June 2026 Happenings at The Center
We are halfway through 2026 already! Have you tried new things or met new people? If not, we’d love to help 🙂
The Center offers its members 50+ activities and reasons to connect every week. Even if you are an introvert, stop by to shoot a game of pool, learn how to play mahjong, or listen to live music on Thursdays. Our full calendar of monthly events and classes can be found HERE.
Here’s just a sample of the fun and informative events, classes, and gatherings in June.
June 8th, Second Monday Dinner

How: Tickets must be purchased before the event at The Center’s Front Desk
When: June 8th at 5:00 pm
Menu: Marinated and Grilled Pork Chop, Roasted Baby Red Potatoes, Green Beans, Dinner Roll/Bread, and Dessert.
Entertainment: Mark Cross from The Raptor Center
Enjoy a home-cooked meal in a fine-dining style! Tickets are $10 per person, and the deadline for ticket purchase is June 5 at noon.
Quilt Bingo

Join us for Quilt Bingo on June 14th at 1:00 p.m.!
- Cost: $12.00 PER CARD FOR 16 GAMES
- Each game will be played for the prize of a quilt. In the event of a tie, each winner will receive a quilt.
- Two coverall games will be played for a premium quilt. In the event of a tie during the coverall, each winner will receive a quilt.
- Bingo prizes cannot be turned in for cash.
- A Meat Raffle will be held between games. A light meal will be served after bingo ends.
- See you at 803 Kingwood Street, Brainerd!
Pints for a Purpose
Join us for Pints for a Purpose Sponsorship Invitation Wednesday, June 17, 2026 • Jack Pine Brewery
We invite everyone to stop by Jack Pine Brewery on June 17th to support The Center during our Pints for a Purpose event. This fun community gathering brings people together for live music, food, friendship, and fundraising — all to support the more than 1,400 older adults who rely on The Center each year.
Throughout the evening, Jack Pine Brewery will donate $1 from every pint sold to benefit The Center and the programs that help older adults stay active, connected, and engaged. We will have live music and a 50/50 to add to the festivities. Come have fun for a good cause!
Silent Book Club!
Something new at The Center! Join us for Silent Book Club on the 4th Tuesday of each month. From 1:00-3:00, members and the public are invited to two hours of quiet time in the lobby area for reading and relaxation. During Silent Book Club, chatting is optional-no program, no speaker, no pressure. Just quiet time with a book in a cozy atmosphere with friendly faces. The next Silent Book Club gathering will be on June 23rd.

Understanding Your Grief: An 8-Week Guided Series with Vivie.org
This free offering provides a small group experience designed to foster meaningful connection and shared support.
Pre-registration is required to help create a safe and supportive environment.
Tuesdays from May 5 – June 23
10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
The Center (803 Kingwood St, Brainerd)
Whether your loss is recent or years past, you are welcome here.
Call Trisha Zimmerman, LSW, at (320) 759-4935 to register or with any questions.
Lunch and Learn

Friday, June 26th, at 12:00, Angelique Hayes will be presenting on the hot topic of Ai (Artificial Intelligence).
“Ai is here to make your job easier, not replace you. Why? Because AI cannot:
Build genuine trust
Read emotional nuance in a donor meeting
Replace passion, enthusiasm, or empathy
Used properly, AI can be a friend instead of a foe, and Angelique will be sharing some Simple Ways Beginners Can Use this new tool.
Use ChatGPT, Siri, or Google Assistant to:
- Hear the daily weather forecast
- Listen to current news headlines
- Set reminders for appointments, recurring events, birthdays, and medications
- Plan parties and events
- Get guidance on resolving conflicts with neighbors, family, or friends
- Create exercise or wellness plans
- Find meal ideas, recipes, and build grocery lists
- Share jokes and have fun with grandchildren
- Tickets for this event are $5.00 and include a light lunch. Sign-up is located at our front desk.
Not sure how to become a member of The Center? Go here to learn more and sign up online, or stop by 803 Kingwood Street, Brainerd and one of our volunteers will be happy to help you. New adventures in Active Aging await!