Over the past several weeks, Willard Community Center has been blessed with an incredible outpouring of meal donations for our adult and senior programs. In fact, we have received so many meals that we can hardly keep up, and what a wonderful challenge to have. This generosity has provided nourishment, comfort, and connection to the many adults who gather at Willard each week for fitness classes, art workshops, social groups, and community meals.
These donations have done more than fill plates; they have created opportunities for conversation, fellowship, and belonging. Shared meals often become shared moments, moments where neighbors build relationships, laughter fills the room, and individuals feel supported and seen.
We extend our deepest gratitude to To The Brim Communities for their ongoing generosity and commitment to supporting the well-being of aging adults in our community. Their thoughtful contributions have helped make our programs more welcoming, more inclusive, and more joyful.
At Willard, we believe that community is built one act of kindness at a time. The overwhelming response to meal donations reminds us just how powerful those acts can be. Thank you to everyone who helps make Willard a place where people of all ages feel valued, cared for, and connected.
The Lakeview CLC hosted an exciting Nature Night on November 20, welcoming 239 students, families, and community members for an evening filled with hands-on exploration and outdoor-themed learning. Participants had the opportunity to engage in STEM activities, discover interesting facts about Nebraska’s native wildlife, and learn how nature influences our everyday lives.
The event featured multiple interactive stations, each designed to spark curiosity and deepen students’ understanding of the natural world. From examining plant and animal adaptations to exploring environmental science concepts, families enjoyed a wide range of activities that encouraged learning through play.
Willard extends a heartfelt thank you to the many organizations that generously donated their time and expertise to make this event successful. Their contributions brought unique, engaging experiences to our students and families, and highlighted the power of community partnerships in education.
Nature Night was a wonderful example of how collaboration and creative programming can bring people together. We are grateful to everyone who attended and helped make the evening both educational and memorable.
Willard Community Center recently wrapped up the third heartwarming and enriching session of the Prints & Memories 8-week class, a Creative Aging through the Arts Program (CAAP) made possible through generous support from the Nebraska Arts Council. This class brought together an inspiring group of lifelong learners whose stories, creativity, and enthusiasm made each session truly special.
Led by printmaking artist Liz Shea-McCoy, participants explored a variety of printmaking techniques while sharing memories, building friendships, and discovering new avenues for artistic expression. The room was filled with laughter, curiosity, and the joy that comes from learning something new at any age.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Nebraska Arts Council for awarding Willard this CAAP grant and making this experience possible. Their investment in creative aging programs helps ensure that older adults have meaningful opportunities to grow, connect, and express themselves through the arts.
We look forward to welcoming everyone back for future Creative Aging opportunities at Willard!
Thank you to Mr. Joe Hinderks and Ms. Lisa Helms for joining our Lakeview CLC Afterschool Program on Veterans Day! They spent the afternoon sharing their incredible stories and experiences serving in the U.S. Navy, giving our students an inspiring look into courage, teamwork, and service.
We’re especially proud to say this family has deep Willard roots. Lisa’s daughters both grew up in our programs, with one part of our current Lakeview staff and the other a former team member, and Joe has had numerous other grandchildren come through our programs over the years!
Thank you, Joe and Lisa, for your service to our country and for spending your afternoon with us. You continue to make a difference in our community every day!
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When: Tuesday, December 10 · 11:00 AM
Where: Willard Community Center (1245 S Folsom St, Lincoln, NE)
Details:
Join us for a warm, community potluck with friends old and new! Willard will provide the main dish of Biscuits & Gravy. Bring a favorite side or dessert to share (optional), and we’ll handle plates, utensils, coffee, and water.
Who’s invited: Aging adults & senior citizens, plus friends and caregivers, everyone’s welcome!
Cost: Free
RSVP: Call 402-475-0805 so we can plan enough food.
Questions? Call 402-475-0805.
We can’t wait to share good food and great company! 💛
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Willard Community Center is thrilled to announce that we have been awarded a $40,000 grant from the Nebraska Presbyterian Foundation in support of our Adult Program Expansion initiative.
This generous funding will help Willard continue to grow programs that connect, engage, and empower aging adults in our community through opportunities focused on wellness, lifelong learning, creativity, and social connection.
“We are so grateful to the Nebraska Presbyterian Foundation for believing in our mission and helping us build a stronger, more connected community,” said Sarah Reinke, Executive Director of Willard Community Center. “This support allows us to expand the programs and experiences that help aging adults stay active, curious, and connected.”
The Adult Program Expansion is part of Willard’s broader vision to create a welcoming campus where friendship has no age limit. Current offerings include fitness and wellness classes in partnership with the YMCA, creative arts sessions, genealogy workshops, and monthly social gatherings, with more opportunities launching in the coming year.
Willard extends a heartfelt thank you to the Nebraska Presbyterian Foundation for its partnership and investment in the health and well-being of Lincoln’s aging adult community.
Willard Community Center extends heartfelt thanks to the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska for donating wellness and safety supplies to support our programs and participants. Items such as wet wipes, cleaning wipes, a carbon monoxide detector, and a weather alert radio will help us maintain a clean, safe, and well-prepared environment for everyone who visits the Center.
We’re so grateful for community partners like the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska who share our commitment to health, safety, and wellness for all.
Get into the fall spirit at Willard Community Center!
Join us on Wednesday, October 29, at 11:00 AM for a fun and creative Pumpkin Decorating Party with our Early Explorers classes. We’ll provide the pumpkins and craft supplies, just bring your imagination and Halloween cheer!
This event is free to attend, but please let us know by October 28 if you plan to join so we can have a pumpkin ready for you.
Come enjoy some mid-morning fun, festive snacks, and great company!
October marks the nationwide celebration of Lights On Afterschool, an annual event that highlights the importance of after-school programs in supporting youth, families, and communities. This year marked the 26th anniversary of the celebration, and our Lakeview Community Learning Center students joined in with enthusiasm and pride!
Students shared what the CLC program means to them, from making new friends and building confidence to discovering new skills and finding a safe, fun place to spend their afternoons. Their reflections were a powerful reminder of how meaningful after school opportunities can be.
To top off the celebration, everyone enjoyed some fun activities and earned super cool prizes at the end of the day!
We’re proud to celebrate Lights On Afterschool and to continue offering engaging, supportive programs that help students learn, grow, and shine.
This year’s Trunk-or-Treat was one for the books! With perfect fall weather, families from across the community gathered at the Schroder Park Wellness Campus for a night full of fun, creativity, and candy.
Sixteen trunks, hosted by local organizations and community members, lined the parking lot, each decorated with its own unique theme and plenty of Halloween spirit. From fairy tales to spooky scenes, every trunk brought smiles to the 536 individuals who joined us throughout the evening.
We are so grateful to everyone who volunteered, hosted a trunk, and helped make the event such a success. Your time, energy, and community spirit made for a truly memorable night at Willard!
