By Alicia Doyle
Sunday Signal Writer
In Santa Clarita, older adults are finding fresh ways to stay connected, active, and engaged, thanks to a growing network of community centers and libraries offering an array of programs beyond what’s available at the Senior Center — proof that retirement here is anything but quiet, and every day brings new opportunities for lifelong learning, social connection, and healthy living.
Santa Clarita Valley Community Center
The Santa Clarita Valley Community Center at 26111 Bouquet Canyon Road is a vibrant gathering place for older adults who want to stay engaged and active in their community.
“We offer a wide range of engaging classes and activities that promote wellness, creativity, and connection,” said Deborah Riggin, interim center director, noting that these include Zumba, crochet, arts and crafts, sewing and quilting clubs.
The sewing and quilting classes, as well as the art club, are some of the most popular and well-loved programs. “These activities offer not just skill-building, but also a vibrant sense of creativity, purpose, and community.”
This fall, the center is expanding its services with a focus on health, education and overall well-being.
“In partnership with the Department of Mental Health, we’re hosting a series of wellness workshops focused on mental, emotional and physical health,” said Riggin, adding that the center is also collaborating with the Center for Health Care Rights to offer educational sessions designed to help Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers better understand the full range of services and supports available through Medicare.
“These new offerings reflect our continued commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our community,” Riggin said.
Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill, access support services, or simply connect with others, there’s something here for everyone, she added.
“We invite the community to stop by, join a class, or participate in a program — you never know what new friendships or opportunities might be waiting.”
For more information, call (661) 254-0070.
SCV Senior Center – Bella Vida
The SCV Senior Center – Bella Vida at 27180 Golden Valley Road stands as a lively hub for older adults in Santa Clarita, offering numerous programs designed to boost health, creativity, and social connection in a state-of-the-art facility. Seniors can join in exercise classes like yoga and chair pilates, or dive into painting, billiards and community-wide events such as concert series and themed dinners — all created for diverse interests and abilities.
The fitness center supports strength and cardiovascular wellness, while daily meals — prepared both for onsite dining and delivered to homes — ensure nutrition and companionship are at the forefront.
The center’s wraparound services include social work support, resource referrals, and groups for counseling, helping seniors address challenges from food insecurity to emotional well-being. Trips, tours, lectures, and special fundraisers — like the annual Celebrity Waiter Dinner — invite senior residents into a vibrant, supportive network backed by city and county partnerships.
The atmosphere at Bella Vida feels more like a country club than a traditional senior center, where cheerful staff and engaged volunteers create an environment for healthy aging and a truly “beautiful life” every day.
For more information, call (661) 259-9444.
Libraries
Santa Clarita’s local libraries are redefining what it means to gather, learn and thrive in community — especially for seniors. As the Santa Clarita Public Library notes, “Our library branches offer free programs for adults, seniors, and adults with disabilities — providing welcoming spaces to connect, learn, and participate in enriching activities tailored for every stage of life.”
Here’s a look at the senior-focused offerings at the city’s three main branches.
Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Library
The Canyon Country branch at 18601 Soledad Canyon Road delivers an inviting assortment of activities for seniors seeking enrichment and fun. The library regularly partners with the adjacent Canyon Country Community Center, which hosts weekly table tennis, mahjong, watercolor classes for older adults and gentle yoga sessions specifically tailored for those 55 and older.
On Fridays, Tech Hour offers free one-on-one technology assistance, making mobile devices and computers less daunting for older learners. Seniors can also join the Senior Makers Club to explore hands-on crafts and new DIY hobbies. Social favorites include monthly BINGO and engaging workshops like spring scented candle making, which encourage both creativity and connection among participants.
For more information, call (661) 259-0750.
Old Town Newhall Library
At Old Town Newhall Library, 24500 Main Street, lifelong learning takes center stage with programs designed to connect, inspire, and engage older adults in the community. Seniors can dive into lively discussion at weekly and monthly book clubs, where good reads often lead to great friendships. For those looking to sharpen language skills in a welcoming setting, the English Conversation Club meets every Wednesday, offering a relaxed space to practice with fellow learners.
The library also spices things up — literally — through a monthly program at the Adult Reference Desk, where visitors can pick up a featured spice along with a regional recipe to try at home. Music lovers won’t want to miss the acoustic jam on October 5 from 1 to 3 p.m., featuring local musicians who have been strumming together since the 1970s. And on October 10 from 10 to 11 a.m., an adaptive cooking class tailored for adults with disabilities and their caregivers provides a warm, supportive environment to cook, create, and share something delicious.
For more information, call (661) 259-0750.
Valencia Library
The Valencia Library at 23743 Valencia Boulevard is offering a full slate of engaging programs this October, giving older adults and community members a chance to connect, create, and explore new interests. From hands-on crafts to seasonal celebrations and even a dip into the paranormal, the branch’s calendar is filled with activities meant to inspire both mind and spirit.
On October 8 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., participants can enjoy a fall-themed Arts & Crafts class, creating a felt car freshener infused with essential oils. This project allows for creative freedom while adding a cozy seasonal touch to everyday drives. The next morning, October 9 from 11 a.m. to noon, the library hosts a pumpkin decorating activity designed for adults with disabilities and their caregivers. Supplies will be provided so each guest can paint, decorate, and personalize their own pumpkin to take home.
For those who prefer a thrill, the Tales from the Dark Stacks book club meets on October 11 from 1 to 2 p.m. in the community room. The spooky-themed club explores everything from folklore and cryptids to hauntings and the supernatural. This month’s selection is The Silent Companions by Laura Purcell. Closing out the lineup is Charmed Coasters on October 22 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Participants will design resin coasters with a spooky twist, adding a touch of ghoulish charm to seasonal décor.
For more information, call (661) 259-0750.