Important Update for Members Using SilverSneakers Through Blue Cross Blue Shield

We regretfully inform you that Blue Cross Blue Shield has made the difficult decision to end its participation in the SilverSneakers program effective December 31, 2025. 

If your membership is currently covered through this benefit, your membership at the Center will remain active through that date. After December 31, you will need to update or renew your membership directly with us. To make the transition easier, we are offering a 90-day grace period — giving you until March 31, 2026 to renew without losing your membership status. Please note that we are not able to prorate memberships. 

We understand that Blue Cross and SilverSneakers are also sending information about this change, but we want to make sure you hear it directly from us as well. If you have questions about your benefits, please contact your insurance carrier directly. If you have questions about your membership at the Center, we are here to help. 

PZSC Annual Holiday Bazaar and Bake Sale

Saturday, November 8 

9 AM – 2 PM 

The holiday season is right around the corner, and what better way to kick it off than with one of our most festive traditions—the PZSC Annual Holiday Bazaar & Bake Sale! 

Join us for a cheerful day filled with holiday shopping, seasonal treats, and community spirit. Explore handcrafted gifts, festive décor, and homemade baked goods created by talented local artisans and bakers. We’ll also offer concessions and free hot chocolate! 

Whether you’re checking gifts off your list, indulging in seasonal sweets, or just soaking up the holiday atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. Admission is free, and all are welcome—so bring your family, friends, and neighbors! 

Holiday Bazaar & Bake Sale Calling All Bakers!

Share Your Talents & Support a Great Cause

Are you known for your irresistible cookies, pies, breads, or sweet treats? Do friends and family rave about your holiday baking? Here’s your chance to put your kitchen talents to good use and support your community at the same time! We’re looking for generous and talented bakers to donate homemade baked goods for the PZSC Annual Holiday Bazaar and Bake Sale on Saturday, November 8, 2025. This cherished community event draws hundreds of shoppers looking for seasonal goodies, and your contributions help make it a delicious success! All proceeds from the Bake Sale go directly toward supporting the programs, services, and activities offered at the Portage Zhang Senior Center, benefiting older adults in our community year-round. Whether you can whip up a batch of your famous fudge, bake a tray of holiday cookies, or donate a homemade pie or loaf of bread, every item helps, and every bite makes a difference. 

Interested in Donating Baked Goods? Please contact Kimberly Middleton, Deputy Director at (269) 329-4554.

Help us spread holiday cheer—one sweet bite at a time!

Ukulele Class All Levels

6 – Week Series

Thursdays, October 30 – December 11 (No Class 11/27)

12:30 – 2 PM

$80 Members / $90 Non-Members

Instructed by Josh Holcomb

Learning a new instrument is good for your health and has many health benefits including increased eye-hand coordination, lower stress levels, improved brain function, focus, and mental clarity. Join us at the PSC for a six-week ukulele class for beginners and those who have previous ukulele experience. Learn chords, and techniques and learn to play ukulele songs. All materials, including ukuleles, will be provided for students during the class. Participants are welcome to bring their own ukulele; however, ukuleles are available for use on loan if needed. *Financial assistance is available. Please call (269) 329-4555 to register

Coping with the Holidays Workshop

Wednesday, November 5

6 – 7:30 PM

Free and Open to the Public Facilitator: Mary Beckley-Clark, Grief Support Counselor

In this workshop, you will commemorate loved ones who have died, develop coping strategies for the holiday season, and learn self-care techniques. You will make a keepsake ornament to bring home with you. This program is generously sponsored by Centrica Care Navigators. To register for this workshop, please call (269) 329-4555.

Veterans Day Breakfast at the Air Zoo

Tuesday, November 11

8 - 9 AM

Location: Air Zoo, 6151 Portage Road, Portage 49002 Veterans FREE / Guests $20

Join us as we honor those who served! We are excited to again partner with the Air Zoo to host a special Veterans Day Breakfast - a time to gather, share stories, and connect with fellow veterans. Guests will enjoy a classic breakfast, hear from special guests, and experience the incredible exhibits and atmosphere of the Air Zoo.

We are deeply grateful to the Friends of the Portage Zhang Senior Center for partnering with us to offer this event this year and for Visiting Angels Southwest Michigan for returning as our Stars and Stripes Sponsor! Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot today by calling (269) 329-4555.

(Please note: There will be no Veterans Group Luncheon at the PZSC in November.)

Men’s Only Grief Support Group 

November 19, December 3, 10, 17 (4-Week Series)

10 – 11:30 AM

FREE, Open to the Public

Facilitated by Matthew Carlson, LLMSW, Grief Support Counselor, Centrica Care Navigators

Grief touches every life, yet the way we cope with loss can look very different from person to person. For many men, the process of grieving may feel isolating, unspoken, or difficult to share. This four-week support group is designed exclusively for men who are navigating the death of a loved one.

Guided by an experienced facilitator, participants will come together in a safe, respectful, and supportive setting to explore the challenges of grief, learn strategies for healing, and discover the strength that comes from shared experience. Each session builds on the one before it, offering opportunities to connect with others, express emotions, and find healthy ways to move forward.

Because consistency is essential to the group’s success, attendance is required for all four sessions. This commitment helps foster trust, continuity, and meaningful progress for everyone involved. To register, call (269) 329-4555.