The Gilpin County Seniors gathered for lunch at the Gilpin County Community Center at 250 Norton Drive in Black Hawk on May 24, where they were surprised with a generous $5,000 donation from the Caesars Foundation and the Horseshoe Casino.

The event saw the presence of Commissioners Sandy Hollingsworth, Susan Berumen, and Marie Mornis.

Resident Steve Compton highlighted the variety of presentations and activities that follow the Senior lunches, which include topics such as identity protection, audio books for the hard of hearing, and bingo. Additionally, the program offers a Senior Fitness class before lunch, promoting a balanced day of exercise, nutritious food, and engaging activities.

“It’s a good change of pace from what I cook at home,” Compton remarked, noting the diverse menu that features entrees like salmon and Salisbury steak. Each month, a new menu is printed to inform the seniors of the available meal options.

At 1 p.m. representatives from the Horseshoe Casino presented a large check to the seniors, as part of their community outreach efforts. Executives Brandon Pulliam, Matt Lindberg, and Norris Hamilton joined the commissioners and Senior Services Coordinator Mary Ellen Makosky for a photo with the donation.

Lindberg expressed the foundation’s pleasure in supporting the community, mentioning that they have distributed approximately $3 million to non-profits nationwide over the last three months. This donation marks the fourth local non-profit to benefit from their contributions. He also extended an invitation to the seniors to visit the Horseshoe Casino for cricket or a meal.

Makosky conveyed her gratitude to everyone present, particularly the Horseshoe Casino and the Caesars Foundation for their continued support. She noted that this is the third consecutive year they have received this donation, which will help cover the costs of lunches, Community Center admission for seniors and veterans, the senior fitness class, and future field trips once staffing is complete.

The Gilpin County Community Center serves hot, nutritious, and delicious lunches for seniors and their spouses twice a week. The Senior Program also provides transportation for seniors and their spouses living in Gilpin County, including scheduled luncheons, weekly grocery shopping trips, and medical and dental visits, with door-to-door service provided.

In addition to meals and transportation, the Senior Program offers various educational and recreational activities. Those interested in joining can contact Mary Ellen Makosky at 303-515-4292 to sign up for the monthly events calendar mailing list. The calendar is also available weekly in The Mountain-Ear.