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MAY 2025
MAY 2025
Calendar of Activities & Special Events
VISIONS at Selis Manor
135 West 23rd Street, NY, NY 10011
646-486-4444
● Please note that OAC members 60 and over are given priority to sign up for some events.
● You must call or stop by the office to sign up for any events. Everyone is responsible for his/her own sign ups. You cannot sign someone else up.
● You can also make an appointment with a volunteer to help review the calendar.
You can sign up for all special events starting Monday, April 28th
Office Closures/ Double Meals
VISIONS Offices will close at 1pm on Friday, May 23rd. VISIONS will also be closed on Monday, May 26th in observance of Memorial Day. We will be offering double meals on Friday, May 23.
Composting Matters: Help Us Follow NYC’s New Rules
In accordance with NYC’s new composting regulations, all food scraps must now be separated from regular trash during mealtimes. This initiative is part of a citywide effort to reduce landfill waste and support a more sustainable future. Please take a moment to dispose of food waste properly. If you’re unsure about what can be composted or need assistance, office and meal staff are available to help. Your cooperation is appreciated and essential to making this program a success and helping us provide special events and meal programs.
Event Signups
Please note that OAC members 60 and over are given priority to sign up for certain events. Please note that events are space limited and often supplies are purchased based on RSVP numbers. If you sign up for an event, but need to cancel for any reason, please call the office as soon as possible. We can open the waiting list or avoid excess purchases when you keep us informed. You must call or stop by the office to sign up for any events. You may not sign up for someone else.
OAC Website
Please visit the VISIONS Older Adult Center Website for updated information, calendars and menus at oac@visionsvcb.org
VISIONS APPAREL
If you haven’t picked up your new VISIONS tee, what are you waiting for? Available in yellow, sage green and heather purple. Only $20 each or $18 each if you buy two or more. Totes and long sleeve tees are still available for only $15 each. Don’t forget a hoodie for only $20 to layer for chilly spring mornings. Travel mugs and beanies are $15 too! Please call ext. 212 to check if your size is available and set up a time to purchase.
Senior Expressions
Monday May 5, 2025: Speaker: Rachel Chen, Nutritionist, Department of the Aging: Topic: plant-based Nutrition Education; will begin at 1:30
Monday May 12, 2025: Peace of Heart Choir: Topic: senior entertainment
Monday May 19, 2025: Speaker: Guillaume Allame, Grow NYC: Topic: composting
Monday May 26, 2025: Memorial Day, VISIONS is closed.
New Class Alert
Beginner Braille
When: Tuesdays July 8th - August 26th
Time: 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Where: Conference Room A
Facilitator: Cathleen McGuire
Must be over 60.
Must register by May 30th as we need to order materials in advance for the class. Maximum 8 participants.
This is a beginner level class for participants who have no prior Braille knowledge.
Healthy Aging and Wellness Program with Educational Alliance
When: Tuesdays: May 6th, May 13th, May 20th, May 27th, June 10th and June 17th
Time: 10:30 - 11:30 AM
Where: Snack Bar
Facilitator: Educational Alliance
Come and join us for this exciting new 6 week course with Educational Alliance.
Learn about healthy aging. Learn how to better manage prescription medications. Identify risk factors and behaviors to avoid. Feel more empowered about your health and life.
Refreshments will be provided weekly. Participants who attend all 6 sessions will receive a giveaway. Must be OAC members over 60. Limited to 8 participants
Spring Mini Walking Club with Apple
When: Mondays: May 5th, 19th and June 2nd
Time: 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Where: Meeting in the auditorium
Facilitator: Apple and VISIONS Staff
Let’s Walk!
What’s there not to like about walking? It’s fun and great for you. It helps your circulation, improves your mood and sleep, supports your joints and strengthens your muscles. We will be walking to Madison Square Park. Please make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle. Participants will also receive a pedometer to track their steps. Limited to 8 OAC members over 60 years of age.
VISIONS and BMCC Tech Series
When: Wednesday May 14th and Wednesday May 28th
Time: 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Where: Auditorium
Facilitator: Jose Ozuna
In collaboration with BMCC, VISIONS is hosting two more tech series with BMCC where students share their new innovative projects with participants. This is an opportunity to be involved in the testing process of apps that can help more Visually Impaired and Blind people in the future!
Alexa Crash Course (4 Week Workshop)
When: Thursday’s May 8th, May 15th, May 22nd and May 29th
Time: 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Where: Computer Lab
Facilitator: Jose Ozuna
If you own an Alexa but are unsure you’ve tapped into its full potential, join this 4 week workshop in order to learn the ins and outs. From games to productivity to Smart Home integration. There will always be something to learn!
Special Holiday Meals
Make sure to stop by for these special meals.
May 5th - 12:00 PM
Cinco De Mayo Lunch
Regular meal: Ropa Vieja
Veggie meal: Veggie Fajitas
May 14th - 9:30 AM
Mother’s Day Breakfast
Yogurt, waffles, scrambled eggs, turkey sausage, and fruit salad
Special Events
Feel The Beat - Dance Class
When: May 2
Time: 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Where: Auditorium
Facilitator: Feel The Beat and Liz C
Our latest dance class, Feel The Beat, returns as a regular dance class. Class will take place on the first Friday of every month. Space is limited and preference goes to those who tried the sample class in March. Limited to 20 people. Must speak with Liz Campanile to sign up.
Ambassador Program
When: Monday, May 5th
Time: 10:30 - 11:30 AM
Where: Snack Bar
Facilitator: Elizabeth Campanile (Liz C.)
Ambassadors only at this meeting.
Josh’s Movie Club
When: Tuesday May 6th
Time: 3:00 - 5:30 PM
Where: Conference Room
Facilitator: Josh Castillo
Come join us for a mother’s day themed classic TBD. Snacks and drinks will be provided.
New York City Bar Chorus
When: Tuesday, May 6th
Time: 7:00 - 8:00 PM
Where: Auditorium
Facilitator: Ann DeShazo
Come out and enjoy an evening under the stars with great music from the New York City Bar Chorus! Music to move your soul and get you tapping your feet! We will serve refreshments between 6:00 and 7:00 PM. Please plan to arrive early to enjoy an evening under the stars with the New York City Bar Chorus!
Senior Council Mother’s Day Event
When: Thursday, May 8th
Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: Auditorium
Facilitator: OAC Senior Council
Join us this May for a special Mother's Day event filled with warmth, appreciation, and good company. Let's honor the love and wisdom they bring to our community.
OAC Cinco De Mayo Mother’s Day Brunch
When: Friday, May 9th
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: Auditorium
Facilitator: Diana Cruz
Join us for a special Mother's Day themed brunch as we also celebrate Cinco de Mayo at our older adult center! Treat the wonderful mothers in your life (and yourself!) to a delightful meal filled with festive flavors and heartwarming company. It's a perfect opportunity to enjoy good food, good cheer, and honor the incredible women who mean so much to us. We look forward to celebrating with you! Please register in advance as space is limited to 60 members.
Art Shack Ceramics
When: Friday May 9th
Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Where: 1127 Bedford Avenue in Brooklyn
Facilitator: ArtShack and Melissa Phipps
Join us for a morning of clay sculpting and good conversation. Let the clay be your guide, you never know what you might make. This is an off-site activity and space is limited to the first 12 participants to register.
Teachers and Writers Final Performance
When: Wednesday, May 14th
Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Where: Auditorium
Facilitator: Dave/ Teachers and Writers
The stage is set. The voices are ready. The creativity is unstoppable. Join us for an unforgettable event where the brilliant minds of VISIONS members come alive through soul-stirring poetry, powerful theatrical performances, and stunning LEGO sculptures that defy imagination. This is more than a showcase, it’s a celebration of resilience, expression, and the boundless spirit of our community.
Come be moved. Come be inspired. Light refreshments will be served.
Memorial Day Craft Workshop
Honoring Our Heroes with Creativity
When: Friday, May 16th
Time: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: LC2
Facilitator: Avian Perez
Join us for a special hands-on craft session to celebrate Memorial Day. Using popsicle sticks, paint, and ribbon, we’ll create rustic American flag plaques to honor those who served. Craft, chat, and commemorate in good company. To sign up, please contact the office. Space is limited to 8 participants aged 60 and older only.
Ice Cream Social
When: Friday, May 16th,
Time: 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Where: Auditorium
Facilitator: Liz Campanile/The Order of St. John’s
Let’s get ready for the summer season with something sweet! Join us for our Ice Cream Social and enjoy a cool treat as the weather heats up. Volunteers will be serving up a variety of ice cream desserts with all your favorite toppings. It’s the perfect way to welcome the sunshine, relax, and connect with others. We hope to see you there!
Limited to 30 members
New York Cares Monthly Theme Party
When: Tuesday, May 20th
Time: 10:30 - 11:30 AM
Where: Auditorium
Facilitator: New York Cares
Come and have some refreshments, snacks and make a craft with NY Cares Volunteers.
The Power of Journalism and Storytelling
When: Wednesday, May 21st
Time: 9:30 - 10:15 AM
Where: Auditorium
Speaker: Samantha Hurley
Join us for a special breakfast and presentation by Samantha Hurley. Samantha Hurley is a recent graduate of the University of Georgia where she earned her bachelor’s in Journalism and Spanish. During undergrad, as a legally blind photojournalist and storyteller, she traveled to Paris, France to cover the Paralympic Games for the Associated Press, published an essay in the New York Times and most recently delivered a TEDx talk about redefining perspectives. Born with Albinism and therefore legal blindness, Hurley believes in the power of journalism to redefine how the world sees disability. This will be a 45 minute talk including Q and A. This will be a fascinating experience and the most inspiring talk ever!
Breakfast Club
We will be cancelling the breakfast club in May. Unfortunately we are seeing a lot of disrespectful behavior such as yelling at volunteers and demanding food from participants who have not signed up. This type of behavior is unacceptable. The volunteers nor staff should not be treated in a disrespectful manner. The volunteers are taking the time out to help VISIONS, many who have been here for years. Therefore VISIONS will be cancelling the breakfast club in May.
Earotica Musical Performance
When: Thursday, May 22, 2025
Time:11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: Auditorium
Facilitator: Ann DeShazo
Come and enjoy Earotica's enchanting melodies and expertly orchestrated originals that have captivated audiences across renowned venues in New York City and beyond. Featuring a lineup of exceptional talent, Earotica promises an unforgettable musical experience at every performance.
Coffee Tasting Experience
When: Wednesday, May 28th
Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: Auditorium
Facilitator: Liz C/Starbucks
Join us for an immersive coffee journey where flavor meets story. Discover the unique profiles of Starbucks' signature roasts, learn the art of coffee tasting and perfect pairings, and dive into the rich backstories behind the beans. Together, we'll share not just coffee, but the memories and moments they inspire. Whether you're a seasoned sipper or just curious, this event is all about connection, community, and the love of great coffee. Must love coffee. Limited to 20 participants
Make a Memory: Shadowbox Craft Event
When: Thursday, May 29th
Time: 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Where: Auditorium
Facilitator: Ann Deshazo/Liz Campanile
Join us for a heartwarming afternoon of creativity as we turn cherished memories into beautiful shadow box displays! Bring your own photos, keepsakes, and mementos — anything that tells your story — and we’ll supply the rest. Whether it’s a tribute to a loved one, a special trip, or a favorite moment, you’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind piece that captures it all. Limited to 15 participants. Shadow Boxes are 8x8. If you have questions, please see Liz C.
New Member Monthly Social
When: Friday, May 30th
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: Auditorium
Facilitator: Diana Cruz
This new member orientation will introduce you to all the wonderful programs, activities, and resources we offer. We'll cover everything from our daily schedule, available classes, volunteer opportunities, and special events. Come learn how to make the most of your time here and connect with new friends!
Monthly Pizza Party Social
When: Friday, May 30th
Time: 2:00 - 3:30 PM
Where: Auditorium
Facilitator: Diana Cruz / New York Cares
Come join us for a fun and delicious Pizza Party Social at the senior center! Enjoy a variety of tasty pizzas, good company, and lively conversation. It's the perfect opportunity to socialize, make new friends, and have a great afternoon. Don't miss out on the cheesy goodness and good times! Limited to 35 members who sign up.
Looking Ahead:
No meals on Tuesday, June 24th due to the elections. The auditorium will be closed that day.
Carnegie Hall - June 3rd
Friends and Family Day - Tuesday June 3rd 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Let’s kick the summer off right with this annual celebration! Join us for a day of food, music, games and prizes. Show your VISIONS pride and wear a VISIONS t-shirts. New colors are available for purchase now. You must call Ann De Shazo to register. Please do not leave messages with anyone else. Please do not sign up for friends, you can only sign up for any guest you intend to bring. This event requires a ticket for admission. Tickets are free and can be picked up with Phillip Keys. You can bring one friend only. Tickets are available for pick up beginning Monday May 12th.
Senior Council Fundraiser: Chicken To Go meal fundraiser Wednesday, June 4th 1:15 - 2:15 PM in the auditorium.
Snacktivities with New York Cares - June 5th 1 PM
Paramount Volunteer Day Special Breakfast and also a limited participant Kickboxing Event - Wednesday June 11th
Senior Prom - June 17th
Drama Club Performance: TBA
General Program Updates
Food Pantry
If you are interested in pantry items, stop by the office Wednesday between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
Volunteer Appointments
We have volunteers on site Monday through Friday 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Evening volunteers beginning at 5:00 PM are also available. We can not accommodate walk-ins, please make an appointment with Ann De Shazo ext. 225.
Case Assistance and Applications By Appointment
Please call the office to make appointments for any of the following services: faxing documents, making copies, application assistance, benefits assistance like HEAP, Medicaid, Medicare, Homecare services, Money Identifiers, re-certifications, assistance filling out any forms. Rocky is available on Tuesday and Carmen is available for VCB application assistance on Tuesday and Thursday. We can also assist with money identifier applications.
Join Our Senior Council and Make a Difference!
We invite you to become a member of our Senior Council and help shape the future of our center. Our Senior Council is composed of dedicated individuals who work together to address the needs and interests of our senior members. By joining one of our committees, you can contribute your unique perspective and help us create a vibrant and fulfilling community for all. To learn more, stop by the main office. Senior Council meetings are held monthly.
Bar Codes
As a reminder, please bring your DFTA barcode to be scanned for meals. No one will be denied a meal if you don't have one or if you forget. Please reach out to Diana or Elizabeth for a bar code. Please note that in the event you lose your barcode fob you will be issued one complementary replacement. Should you lose the replacement barcode fob there is a $5 fee to replace it. Please ensure to keep your barcode fobs in a safe place.
Email Address
If you are interested in having the menu, events and other announcements sent please send an email to elee@visionsvcb.org. You will be added to our email listserv to get regular updates.
Current Services & Class Offerings
Current Services & Class Offerings
Self-Development Classes
Fitness and Evidence Based Classes
Creative Arts Classes
Technology Classes
Support Groups
Online/ Telephone Classes
Information and advocacy
Volunteers & Readers
Farmers Market vouchers, Seasonal Produce Bag
Daily Meal Service *Vegetarian options offered daily
Benefits and Case Assistance
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