Resources for retirees

Retirees are one of the leading categories of newcomers to the Charlotte area, and most are eager to make new friends and get involved.

I wrote a recent column suggesting several ways they could get started meeting new people. Several readers have gotten in touch to mention some resources I left out:

--Charlotte-Mecklenburg Senior Centers offer social, recreational and educational programs for people 55 and over.The main center is at 2225 Tyvola Road. (704) 522-6222.

--Don Kent of Indian Trail wrote to highlight the new Levine Senior Center in Matthews, 1050 Devore Lane, which opened in March and already has about 800 members. "Most of these folks are new to the Charlotte area and are looking for activities and new friends," wrote Kent, who volunteers as a greeter there.

--I neglected to mention there’s more than just one Shepherd’s Center in Charlotte. The interfaith senior centers offer volunteer opportunities, classes and other services. The one at 3115 Providence Road can be reached at 704-365-1995.

Shepherd’s Center South at 4420 Rea Road is 704-541-0100.
Shepherd’s Center East (no Web site listed) at 2101 Belvedere Ave. is 704-338-1511.

--The Sandra and Leon Levine Jewish Community Center at 5007 Providence Road, 704-366-5007, is open to all faiths and offers recreation, classes and activities for all age groups.

On another note:
For those who missed it, here’s a link to Saturday’s column with discussions of the uptown vs. downtown debate and the expression “bless your heart.”

And here’s Sunday’s column about the South African community in Charlotte and some information about the newly-opened U.S. National Whitewater Center.