Champaign Park District provides two locations for 50 Plus! programs:
Douglass Annex
512 E. Grove St
Champaign, IL 61820
Robert White
robert.white@champaignparks.org
Hays Recreation Center
1311 W. Church Street
Champaign, IL 61821
Jean Cousett
veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org
Membership Information
BENEFITS
-
Discounted rates on many programs at both Hays Recreation Center and Douglass Annex.
- Members get advanced early registration for the yearly senior trip.
- Free admission to several annual events plus these programs: Games, Fitness, Brown Bag Lunch Discussions, Socials, Picnics, and more.
FREEBIES FOR ALL
- Fresh coffee weekday mornings.
- Table area to play cards/gather (based on availability).
BECOME A MEMBER
It’s easy to become a member! Register at any Champaign Park District facility, and you’ll be entered into our system to automatically receive member discounts on programming. Membership is nontransferable.
- M = Member
- NM = Non-member
Fitness
CHAIR EXERCISES
Ages 50+
These exercise sessions focus on providing you with a great workout while in the support of a chair. Focus on stretch and strength, core fitness, and yoga. No matter your preference, you are sure to burn calories!
HAYS RECREATION CENTER
Year round+ | M/W | 9:30 – 10:15a
Questions: call Jean at 217-239-1152 or email at veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org
DOUGLASS ANNEX
Year round* | M/W/F | 9-10a
Questions: call Robert at 217-819-3961 or email at robert.white@champaignparks.org
No Class: May 29, June 19, June 21, August 16*; May 29+
Fee (M/NM): Free with membership/$4 per session
CARDIO WORKOUTS
Ages 50+
Health is the new wealth, and we want all our 50 Plus! participants to be rich beyond their needs. Our cardio workouts feature a mix between video and instructed classes. Don’t want to sweat? Don’t worry, you can go at your own pace while enjoying a great workout!
Year round | Tu/W | 1-2p | Douglass Annex
Fee (M/NM): Free/ $4 per session
Questions: call Robert at 217-819-3961 or email at robert.white@champaignparks.org
Enrichment
TECH TALK
Ages 50+
Whether you would like to learn about email or even troubleshoot some sort of tech, this class is perfect for you. In Tech Talk, you will have the chance to learn about computer basics, how to use your mobile device, apps, the internet, and much more.
- April 13
- May 9
- June 13
- July 11
- August 10
Day: Thursday
Time: 1-2:30p
Location: Douglass Annex
Deadline: Call and register for specific dates
Fee (M/NM): Free/$4 per session
Questions: call Robert at 217-819-3961 or email at robert.white@champaignparks.org
DOUGLASS SENIOR MEETINGS
Ages 50+
Share your great ideas with us about new programs and activities or give your thoughts on what is already offered at the Douglass Annex.
- March 21
- April 17
Day: Monday/Tuesday
Time: 1:30 -2:30p
Location: Douglass Annex
Fee (M/NM): FREE
Questions: call Robert at 217-819-3961 or email at robert.white@champaignparks.org
LEARNING CURVE SERIES | FREE!
Ages 50+
This series consists of learning new skills that affect our demographic. Come and leave smarter than when you arrived.
- March 31
- April 17
Day: Tuesday
Time: 2-3p
Location: Douglass Annex
Fee (M/NM): FREE
Questions: call Robert at 217-819-3961 or email at robert.white@champaignparks.org
MOVIE MONDAYS
Ages 50+
We cover it all, from your favorite classics to new premier movies at our Movie Mondays. Come view a different movie every Monday and we will provide the popcorn and beverages.
- April 10
- May 15
- June 19
- July 17
- August 21
Day: Monday
Time: 12p
Fee (M/NM): Free/$4 per session
Location: Douglass Annex
Questions: call Robert at 217-819-3961 or email at robert.white@champaignparks.org
CREATE BETTER HEALTH: SENIOR COOKING AND NUTRITION CLASS | NEW!
Ages 50+
Better Health provides nutrition information, tasty, low-cost, nutritious recipes, and tips on staying physically fit. This class is specifically designed for seniors. Each class will cover new and different information – try one or more!
- April 10 | Deadline: April 5
- May 8 | Deadline: May 3
Day: Monday
Time: 11a-12:20p
Fee (R/NR): FREE!, but registration required for each date
Location: Martens Center
Questions: katherine.hicks@champaignparks.org or 217-819-3843
MEN’S CLUB | NEW!
Ages 50+
Men’s Club is a great way to come together to have fun, learn new things, and share experiences. Men’s Club will meet the first Wednesday of each month.
Date: May 3, June 7, July 5, August 2
Day: Wednesday
Time: 10:30-11:30a
Fee (M/NM): Free/$4
Location: Hays Recreation Center
Questions: call Jean at 217-239-1152 or email at veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org
RULES OF THE ROAD
Ages 50+
Refresh yourself on driving safety at this free drop-in class. There is NO driving test given at this class and it will NOT affect your insurance rate.
Date: Friday, August 11
Time: 10-12p
Fee (M/NM): FREE
Location: Hays Recreation Center
Questions: call Jean at 217-239-1152 or email at veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org
Food & Fun
HAYS POTLUCKS
Ages 50+
Join us every Thursday for a potluck lunch. The first Thursday of every month we celebrate birthdays for that month. Throughout the season, we celebrate holidays and have other fun events.
Year round* | Thursdays | 12p | Hays Recreation Center
Fee: Bring a dish to share or $5
Questions: call Jean at 217-239-1152 or email at veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org
MUNCHIES MONTHLY PICNIC
Ages 50+
The latest topics on current events, jokes, poems, and more will generate the conversation at this lunch gathering. Bring a sack lunch and we’ll provide additional munchies to enjoy.
- April 10
Day: Monday
Time: 12-1p
Location: Hays Recreation Center
Questions: call Jean at 217-239-1152 or email at veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org
Sign up in the Senior Binder at the Hays Center
LUNCH BUNCH
Ages 50+
Enjoy a delectable, leisurely lunch with friends. Pass around pictures of grandkids or share a funny story. There’s nothing like bonding over a meal! Meet us at the restaurant.
Date | Location | Deadline
- April 12 | Culver’s | Deadline: April 11
- May 10 | Monical’s Pizza | Deadline: May 8
- June 14 | Billy Barooz | Deadline: June 12
- July 12 | Jupiters at the Crossing | Deadline: July 10
- August 9 | PIA’s Restaurant | Deadline: August 7
Day: Wednesday
Time: 11a
Fee: Cost of your meal
Questions: call Jean at 217-239-1152 or email at veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org
Sign up in the Senior Binder at Hays Recreation Center or call 217-239-1152
SUPPER CLUB NIGHTS
Ages 50+
Join a group of seniors for delicious food and lively conversation at a couple of our local restaurants. Treat yourself – you deserve it!
- April 19
- May 10
- June 14
- July 12
- August 19
Time: 4-6p
Fee (M/NM): Cost of your meal
Location: Confirmed at Douglass Senior Meeting each month
Deadline: Monday prior to each trip at Douglass
Questions: call Robert at 217-819-3961 or email robert.white@champaignparks.org
Sign up at Douglass Annex by the Monday before
BROWN BAG LUNCH DISCUSSION
Ages 50+
Bring in your lunch and join us for a roundtable discussion – we will provide the dessert! We will have special guest speakers or discuss current events. Come and discuss new ideas and express your own!
HAYS RECREATION CENTER
Date: 5/8, 6/12, 7/10, 8/14
Day: Monday
Time: 12-1p
Questions: call Jean at 217-239-1152 or email at veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org
Sign up in the Senior Binder at Hays Recreation Center or call 217-239-1152
DOUGLASS ANNEX
Date: 3/16, 4/13, 5/18, 6/15, 7/20, 8/17
Day: Thursday
Time: 1-2p
Questions: call Robert at 217-819-3961 or email at robert.white@champaignparks.org
Sign up at Douglass Annex
Fee (M/NM): Bring your own brown bag lunch
Deadline: 1 week prior to program date
PANCAKES AND PROGRAMS | FREE!
Ages 50+
Join us for breakfast and an overview of the newest Program Guide. This is a fantastic time to ask questions about programs and register.
Date: Monday, March 27
Time: 12-2p
Location: Douglass Annex
Fee (M/NM): Free
Questions: email robert.white@champaignparks.org or call 217-398-2572
SENIOR CELEBRATION
Ages 50+
Live music, finger food, decorations, dancing and fun! What more could you ask for at this celebration for our senior members?
Date: Thursday, April 20
Time: 12-1p
Location: Hays Recreation Center
Deadline: April 13
Fee: Bring a side dish or $4
Questions: email veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org or call 217-239-1152
ICE CREAM SOCIALS
Ages 50+
It’s the peak of summer, so what better time to indulge in a cold, creamy treat? We will supply delicious ice cream for you to enjoy. This is the best way to stay cool this summer at Douglass Annex!
Date: June 23, July 28, August 18
Time: 1-3p
Location: Douglass Annex
Deadline: 1 week prior to program date
Fee (M/NM): Free/$4
INDEPENDENCE PICNIC
Ages 50+
Let’s have a picnic and celebrate America’s independence. We will have hot dogs, music, games, and sweet treats! Be sure to wear your red, white, and blue!
Date: Monday. July 3
Time: 12-2p
Location: Hays Recreation Center
Fee (M/NM): Free/$4
MEMBER APPRECIATION DAY PICNIC
Ages 50+
Come have an awesome time being appreciated! Bring your appetite and luck — there will be BBQ, games, and activities.
Date: Friday, August 25
Time: 12-3p
Location: Hessel Park Pavilion
Fee: Free with membership
Activities
COFFEE & CRAFTS
Ages 50+
Join us for some DIY crafts and coffee. Enjoy making things such as motivational cards for individuals in nursing homes, bookmarks for children, and homeless mats for those less fortunate. We will provide ideas, supplies, and coffee – you just bring your creativity!
HAYS RECREATION CENTER
Date: 5/9, 5/23, 6/13, 6/27, 7/11, 7/25, 8/8, 8/22*
Day: Tuesday
Time: 10a-12p
Questions: call Jean at 217-239-1152 or email at veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org
Sign up in the Senior Binder at Hays Recreation Center or call 217-239-1152
DOUGLASS ANNEX
Date: 3/17 (Friday, 10-11:30a), 4/21 (Friday, 10-11:30a), 5/4, 5/18, 6/8, 6/22, 7/6, 7/20, 8/3
Day: Wednesday
Time: 1-2:30p
Questions: call Robert at 217-819-3961 or email at robert.white@champaignparks.org
Sign up at Douglass Annex
No Program*: July 4
Fee (/NM): Free/$4 per session
QUILTING
Ages 50+
Is quilting your hobby? Stop by and join our quilting club. This club has a great group of participants that creates different quilting designs together.
Date: Year Round
Day: Tu/W
Time: 10a – 12:30p
Location: Douglass Annex
Fee (M/NM): Free/$4 per session
Questions: call Robert at 217-819-3961 or email at robert.white@champaignparks.org
Road Trips
DAYCATION
Ages 50+
The weather is changing and it’s time to start our trips back up. Van space is limited, so hurry and register! All trips start from Douglass Annex.
- March 29 | Lincoln Library and Museum. Cost of lunch NOT included
- Deadline: March 22
- Time: 9a-4p
- Fee: $20
- April 26 | Peoria River Front Museum. Cost of lunch NOT included
- Deadline: April 19
- Time: 9a-4p
- Fee: $20
- May 26 | St. Louis. Cost of lunch NOT included
- Deadline: May 19
- Time: 9a-4p
- Fee: $40
Day: Wednesday
Questions: Call Robert at 217-819-3691 or email at robert.white@champaignparks.org
Sign up at Douglass Annex
SENIOR ROAD TRIPS
Ages 50+
It’s time for summer fun on the run! Van space is limited, so hurry and register for these members-only trips!
- June 21 | Casey, Illinois
- Let’s explore Casey, the home to several Guinness World Record constructions — super-sized items in the form of outdoor sculptures — including the Wind Chime, Rocking Chair, Knitting Needles, and more! Bring money for meals and shopping. This trip departs from Hays Center.
- Deadline: June 14
- Time: 9a-4p
- Fee (Members Only): $20
- Let’s explore Casey, the home to several Guinness World Record constructions — super-sized items in the form of outdoor sculptures — including the Wind Chime, Rocking Chair, Knitting Needles, and more! Bring money for meals and shopping. This trip departs from Hays Center.
- June 28 | Bloomington, Illinois
- Tentatively planned
- Deadline: June 21
- Time: 9a-3p
- Fee (Members Only): $30
- Tentatively planned
- July 26 | Peoria, Illinois
- Tentatively planned
- Deadline: July 19
- Time: 9a-3p
- Fee (Members Only): $30
- Tentatively planned
- August 14 | Illinois State Fair
- Music, games, and fair food! Join us for a trip to the Illinois State Fair in Springfield, with free entry for our seniors! Bring your I.D., plus money for any fair food and or rides. This trip departs from Douglass Annex.
- Deadline: August 7
- Time: 9a-4p
- Fee (Members Only): $10
- Music, games, and fair food! Join us for a trip to the Illinois State Fair in Springfield, with free entry for our seniors! Bring your I.D., plus money for any fair food and or rides. This trip departs from Douglass Annex.
- August 16 | Springfield, Illinois
- Take a trip to Springfield, where we will tour all things Lincoln. Visit his home and explore Lincoln’s neighborhood along with a stop at the Lincoln Library. Bring money for meals and shopping. This trip departs from Hays Center.
- Deadline: August 7
- Time: 9a-4p
- Fee (Members Only): $10
- Take a trip to Springfield, where we will tour all things Lincoln. Visit his home and explore Lincoln’s neighborhood along with a stop at the Lincoln Library. Bring money for meals and shopping. This trip departs from Hays Center.
Games
BINGO
Ages 50+
TGIF! End your week with fun people and a game of bingo. Prepare to have a great time! Champaign Park District will provide the prizes.
Deadline: Must register weekly by 7 days prior to the program date
HAYS RECREATION CENTER
Date: 3/17, 4/7, 4/21, 5/5, 5/19, 6/2, 6/16, 7/7, 7/21, 8/4, 8/18
Day: Friday
Time: 10-11a
Min/Max: 6/30
Fee (M/NM): Free/ $4 per session
Questions: call Jean at 217-239-1152 or email at veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org
Sign up in the Senior Binder at Hays Recreation Center or call 217-239-1152
DOUGLASS ANNEX
Date: 3/25, 5/26, 6/30, 7/28, 8/25
Day: Friday
Time: 12-2p
Min/Max: 6/10
Questions: call Robert at 217-819-3961 or email at robert.white@champaignparks.org
Fee (M/NM): Free/$3 per session
Sign up at Douglass Annex
CHOOSE YOUR GAME!
Ages 50+
Spend time with friends playing games like Bridge, Bunco, Euchre, Spades, and Skip-Bo!
Program | Day | Time | Location
Bridge | M* | 1-4p | Hays Center
Bunco | Th | 10a-12p | Hays Center
Spades | Th | 10a-12:30p | Douglass Annex
Euchre | Th | 1-4p | Hays Center
Pick your game | F | 1-4p | Hays Center
Date: Year Round
No Program*: May 29, June 19, July 4
Fee (M/NM): Free/$4 per session
CARDS & GAMES
Ages 50+
Spend the afternoon with friends playing games like Euchre, Skip-Bo, and Trivial Pursuit!
Date: Year round
- Tuesday | 1-4p
- Thursday | 1-4p
- Friday | 2-4p
Location: Hays Recreation Center
Fee (M/NM): Free/$4 per session
Questions: call Jean at 217-239-1152 or email at veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org
BUNCO!
Ages 50+
Yes, this dice game from the past is back! Whether you remember your grandmother’s Bunco Club from your childhood or you’ve never heard of the game but want to try something different, sign up for our Bunco party. We’ll have fun prizes!
Year round* | Thu | 10a – 12p | Free for members/$4 per session
Location: Hays Recreation Center
Questions: call Jean at 217-239-1152 or email at veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org
HAYS BRIDGE GROUP
Ages 50+
Bid, Call, Dealer – Come one, come all to our Bridge Group. Bridge will be meeting three times a week at the Hays Recreation Center. Brush up on your skills, meet new people, and socialize while playing.
Year round | Mondays | 1-4p | Hays Recreation Center
Fee (M/NM): Free/$4 per session
Questions: call Jean at 217-239-1152 or email at veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org
BILLIARDS AND CARDS
Ages 50+
Show off your skills at the Douglass Annex as you play billiards or spades and listen to music with friends.
Date: Year round*
Day: Th
Time: 10a-12p
Location: Douglass Annex
Fee (M/NM): Free/$3 per session
Questions: call Robert at 217-819-3961 or email at robert.white@champaignparks.org