The J will reopen the Heritage Center on May 3 following a more than year-long closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In-person fitness, art and educational classes will resume with limited numbers, a pre-registration requirement, plus face mask and social distancing procedures.
Virtual programming options will remain available.
“It’s hard to believe that it’s been just over a year since programs were shut down. While we have all adapted to a virtual world, we are so excited to resume some normalcy,” said Sandra Greason, director of the Heritage Center. “It’s been way too long since we’ve seen our Heritage Center friends in person and we’re anxious to reconnect.”
With all in-person Heritage Center programs, pre-registration can be done by calling the Heritage Center reception desk at (913) 327-8044. Registration will be accepted for the current week and the following week’s programs and classes except for art classes. The programs to resume include:
Fitness 4 Health classes/chair yoga (Senior HIIT class will continue virtually)
Art classes (art class registration is accepted any time for the following 12-week session)
Educational classes including Aging Well, Hot Topics and Book Club
Special events, such as happy hours and luncheons, with limited capacity and outdoors
Private card and Mahjong groups
In-person dining will not resume yet. However, kosher meals-to-go are available with advanced, prepaid reservations. Menus will be posted online at TheJKC.org/heritagecenter and the Heritage Center reception desk. Additionally, bottled water and coffee service are available for in-person programs at the Heritage Center kitchen window.
Face masks will be required for all members, participants and staff, and social distancing will be implemented. Additional measures include hand sanitizing stations, installation of high-level air filters in the center and sneeze guards at the reception desk, daily temperature checks, and periodic electrostatic cleaning of surfaces. Members are expected to assist with the sanitization of any personal spaces and equipment used during class. Sanitizing supplies will be provided.
The Heritage Center serves seniors 65 years of age and older and is nationally accredited through the National Council on Aging. Heritage Center membership is $70 a year. Membership is required to participate in art classes. Non-member fees apply for meals-to-go and educational programs.
The Heritage Center hours of operation beginning May 3 will be 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, visit www.TheJKC.org/heritagecenter or contact the Heritage Center reception desk at (913) 327-8044.
