Many seniors come to GSC for the wide variety of programs offered. Each month, a mix of music / performing arts, informative talks, and lessons in a skill or hobby fill the schedule. Generally, the sessions, which last 30-60 minutes, are quite interactive due to our small size and flexible seating arrangements. Fortunately, the Washington, DC area offers a wealth of individuals knowledgeable about culture, history, current events, foreign countries/affairs, medical advancements, and other topics.

The following local organizations donate programs to the Center at least annually: Washington Performing Arts Society, Friday Morning Music Club, and the Improv Club of Georgetown University.

Once or twice a month, seniors are treated to field trips in the DMV area. These trips provide an opportunity for members to expose themselves to a variety of environments and subject areas—whether it be an excursion to a Smithsonian museum or a ride to see the foliage in the Shenandoah Valley. Most trips entail a lunch out where seniors may choose exactly what they want to eat. When possible, we try to work with local restaurants that have been charitable to the Center. Usually, the outings run from lunchtime to mid or late afternoon with door-to-door transportation provided.

Unlike most other organizations, the Georgetown Senior Center offers door-to-door transportation to its members who live in the Georgetown / Upper Northwest DC neighborhoods. A van, with a lift for those with special needs, picks up seniors at their homes or apartments between 10 AM and 11:15 AM each Monday and Friday. The van is also used to transport seniors on field trips to sites in DC, Maryland or Virginia.

The van is insured, repaired and inspected regularly. The driver has a commercial license. For many members, our door-to-door transportation is a much-welcomed mode of transportation where friendships are developed and strengthened.

Whether it be a holiday, birthday or any other special occasion, GSC always plans a celebration. Local restaurants provide meals for the biggest holidays—1789 Restaurant for Thanksgiving and Martin’s Tavern for Christmas. In addition, Martin’s Tavern sometimes offers wine and/or dessert for less prominent celebrations (Valentine’s Day and Halloween).

If the party occurs at the Center, Blake Hall and its tables are fully decorated. Often, there is musical entertainment (the violinist, Anthony Hyatt is a popular performer) and guests are invited to attend. Sometimes cards and gifts are exchanged, and in the end party favors are distributed.

During the Covid 19 pandemic, GSC obtained and delivered take-out meals for the holidays, which was a very special treat after months of isolation.

Unlike most organizations that serve seniors, we provide home-cooked (usually hot) lunches for our members. A small group of volunteers shop, cook and prepare healthy, well-balanced meals for the seniors. Once a month, a cook delivers the food to our kitchen on the day of our gathering and volunteers to heat and serve the meal. Seniors look forward to the variety of cuisines and enjoy eating together in a nice environment. Any leftovers are sent home with members for additional meals.

If you or one of your friends or family members are interested in cooking or donating a prepared meal for GSC, please contact us.

A prerequisite to partaking in any meal at the Center is a light exercise class offered a half-hour before lunch is served. A certified exercise instructor provides step-by-step guidance with music and props as seniors follow while in their chairs or standing briefly. The exercises are intended to stretch and strengthen muscles, move major joints, increase circulation, and improve mental and physical well-being.