Home Community Events Lakeland Senior Center Hosts First “Grandparents’ Day”

Lakeland Senior Center Hosts First “Grandparents’ Day”

Gus, 5, may have liked the donuts a little more than he did painting. One thing was clear though, he enjoyed every minute he spent with his Gramma (Sue Spencer) who is an active participant at LSC. Gus shared the reason he likes his Gramma is because she gives him cookies.

The Lakeland Senior Center (LSC) recently celebrated its inaugural “Grandparents’ Day,” and it was a resounding success. Participants were invited to bring their grandchildren to join in a special art class, where the kids enthusiastically painted take-home canvases to share with their families and friends. The event was filled with smiles and creativity, leaving both young and old with cherished memories.

Janice Volner (aka Gigi) of Lakeland brought her eight-year-old granddaughter, Caroline McCarley, to Grandparents’ Day for some fun. They both picked the Christmas paintings, which was an option due to the month-long Christmas in July craft event at LSC.

Given the positive response, LSC staff have announced plans to make “Grandparents’ Day” a biannual tradition, with the next event scheduled for the Lakeland School System’s Winter Break. “The idea for Grandparents’ Day came from a few of our active participants,” said Kim Odom, Senior Center and Special Events Manager for Lakeland. “Now that it’s been introduced, we’ll be planning more activities for future events. We believe it’s important for kids to see that their grandparents are making friends, staying active, and having fun just like they do. Age is no barrier.”

Lakeland Preparatory School 10th grade student, Chloe Boaz, joined her grandmother, Jamae James (aka Nana) for Grandparents Day at LSC. They also won a gift card for lunch!

During the event, each child was asked to share what they love most about their grandparent, leading to some heartwarming responses. The day was truly special, fostering bonds and creating lasting memories.

The Lakeland Senior Center is dedicated to keeping retirees active and engaged. Located at 4527 Canada Road, Lakeland, TN 38002, the Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information on upcoming activities, call (901) 746-8195.