THE AOA SOCIAL CIRCLE - MARCH
Dear AOA Members,
As we celebrated our theme, Celebrating Our American Heritage through Perseverance, I was reminded of the extraordinary spirit of our Active Older Adult community at the Wyckoff YMCA.
Nothing is more certain in our world than challenges. They meet us in changing member needs, and the quiet personal battles many of our participants carry with them each day. Yet what defines us — as a community — is not simply that we endure these moments, but that we continue to show up with resilience, creativity, and heart.
I see that perseverance daily — in members returning to the commons stronger than before, in new friendships forming, in laughter filling our spaces, and in the willingness to keep learning and growing.
The AOA Classical Music Appreciation Mini-Session in Session III was a tremendous success. Led by Reegan McKenzie (part of the Performing Arts Team when she is not in the Commons) and Georgianna Pappas, part of the Performing Arts Team, it became a reflective and engaging space where members gathered to listen, discuss, and thoughtfully explore beautiful works of music together. The conversations were rich, the atmosphere welcoming, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. It proved to be a truly special addition — one that brought meaningful enrichment and connection to our AOA community.
At the same time, there was a quiet excitement building for the AOA St. Patrick’s Day Lunch on March 11. Even during the planning stages, it already felt like one of those special gatherings that would bring laughter, music, and a little festive mischief — something joyful to anticipate as winter continues.
We are not only celebrating perseverance this month — we were living it.
Visit Us in The Commons!
The Commons is the go-to spot for AOA Members (Age 62+)—a warm and welcoming space where acquaintances become friends, and friends become family. Come by the lower level of the Y, grab a cup of coffee, tea, or water, pick up a good book, meet a friend, or join one of the many fun and engaging activities we have planned. We’d love to see you!
With Gratitude,
MaryJoan and the AOA Team
Member Spotlight: Chris Z.
Chris spreads sunshine the moment she walks into a room. Always positive and smiling, she brings an uplifting energy that brightens everyone around her. A true friend to so many in our Active Older Adult community, Chris embodies kindness, encouragement, and connection.
Her love for family is at the heart of who she is, and that same warmth carries into her YMCA friendships. You can find Chris most days participating in our AOA General Exercise classes, staying strong and active with her signature enthusiasm.
And if it’s Friday afternoon, there’s no doubt where she’ll be — at Million Dollar Move in the Commons, gathering with friends for a weekly dose of movie magic, laughter, and community.
We are so grateful for the light Chris brings to the Wyckoff YMCA. She reminds us all that positivity is powerful — and that showing up with joy makes all the difference.
Chip & Dip Pottery
This month’s Chip & Dip Pottery Workshop was a wonderful success. Participants created stylish, functional chip and dip sets using handbuilding techniques — no wheel required! Using press molds, they formed beautifully shaped chip trays and crafted coordinating dip bowls to complete their sets.
The creativity truly shined when it came to surface design. From subtle patterns to bold textures, everyone explored decorative techniques that added personality and unity to their pieces. It was inspiring to see how each set reflected the maker’s individual style while still being perfectly suited for entertaining.
Beyond the clay, the Commons was filled with laughter, focus, and that special energy that happens when people try something new and discover what they’re capable of. We can’t wait to see these pieces glazed and ready for their debut at someone’s next gathering!
INTERESTED IN MAKING POTTERY?
Our next Pottery Workshop is on April 8 from 6:30-8pm
In this workshop learn how to combine slab and coil building techniques to create a unique cylindrical form — either a vase or bowl. With guided instruction, explore how to shape and join clay using traditional handbuilding methods, while designing a functional or decorative piece that reflects your personal style.
Registration Required - Register online or at the front desk.
March 2: AOA Classical Music Mini-Session
March 3: Adult Design Workshop: Greeting Cards
March 6: In Concert: The Great American SOULBook
March 10: Adult Design Workshop: Floral Design
March 11: AOA St. Patty's Day Luncheon
March 12: Patriot Club Lecture
March 19: Patriot Club Lecture
March 23: NEW! Balance Within: Reiki for Stress Management
March 31: Adult Design Workshop: Unique Easter Egg
April 8: Adult Pottery Workshop: Bowl or Vase
April 16: Patriot Club Lecture
April 24: In Concert: StevieMac
April 27: Adult Cooking Workshop: Mediterranean Table
April 30: Community of Lifesavers Workshop
The Rose Fernandez Commons:
Open Monday - Friday, 9am-4pm
THE COMMONS is a warm and welcoming place where acquaintances become friends and friends become family.
Included in your AOA Membership: Weekly “Commons” Activities:
Book Club, The Bull & The Bear - Stock Market Club, This Week in History - Information & Discussion, Mahjong, Intro. to Pinochle, Pinochle, Canasta, Bridge, Intro. to Bridge, Scrabble, Mexican Train, Rummikub, Ted Talks & Discussion, Chess, Million Dollar Movie, Brain Fitness.
WINTER/SPRING SCHEDULE: Effective January 7
CONNECTION EXCHANGE
We want to hear from you!
This is a NEW! avenue for you to provide feedback, compliments, concerns, thoughts, etc. to the Upper Management Team so we can provide the very best care.
No thought or suggestion is too great or too small! Upper Management will respond to your suggestions and/or comments within 48 hours.
Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to the Wyckoff Family YMCA!
