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Senior Enrichment
A vibrant community space welcomes individuals aged 50 and up, promoting connections, well-being, and lifelong learning.
The Banta Center (605 Beech St) is open Monday - Friday from 9 am - 3 pm. It is a warm and friendly environment for adults ages 50 and up where you can take part in any of a wide variety of activities, for a nominal fee, paid annually ($65), semi-annually ($40), or $7 per day.
The Banta Center has also been used for various services in the past such as senior flu shots, community voting site and tax prep assistance for seniors.
The Banta Center also rents the multi-purpose room with kitchen and restroom access for family or group functions. More information on how to reserve the space here.
Activities:
Join us for activities that bring friends together, spark creativity, and keep you moving! From social gatherings to wellness programs, Banta Center offers something for everyone to enjoy throughout the week.
Social & Games:
Card games, bingo, Mexican Train, sing-along, bunco, mahjongg, cornhole, ping pong, writing workshop, monthly free movies with popcorn, and festive holiday parties.
Crafts:
Our “Knit Wits” group meets regularly to knit and crochet handmade items that are donated to local organizations supporting children and families in need.
Dance:
Line dancing classes for all experience levels— great exercise and even better fun.
Recreational:
A cozy library, quiet reading nooks with fresh coffee, and an active gardening group.
Health & Exercise:
A fully equipped fitness room with conditioning machines and free weights, plus Pilates, Reformers, Theraband sessions, exercise DVDs, and more to support your wellness goals.
Nutrition Program
Banta is a Northwest Indiana Community Action nutrition site that serves hot, nutritious lunches Monday - Friday at 11:30 am. Lunches are complimentary to anyone 60 and older, though a voluntary contribution of $1.50 is suggested. Reservations for the lunches must be made at least two business days ahead by calling (219) 462-1301. You do not have to be a Banta Senior member to partake in the lunch program.
Special Events & Education Programs
Banta Center offers a variety of special events and programs throughout the year that support learning, wellness, and connection. From educational classes and health resources to cultural experiences and seasonal celebrations, there's always something to look forward to with friends old and new.
| Birthday Celebrations Monthly | Powers Health PVD Screening Spring & Fall |
| IUN Senior University Classes Monthly | Easter Egg Hunt Friday, April 3 |
| Humane Indiana Wildlife Meet & Greet Monthly | End of Summer Picnic Friday, September 11 |
| Powers Health Ask the Nurse Monthly | Porter County Health Department Vaccination Day Fall |
| Panera Day Old Bread Program Every Monday & Friday | State Health Insurance Assistance Program & Medicare Enrollment Help Monthly Oct - Dec |
| Wellness Initiative for Senior Education February 4 - March 11 | Halloween Party Friday, October 30 |
| Memorial Opera House Theater Productions | Christmas Party Friday, December 11 |
| Heart Healthy Cooking Demo Monday, February 23 | Christmas Cookie Exchange Wednesday, December 16 |
| Valentines Day Party February 11 |
Card games played year round! Games are free to Banta Members and $2 per day for non-members to play. Please arrive 15 minutes early to register at the Banta front desk the day of play!
Card Game Schedule
| Days | Times | |
| Golf Cards | Mon | 9:30 am |
| Pinochle | Mon/Fri | 12:00 pm |
| Hand & Foot | Mon/Fri | 12:15 pm |
| Swoop Card | Tue | 10:00 am |
| Euchre | Tue | 12:15 pm |
| Bridge | Tue/Th | 12 - 3 pm |
| Five Crowns | Wed | 10:00 am |
| Bridge (Duplicate*) | Wed | 10:30 am - 3 pm |
| Canasta | Wed | 12:15 pm |
| Bridge (Advanced Beginner) | Th | 9:15 am - 12:00 pm |
| Skip-Bo | Th | 10:00 am |
| Hand & Foot | F | 12:15 pm |
| Trash | F | 12:15 pm |
| Swoop Card | F | 12:15 pm |
*ACBL Sanctioned Duplicate Bridge Club. Arrive by 9:45 am and you are guaranteed a partner, ACBL points are awarded.
Pilates
All Pilates classes taught by certified instructor Pat Twilla, NASM CPT, CES, & Pilates Instructor (219) 628-0881.
Pilates Reformer Training
Gain strength, flexibility, stability & fluidity of motion without impact. Focus on corrective exercises for past injuries, poor balance and posture. Easy on joints.
This program is by appointment only, please contact the instructor listed above.
| Dates | Day | Time | Fee | Register |
| Year Round | M - Sa | By Appt | $35 Duet $55 Private | Banta Desk |
Pilates Mat Class
Work your core the entire time you're gaining muscular strength, balance, and flexibility. Modifications for all exercises when needed. We work in bare feet or grippy socks. Please bring a mat. Attend 1 or 2 days/wk.
| Dates | Day | Time | Fee | Register |
| Year Round | W/F | 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | $50/10 classes (Member) $60/10 classes (Non-Member) | Banta Desk |
Program Details
Join our Senior Chair Yoga class, designed to promote flexibility, balance, and relaxation. This gentle, low-impact exercise is perfect for seniors, allowing you to strengthen your body while seated. Enjoy the benefits of yoga in a supportive and accessible environment!
| Dates | Day | Time | Fee | Register |
| Year Round | Th | 12:45 pm | Free (Member) Daily Fee $7/session (Non-Member) | Banta Desk |
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Wendy Riggle
Banta Center DirectorPhone: 219-462-1301