600 East Willow Street, Normal, Illinois 61761, United States
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  • More
    • Home
    • About Us
    • Activities
      • Program Highlights
      • Exercise Classes
      • Peace Meal Program
      • Travel Opportunities
      • Special Events
    • Senior Advisory Board
    • News
    • Give Back
      • ARC Living Memorial Fund
      • Bonnie's Cafe Sponsorship
      • Volunteer
    • Member Portal
  • Home
  • About Us
  • Activities
    • Program Highlights
    • Exercise Classes
    • Peace Meal Program
    • Travel Opportunities
    • Special Events
  • Senior Advisory Board
  • News
  • Give Back
    • ARC Living Memorial Fund
    • Bonnie's Cafe Sponsorship
    • Volunteer
  • Member Portal
ARC Activity & Recreation Center

Mon. - Fri.: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sat.: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Mon. - Fri.: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sat.: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PMMon. - Fri.: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sat.: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PMMon. - Fri.: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sat.: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PMMon. - Fri.: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sat.: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Group yoga session in dimly lit room with participants raising arms.
Six women sitting around a table in a cozy café with drinks and a floral centerpiece.
An elderly couple dances gracefully in a gymnasium with vintage attire.
Group of women proudly holding handmade fall-themed wreaths indoors.
An elderly man playing pool in a cozy room with beige walls and framed pictures.

Activities for the 55+ Community

There's a Program at ARC for Everyone: Find the Perfect Ones for You!

ARC is one of the largest senior services centers in the state of Illinois, offering daily exercise programs and over 50 free activities per month, including art classes, lectures, music enrichment, cards and games, Peace Meal and so much more. ARC is dedicated to providing programs that promote healthy aging. Read on to learn more about a few highlighted programs or check out our monthly newsletter below for full activity and exercise calendars and descriptions of programs and classes on schedule this month!


We want to hear from you!  

The ARC team is always looking for ways to improve programs, classes & services to better meet the needs of our 55+ community. By completing our 2026 Programming survey, you’ll help the ARC team understand what you enjoy most, what could be improved, and what new opportunities you’d like to see. Use the link below to share your thoughts and help shape future ARC program offerings.

https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/4ccBOUx/ShareYourIdeas

View & Download ARC's Monthly Newsletters

If the Our Publication widget above is not allowing you to download the monthly newlsetter, click the blue button below to navigate through the same steps.  You can also view the newsletter as a full-screen PDF.

Download the Monthly Newlsetter

Upcoming Program Highlights

September Pickleball Schedule

Members hit pickleballs back & forth over net in drill during clinic

M | 7 AM - 11 AM, 4 - 7 PM

T (Beg.) | 7 AM - 9 AM

T (Exp.) | 2 - 7 PM

W (Exp.) | 7 AM - 12 PM, 4 - 7 PM

W (Beg.) | 12 PM - 4 PM

TH | 7 AM - 9 AM, 1 – 7 PM

F | 7 AM - 7 PM

S | 8 AM - 1 PM


Pickleball Courts Will Be Closed

 

TH, September 3, 7AM - 5PM

M, September 7, ALL DAY (Labor Day) 

F, September 11, 4PM- 7PM 

S, September 12, ALL DAY 

S, September 19, ALL DAY 

F, September 25, 7AM- 12PM


*During the above times listed as Beginner times, south court will be reserved for beginners and those serving as their mentors. North court open to all*

Click Here to Learn More About Pickleball Rules

 


Computer Assistance

Tuesday Computer Assistance with George:

T, 10 AM - 1 PM 

Computer assistance will be led by ARC's own tech expert, George Wilson. George can assist with Windows laptops, Apple iPads, Google Chromebooks, Amazon Firesticks and more. Some areas of assistance include set up and configuration, use of Office products, email, password creation tips, photo saving and sharing, backing up data, etc. Registration for a 1-hour time slot is required. Bring your device with you to your appointment. Location: Computer Lab

*One appointment per member per month, unless otherwise arranged with George.*


Friday Computer Assistance with Julie Marriott: F, 10 AM - 12 PM

Come and get help with your technology issues. All devices welcome. Julie will do her best to solve the problem and help you leave with a better understanding of how to use your device. Registration required. Location: Computer Lab

September Music Programs

September Music Programs

Music Appreciation: Monday, September 14th, 11 AM 

  Join us in September for some harvest theme songs to honor our country’s agricultural legacy. Whether you lived on a farm as an adult or child, grow your own veggies, or have only visited the grocery store, these songs will be a familiar connection to the natural rhythms of the summer and fall harvest season.

Location: Community Room 


Percussion Group: Tuesday, September 8th, 4PM 

 Come drum with Bob and Reenie Bradley. Bring your drum or percussion instrument if you'd like, or use what we have available! Drum circles are a peaceful journey. If you'd like to join or just want to enjoy the rhythm -- you're welcome to do so. Registration required. Location: Classroom or outside if weather permits. 



Peaceful and Comforting Music with Marsha Meiss: Monday, September 14th, 10 AM

 Relax with graceful piano music with Marsha Meiss. Location: Auditorium 


American Music with Michael Dicker: Monday, September 21st, 1 PM 

 The 18th century combined music of Native Americans and Colonists bringing European musical traditions to the New World. In the 19th century, the musical melting pot becomes much larger with the addition of African and Carribean influence. From this point in time American music becomes richer, fuller, and more colorful. During this session we will sample the “new” American music. We will observe the worldwide influence of his new music as we pepare to move on into the 20th century. Registration is required. Location: Auditorium 

August Art Programs

September Music Programs

Altered Book to Junk Journal : Friday, September 25th, 9:30 AM 

 Instructor: Charlotte Black 

This is an Ongoing Project - Cost: $5 for those who have taken before and $12 for those new to class. Registration required. Those who did not register to attend class but would like to see what is being worked on are welcome to pop in to take a peek!

 Location: Classroom


Origami Class: Wednesday, September 9th  & 23rd, 1 PM 

 Instructor: Peggy Tippett 

This month we are going to create a little magic! I will teach you how to fold a 6x12 inch sheet of paper into a cube tower. One twist reveals 3 cubes, twist it in the opposite direction and it reveals 3 different cubes! I like to draw numbers to make it look like 3 dice one on top of the other, one twist reveals random numbers, second twist reveals 3 of a kind on every side! Amuse and amaze your friends! See you soon! Sign up and let the fun begin! Cost: $7

Location: Community Room 



ARC Gives Back: Color with a Smile Tuesday, September 29th, 5-6 PM 

 Instructor: Kristen Chimack

 Spend a creative evening at ARC while helping brighten someone’s day. Members will color cheerful pictures that will be sent to the Color A Smile organization for distribution to nursing homes, hospitals, Meals on Wheels programs, our troops overseas, and others in need of a smile. All supplies will be provided, so just show up and be ready to color for a great cause. Registration required.

Location: Classroom



Support Groups at ARC

Caregiver Support: CCSI & The Alzheimer's Association - W, September 2nd  , 2 -3 PM 

Are you a current or past family caregiver? Are you feeling stressed, tired, alone, overwhelmed, and/or burnt out? Caregiver support group meetings may be able to help! Caregiver support groups offer not only peer support, but resources in our communities, referrals to additional support, possible funding opportunities, and problem solving. If you feel you need a listening ear to validate what you’re going through as a caregiver, this support group may be for you! Caregiving is not easy and we’re here to help!  

Location: Community Room 


Caregiver Support: Sugar Creek Alzheimer's Special Care Center: T, September 2nd  , 9:30 AM

 Sugar Creek in Normal, IL offers a free support group for caregivers that assist in the care of Alzheimer's & Dementia individuals on the first Tuesday of every month at 9:30 AM at the ARC in Normal. Talking points covered include conflict/resolution, self-care for the caregiver, recreation activities, the different stages of disease. 

Location: Community Room 


Men's Grief Support: W, September 23rd, 12 - 1:30 PM

Open to members/non-members of ARC, men who are grieving the death of a spouse or other significant person/other. Led by Kevin Copeland, LCSW, Carle Hospice Bereavement Coordinator. This program will meet in person at ARC for the month of August.

Location: Conference Room 


Veterans Coffee Cafe: F, September 11th, 9 AM     

 Veteran Coffee Cafes with The Care Team help to identify the veterans among us and support them through sharing stories or just letting them know that their service is important still today. They are not forgotten. This month will feature speaker Miguel Ortiz, Military & Veterans Advisor for the office of Congressman Darin LaHood. He will discuss a variety of topics, including assistance that can be provided with any federal agency, including the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Department of Defense. 

  Location: Dining Room


Parkinson's Support Group: T, September 15th , 1 PM  

The Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the third Tuesday of each month. 

 Location: Classroom

Wellness Programs

Do you have all the parts of “Character Language” in alignment for proper communication and care?

T, September 8, 10 AM - 12 PM

Do you have all the parts of “Character Language” in alignment for proper communication and care? Do you approach conversation with intention or tension? Do you react or respond? See you on September 8th, 2026 from 10 AM to 12 PM. Be sure to bring a pen and a drink of water. Registration required for this unique experience. 

Location: Auditorium


Hometown Senior Care Advisors

M, September 14 & 28, 11 AM - 12 PM for appts, 

12 - 1 PM for drop-ins 

There are so many kinds of senior living communities, offering different care and with different pricing structures. It’s confusing! Want someone to explain the differences and make it easier to understand? Do you have questions about senior living, but don’t want to talk to a sales person? Hometown Senior Care Advisors is a FREE service for seniors looking for help to navigate their senior living and senior care. You can schedule an appointment time or come by during drop-in hours on the 2nd or 4th Monday of the month. Location: Conference Room


Vaccine Clinic

TH, September 3, 10 AM

Location: Rec Room

Join us and our partners at Walgreens for a vaccine clinic at the ARC! They will be here administering flu, pneumonia, COVID Vaccine, shingles, Hepatitis A &B, Tetanus, and RSV vaccines. Registration required. Please bring a valid insurance card. Coverage is dependent upon insurance. 


 Durable Power of Attorney

T, September 8 & TH, September 17, 9-11 AM 

Empower yourself—give a gift to your family—define your quality of life choices in writing. You will have the opportunity to make an appointment to complete your Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare document with members of Compassion & Choices of McLean County. Determine who you want as your Advocate, and have a discussion with them if possible in advance. Registration required & closes 1 day in advance. Location: Conference Room 

Information & Assistance Outreach

TH, September 10 & 24 , 9 - 11 AM 

Stop by CCSI Senior Information Services Outreach to get help applying for local, state, and federal programs. During your one-on-one consultation, our trained SIS Specialists and SHIP Counselors can help answer your questions about Medicare, Medicaid, Property Tax Freeze, License Plate Discount applications and more. Income and asset guidelines apply, so bring proof with you. Location: Conference Room


OSF SmartMeals

F, September 18, 2 PM

Learn about the OSF SmartMeals Program and take home a meal kit after this taste-testing class. These shelf-stable, healthier recipes can be a pantry staple for easy cooking. Registration required. Location: Dining Room


Carle Mobile Health Clinic 

W, September 16, 9 AM - 4 PM 

Full-Service Walk-In Healthcare for the Entire Family! Carle’s Mobile Health Clinic provides healthcare on a first-come, first-served basis. Services include, but are not limited to: Primary Care needs, medication review/prescription renewals, chronic illness management, wellness exams, school/sports physicals, and immunizations for all ages, including Flu and COVID. The clinic also has full laboratory services and offers EKGs as needed. Social Service supports are also provided on-board the clinic. Services/tests run will incur costs dependent on insurance. Location: Parking Lot



New Advances in Alzheimer’s 

W, September 9, 1-2PM 

More than 7 million people in the United States are currently living with dementia. Come learn about the new FDA approved treatments, hear the impact of anti amyloid treatments on the brain, learn about the Alzheimer's associations resources, and more! RSVPs are not required for me and walk ins are welcome. 

Location: Auditorium 

Fun Evening Programming Options

Fun Evening Programming Options

Fun Evening Programming Options

New Member Meet & Mingle

 T, September 1st, 4:30 PM

New to ARC? Join us for our New Member Meet & Mingle! This relaxed social gathering is a welcoming way to meet ARC staff, volunteers, and fellow members while enjoying light refreshments. Existing members are welcome, too. Come help us make new members feel at home! Registration required. 

Location: Bonnie’s Cafe


Reiki Sound Bath with Guided Meditation: T, September 4th, 3:30 PM

You will receive Reiki energy along with sound healing and guided meditation. Reiki is a Japanese energy healing technique. The Reiki energy flows through your chakras, releasing energetic blocks and enabling your energy to flow naturally and optimally. Reiki helps balance your body, allowing it to function at its highest level. It promotes self-healing. Come release stress and anxiety. Find relaxation, centeredness, peace and calm. Melissa is a Usui Reiki Master who has practiced Reiki and energy healing for the past five years. She does Reiki individually and in group settings both in person and virtually. She also incorporates Reiki into her workshops and coaching programs. Feel free to bring a pillow and a blanket as well as something soft to lie on, like a sleeping bag. Come with an open mind and the intent to heal. Cost: $10. Registration required. Location: Celebration Room


 Let's Get Cooking- Trivia! 

 T, September 8th, 5 - 7 PM 

 Get ready to test your foodie knowledge at September Trivia Night! From famous chefs and classic dishes to BBQ, food brands, sweet treats and flavors from around the world, this month’s trivia is serving up eight delicious rounds of fun. Gather your team, bring your appetite for competition and see who knows their way around the kitchen! Registration Required. 

Location: Dining Room  


Individual Reiki (Private Session)

 F, September 18th , 3:00-5:30 PM

Reiki is a form of energy healing that started in Japan. The Reiki energy flows through your chakras, releasing blocks and allowing your energy to flow naturally and optimally. Reiki energy helps put your body in a state of balance, allowing it to heal itself and function at its highest level. Come release stress and anxiety, relax, and find peace and calm. Melissa Watson is a Usui Reiki Master who has practiced Reiki and energy healing for the past five years. She offers Reiki individually and in group settings both in person and virtually. Registration required. 30-minute sessions are $40, 1 hour - $75,  Location: Celebration Room 

Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) Services at ARC

What is SHIP?

SHIP counselors are trained, certified, and experienced in offering one-on-one information for all aspects of Medicare, health insurance and drug plans. A program of ARC, SHIP provides assistance, explanations, and plan comparisons. There is never a cost, sales, or any insurance affiliations.  SHIP is especially helpful for those new to Medicare who are trying to navigate the system and meet deadlines or to anyone wanting to lower current costs and understand options. Help is available by individual appointment at various times each month. Call ARC at 309-888-9099, and a counselor will return your call to set an appointment. Help is available by individual appointment various times each month as well. Call ARC at  309-888-9099 and press 3 to leave a message for the SHIP team. A counselor will return your call to set an appointment. SHIP is a program of the Illinois Department on Aging. There are no walk-in hours during open enrollment.


Click HERE to visit the official Medicare site.

Click HERE to learn more about SHIP & the Illinois Department on Aging.

  

  

Avoid Medicare Scams 

Someone you don't know calls, emails, or texts you offering free medical equipment or services. What should you do? Hang up. Delete it. Only you and your doctor should decide what care and services are right for you.

Scammers want your Medicare information so they can bill Medicare for services you don't need — like hospice (end-of-life care), home health care, or durable medical equipment (like a brace or cane).

Hospice scams are particularly harmful. If a scammer signs you up for hospice care without your knowledge, you could lose access to your regular Medicare benefits should you need them.

Remember: Never give out your Medicare Number and don't sign anything for free services — it's a scam. If you think you may have experienced fraud, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or report it online at Medicare.gov/fraud

ARC's Sunshine Program

About ARC's Sunshine Program

  • Provide friendly check-ins via phone or in person
  • Connect you to resources to help prevent loneliness and build social connection
  • Service provided to those 60+
  • ARC membership not required

 Can we help you or a loved one stay connected for whole-health wellness? 

 Contact Sunshine Coordinator Barb Dallinger at 309-888-9099, ext. 4 or by email at bdallinger@normaltownship.org to learn more or get involved 

Interested in becoming an instructor at The ARC?

Fill out the Programming Proposal Form to let us know what you would like to teach! 

Get Started

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  • Member Portal

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Sunshine Program is Seeking Volunteers!

Would you be interested in assisting the Sunshine Program by visiting with Sunshine Program participants or delivering gift baskets?  Let an ARC Management Team member know or email Barb Dallinger @ bdallinger@normaltownship.org!