Harmon Center reports sold-out trips, strong participation and services for seniors

Staff from the Harmon Center told the Parks and Recreation Commission on Jan. 8 that travel and program registration remain strong and that the center plays a key role in addressing social isolation among seniors.

Lori Schatz, who manages the Harmon Center’s trips and tours, said the center collected $41,828 in three days during travel sign-ups and that multiple international and domestic tours sold out, typically with 30–40 travelers per tour. “We really like it,” Schatz said of the travel program and described referrals from counselors who see travel and social activities as important to seniors’ health.

Leslie Richards, recreation program supervisor at the Harmon Center, described the center’s quarterly newsletter (a $15 annual subscription) and a busy winter–spring calendar that includes a ping-pong tournament on Feb. 21, the Yakima Community Band on Mar. 28, and a remembrance celebration on Mar. 12 at 1:30 p.m. The Harmon Center runs a quarterly community drive; the winter–spring drive collects new, unused toiletries for the YWCA through March 31.

Richards and Schatz said the center hosts a range of classes and activities — book club, tap dancing, wood carving, a monthly senior photo booth, coloring groups and an art show — and that many regular offerings are low-cost or free. Staff said typical drop-in class fees (wood carving, jewelry, tap dance) are $1.50; fitness classes vary by instructor cost, and a 13-punch card for Pilates or Forever Fitness is about $15. The center also sponsors four blood drives per year; staff reported 21 units collected at the December 2024 drive.

Staff said the Harmon Center is ADA accessible. Many seniors use Dial-A-Ride, People For People or the city bus for transportation to events.

The commission praised the Harmon Center staff’s work. Commissioners and staff also noted the center’s role in reducing senior isolation and providing social and recreational opportunities.