Philomath senior meetup draws increased attendance; committee considers expanding meetings

The Philomath Inclusivity Committee reported increased attendance at its senior meetup and discussed expanding the program beyond monthly speaker sessions to add social meetings and activities.

Diane Crocker, who helps run the senior meetings, said, “We had about 8 more people attending this last month, and I’ve gotten phone calls from 3 people that said… they want to come in the future.” Crocker said one recent caller described feeling lonely and that the group offers a place for neighbors to connect. The committee confirmed the next seniors meeting tied to community outreach is scheduled for Sept. 12 at 10 a.m. at the Philomath Public Library.

Committee members discussed programming plans: a tentative October meeting would include a Medicare informational session described as “Medicare explanation” offered by outside presenters at no charge. Crocker said most regular attendees are on Medicare and would benefit from that topic.

Members said seniors expressed interest in more frequent gatherings that mix informational speakers with social time—playing board games or informal conversation. Committee members said expanding meeting frequency will require at least one additional volunteer organizer. Crocker said offers to help have come in but not yet produced steady support.

No formal motion to expand frequency was recorded; members agreed to seek volunteers and to consider program changes if another organizer joins. The committee asked to include senior meeting information on upcoming outreach materials for the Farmer’s Market.

Ending note: The committee will revisit expansion if volunteer capacity increases and will report on speaker confirmations and volunteer recruitment at a future meeting.