly 30 Volunteer Drivers have contributed over 1,500 hours of service for friends and neighbors through September. Is there a quantifiable value, a qualitative assessment by which we might better appreciate their impact in strengthening the fabric of our community – one ride at a time? We are all so grateful for all they do throughout the year.
As we approach a season where much thank-fulness is expressed around the table, let’s take a moment to fathom how many volunteer acts – in community programs, places of faith, schools, and those helping hands on our street – weave so much joy and enthusiasm into the tapestry of our lives.
For more information about opportunities to ride or volunteer with YSSC, call Maggie or Robert at 937-767-5751.
– Robert Libecap, Transportation Manager
937-767-5751 x104, rlibecap@ysseniors.org
– Maggie Dean, Activities & Volunteer Coordinator
937-767-5751 x109, mdean@ysseniors.org
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A BIG THANK YOU!
End of year thanks to volunteers – some work in the building, some lead classes, others drive passengers or make grocery deliveries. The over 5000 hours of unpaid labor provide much of the service of our organization. We apologize to anyone whose name was accidentally omitted.
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Amy Achor
Ven Adkins
Susan Alberter
Teresa Alvarez
Dinah Anderson
Kate Anderson
Dave Anthony
Reena Appell
Sada Ashby Sutherland
Diana Atkins
Sue Augustus
Brianna Ayers
Sarah Badger
Jim Bailey
Ryan Beach
Jill Becker
Angela Beltran
Sara Beltran
Amy Bennett
Jack Bernstein
Shelly Blackman
Jane Blakelock
Annie Blanchard
Dale Blanchard
Michael Blevins
Andree Bognar
Beth Borchers
Sherry Borke-Harding
Susan Bothwell
Bruce Bradtmiller
Karla Bristow
Andrew Brody
Emily Brucker
Alan Brunsman
Vivian Bryan
Jerry Buck
Kathy Buck
Steve Bujenovic
Debbie Bush
Deja Bush
Arati Cacciolfi
Mary Cargan
Berch Carpenter
David Casenhiser
Sukai Ceesay
Ralita Hildebrand Chambers
Amy Chavez
Diane Chiddister
Dawn Clark
Ken Coleman
Connie Collett
Dianne Collinson
Robert Conard
Corndrinkers
Linda Cox
Mark Crawford
Lisa Dalga
Ed Davis
Shiloh Deal
Steven Deal
Tom Degenhart
Mark Delozier
Simone Demarzi
Celia Diamond
Susan Doubt
Rosalie Douglas
Debbie Downey
Margaret Dunn
Tracy Elzy
Arida Emrys
Jim Felder
Dave Finster
Joy Fishbain
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Simon Freeman
Susan Freeman
Larry Gerthoffer
Misty Gill
Georgiana Gomez
Valerie Gomez
Dave Goode
Dione Greenberg
Linda Griffith
Cammy Grote
James Grote
Wayne Gulden
Gayle Gyure
Karen Hammond
Lynda Hardman
Lynn Hardman
Amy Harper
Heartstrings
David Heckler
Luan Heit
Debbie Henderson
Marie Hertzler
Melissa Heston
Kristine Hofstra
Anna Hogarty
Andy Holyoke
Beth Holyoke
Jon Hudson
Lee Huntington
Bob Huston
Kim Iconis
Artie Isaac
Frank Jennings
Sandee Jessen
Jim Johnson
Judy Johnson
Katherine Kadish
Charles Keller
Bette Kelley
Scott Kellogg
Bill Kent
Jo Ann Kiser
Mia Knight
Deb Kociszewski
Peggy Koebernick
Michael Kraus
Melissa Kuhns
John Lane
Sally Lane
Fran LaSalle
Moira Laughlin
Pegeen Laughlin
Hannah Lawson
Stephanie Lawson
Barbara Leeds
Skip Leeds
Grace LeftHand-Jennings
Erin Leigh
Jim Leonard
Gabriele Leventhal
Todd Leventhal
Brock Lubbers
Maureen Lynch
Laura Lucas
Farzaneh Mader
Barbara Mann
Chloe Manor
Rebecca Mark
Ellen Marshall
Sara Martin
Velda Martin
Linda Mates
James Mayer
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Matan Mazursky
Patty McAllister
Dr. Kevin McGruder
Sandy McHugh
Larry McKever
Nancy Mellon
Marian Miller
Eliza Minde Berman
Maxwell Mullin
Paul Mullin
Chris Murphy
Henry Myers
Sue Neff
Karen Nelson
Sharen Neuhardt
Desiree Nickell
Karama Noaks
Dr. Paulette Olson
Harvey Paige
Jerry Papania
Laura Pardo
Thais Pardo
Linda Parsons
Cyndi Pauwels
Diana Quirk
Luka Rao
Hope Reger
Macy Reynolds
Roger Reynolds
Julie Howell Richardson
Marcia Ridgley
Dorothy Rike
Pat Robinow
Bonnie Rodriguez
Jay Rothman
Randi Rothman
Libby Rudolf
Don Sak
Haley Sauder
Al Schlueter
Jalyn Scott
Linda Scutt
Linda Sikes
Talon Silverhorn
Judith Skillings
Maxine Skuba
Michael Slaughter
Meg Smallwood
Gary Stevens
Marcia Sutherland
Jerry Sutton
Patty Tindall
Bobbi Treadwell
Greg Treadwell
David Turner
Holly Underwood
Richard Vanstrum
Malte von Matthiessen
Aamil Wagner
Ahmad Wagner
Amani Wagner
Pete Wehner
Marianne Whelchel
Elizabeth Wiley
Jay Williams
Debra Williamson
Matthew Willis
Susan Wolf
Lin Wood
YSSC Ukulele Class
Sam Young
Richard Zopf
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Welcome NEW Members!
Paul VanAusdal
Claudia Fett
Barbara Forster
Jill Hope
Janice Johnson
Jeanne & John Mbagwu
Sasha Newstate
Shernaz Reporter
Mary Taylor
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Heartstrings & Friends Holiday Concert
The musical group Heartstrings will present a holiday season concert at the Senior Center on Saturday, December 13 at 4 pm. The musicians, Mary Beth Burkholder, Linda Scutt and Carol VanAusdal perform instrumental and vocal music from the Celtic, Appalachian and Scandinavian traditions. Joining them will be guest musicians Mark Delozier, Asa Duffee, Cammy Grote, and Paul VanAusdal. Complimentary refreshments will be provided. Suggested donation of $20 benefits the Senior Center.
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The Yellow Springs Senior Center newsletter is published every other month, coming out at the end of the even numbered months. Copy deadline is the 1st of even numbered months. PDF versions of this and past issues can be found on the website.
All YSSC members also receive a hard copy mailed to their home. Memberships are $25 annually with $15 for each additional member and are due in January. Make checks payable to YSSC and mail to: YSSC, 227 Xenia Ave., Yellow Springs, OH, 45387 or use the button below to go to the website to pay with a credit card.
Email updates are sent weekly and the eNewsletter is sent every other month.
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