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

  1. 1 A woman passing papers to a senior couple
  2. 2 A group of seniors sitting at various places in a library, discussing something and holding papers
  3. 3 Four seniors playing ping pong, with another group doing the same in the background
  4. 4 Many people in a room at various tables, playing bingo