The dancer, the singer, the cellist … and a moment of creative magic Legendary dance choreographer Bill T. Jones and TED Fellows Joshua Roman and Somi didn’t know exactly what was going to happen when they took the stage at TED2015. They just knew they wanted to offer the audience an opportunity to witness creative collaboration in action. The result: An improvised piece they call “The Red Circle and the Blue Curtain,” so extraordinary it had to be shared. Click here. .

The Best Winter Salad Salads can be an afterthought with most meals, but this apple walnut winter salad is made with a lot of intention. It is great winter salad! Click here.       SilverSneakers: Stay Hydrated See all the different ways to stay hydrated which is so important as we age and at any age. Click here.   Valentine’s Day: The History of Saint Valentine The history of Saint Valentine with Dave Stotts. Click here.

Upcoming Events

Good Pet, Great Life! – Behavior 101 for Cats, Dogs, and Their Humans!
Saturday, February 14: 2:00pm – 3:30pm –  Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library – Second Floor

Animal Welfare League of Alexandria’s (AWLA) Behavior and Training Manager will provide tips for living harmoniously with your dog or cat at home, answer specific questions about your pet, and chat about AWLA’s Alexandria Animal Academy.
Click here.

Painternoon – A monthly painting club! – Wednesday, February 18 –
3:00pm – 4:30pm –  Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library – Second Floor

Let’s paint at the library! Ejoy a tutorial with instructions on how to create the monthly painting or create your own unique work of art!
Click here.

Senior Services of Alexandria/At Home in Alexandria
Exploring Horizons: Senior Education & Travel – Wednesday, Feb. 18 –
10 am – Beatley Central Library – 5005 Duke Street

This event will feature expert speakers discussing continuing educational opportunities for older adults in the Washington, DC region, as well as travel options–both locally and beyond. It will be a fun and informative free program. To register email events@seniorservicesalex.org. or call 703-836-4414, ext. 110.

The post SSA Connection – February 12th! appeared first on Senior Services of Alexandria.

Why having fun is the secret to a healthier life Have you had your daily dose of fun? It’s not just enjoyable, it’s also essential for your health and happiness, says science journalist Catherine Price. She proposes a new definition of fun — what she calls “true fun” — and shares easy, evidence-backed ways to weave playfulness, flow and connection into your everyday life. Click here. .

Homemade Chicken Soup Check out this recipe from the Test Kitchen for a chicken soup that is perfect for a cold evening. Click her       Seated Cardio and Strength Get a jump start on your exercise journey with this video. Click here.     The Day in the Life of a Museum Curator Meet Chris Lloyd, a Museum Curator, with the Office of Historic Alexandria. Click here.

Upcoming Events

America250 Commemoration Kickoff – December 9 – 6:30 pm
The Lyceum – 201 S. Washington Street

Historic Alexandria will officially launch its America250 commemoration with a public kick-off event at the Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum. The evening will feature guest speakers exploring the significance of America’s 250th anniversary and Virginia’s role in telling a fuller, more inclusive American story.
Click here.

Senior Services of Alexandria/At Home in Alexandria
Exploring Horizons: Senior Education & Travel – Wednesday, Feb. 18
10 am – Beatley Central Library – 5005 Duke Street

This event will feature expert speakers discussing continuing educational opportunities for older adults in the Washington, DC region, as well as travel options–both locally and beyond. It will be a fun and informative free program. To register email events@seniorservicesalex.org. or call 703-836-4414, ext. 110.

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Click here to purchase Gala tickets or your sponsorship!

Click here for more information about the February 18th Speaker Series!

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How to be a Good Ancestor Our descendants own the future, but the decisions and actions we make now will tremendously impact generations to come, says philosopher Roman Krznaric. From a global campaign to grant legal personhood to nature to a groundbreaking lawsuit by a coalition of young activists, Krznaric shares examples of ways we can become good ancestors — or, as he calls them, “Time Rebels.” Click here. .

Chicken Piccata Check out the Barefoot Contessa’s recipe for chicken piccata. Click here.         SilverSneakers: 1,200 Steps in 15 Minutes See how to get your daily steps inside. Click here.     Explaining the Origins of Groundhog Day Groundhog Day is almost here. Ever wondered how it started? Click here.

Upcoming Events

American Revolution – Episode 2 watch party – An Asylum for Mankind
Wednesday, February 4 – 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library – Large Meeting Room

Join us at the Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library for Episode 2 of Ken Burn’s newest documentary, The American Revolution.
Click here.

Singing the Journey: Still We Rise – Free Black History Month Concert
Sunday – February 8 – 3-5 pm – Lyceum – 201 S. Washington Street

Join Washington Revels Jubilee Voices and the Office of Historic Alexandria’s Division of African American History for a concert celebrating African American music, history and culture in a concert exploring the themes of freedom, resilience, and joy, from the Civil War through the present day.
Click here.

Senior Services of Alexandria/At Home in Alexandria
Exploring Horizons: Senior Education & Travel – Wednesday, Feb. 18 
 10 am – Beatley Central Library – 5005 Duke Street

This event will feature expert speakers discussing continuing educational opportunities for older adults in the Washington, DC region, as well as travel options–both locally and beyond. It will be a fun and informative free program. To register email events@seniorservicesalex.org. or call 703-836-4414, ext. 110.

The post SSA Connection – January 29th! appeared first on Senior Services of Alexandria.

Silence, the Universal Medicine In a world growing louder, faster and more fractured, author Pico Iyer makes the case for a radical act of repair. Explore why tapping into silence may be the best medicine you can give yourself, and everyone around you. Click here.

Mashed Potatoes Recipe This simple homemade mashed potatoes recipe is rich, creamy, and full of flavor! It’s an easy to make classic side dish that goes with everything and comes together in a snap. You’ll love the garlic flavor and creamy, light texture. Click here.       SilverSneakers: Getting Up and Down From the Floor Safely Check out this short video with tips on getting up and down from the floor. Click here.     Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream Speech” In honor of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal holiday earlier this week, here is a video of his I Have a Dream speech. Click here.

Upcoming Events

Downsizing: Moving to a Smaller Home – Is it the right move for you?
Friday, January 23: 11:00am – 12:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library – Large Meeting Room

Thinking about downsizing your living space but don’t know where to begin. Join us for an in depth conversation about how to start the process of relocating to a new home.
Click here.

American Revolution – Episode 1 watch party –
Wednesday, January 28: 2:00pm – 4:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library – Meeting Room – free

Join us at the Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library for Episode 1 of Ken Burn’s newest documentary, The American Revolution.
Click here.

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A Night of Celebration Ahead: SSA’s 2026 Annual Gala

Senior Services of Alexandria is delighted to announce our 2026 Annual Gala, taking place on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 6:00–10:00 p.m. at the Westin Alexandria Old Town. We look forward to an unforgettable evening as city officials, community partners, and supporters from across the region come together once again to celebrate SSA’s mission and the remarkable impact we continue to make in the lives of older adults.

This year’s Gala will feature an elegant dinner, lively entertainment, a dynamic raffle, and a beautifully curated silent auction , all in support of the essential programs that help Alexandria seniors thrive.

A highlight of the evening will be a special tribute to the extraordinary individuals whose leadership, service, and compassion have strengthened our community. We are honored to recognize:

Gala 2026 honorees:

Community Leadership Award:
Allen Lomax
Donna Shaw

Community Service Award:
Deacon Albert & Beverly Anderson

Community Spirit Award:
Gayle Reuter

whose dedication and service continue to uplift seniors and support those most in need.

SSA is grateful for the ongoing support of our sponsors, partners, and attendees who help make this celebration possible. Your generosity fuels the programs that provide meals, companionship, education, and trusted resources to seniors throughout Alexandria.

Mark your calendars and stay tuned additional details, ticket information, and opportunities to support the event will be shared soon. We look forward to celebrating with you at the 2026 Gala, a night that promises to be inspiring, joyful, and truly one to remember.

Click here to purchase tickets or your sponsorship!

PRESENTING SPONSOR

PLATINUM SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS

Assisting Hands Home Care
Leona & Lynnwood Campbell
Comfort Keepers Home Care
Thomas J. Fannon and Sons, Inc.
Friedman, Grimes, Meinken & Leischner. PLLC
Goodwin Living
Donita Greene & Greene Funeral Home
KWC, CPA
The Landing/The Riviera
Redella S. Pepper
Mark N. Roth
Donna & Michael Shaw
Sunrise Senior Living
SYNERGY HomeCare

SILVER SPONSORS

Alexandria Toyota
Barbara Brenman
Cherry Blossom PACE
Corcoran-McEnearney
Carter Flemming
Hughes & Leighton, PLLC
Inova
Brooksie Koopman & Mark Eaton
Arthur Peabody, Jr. & Lucy Thomson
Retirement Unlimited, Inc.
Shannon & Wright LLP
Signature Estate & Investment Advisors (SEIA)
Silverado Alexandria Memory Care
Walsh, Colucci, Lubeley & Walsh, P.C.

BRONZE SPONSORS

AARP
David Baker & Sandra von Kampen
Janet Barnett
Brightview Alexandria
Caring Considerations
Clarke & Sampson Insurance
Cogir Senior Living
Donna Cramer & John Woods
Sue & David Dolton
Linda & Earl Durand
Focus Data Solutions
The Goodhart Group
Griswold Home Care
Mary & Jim Hanagan
Jeanne Jacob & Gerry Frank
John Marshall Bank
Claudia Kostel
Gordon Kromberg
LionHeart Eldercare & Consulting
Beth & Erik Milito
Planning for Life, Inc.
M. Catharine Puskar
Dr. Thomas & Norma Roberts
Simpson Development Co., Inc.
Vivek Sinha, MD
Tilden Memory Care & Assisted Living
VHC Health- Senior Health Department
Carolyn & Roland Wilder
Susan & Allan Winn

View the 2025 Gala photos here!

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Senior Services of Alexandria and At Home in Alexandria are hosting a Speaker Series event “Exploring Horizons: Senior Education and Travel” on Wednesday, February 18 at Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke Street, 10 – 11:30 am. This event will feature expert speakers talking about continuing education opportunities for older adults in the Washington, DC region,  as well traveling – both locally and beyond. We hope you will join us for this informative and fun event!

Click for the flyer

Please RSVP by email at events@seniorservicesalex.org or call (703) 836 4414 EXT. 110.

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Why Friendship Can be Just as Meaningful as Romantic Love We tend to consider romantic partners and family ties to be our most important relationships, but deep friendships can be just as meaningful. In a perspective-shifting talk, author Rhaina Cohen introduces us to the people unsettling norms by choosing a friend as a life partner — and shows why we’re all better off recognizing there’s more than one kind of significant other. Click here.

Best Beef Stew Check out the Preppy Kitchen’s recipe for a delicious beef stew. Click here.       5 Exercises to Help Sciatica Pain This video offers simple exercises to help with sciatica pain. Click here.     London’s National Gallery Art Talk This short video gives an explanation of why the Great Masters and other artists sign their works of art. Click here.

Upcoming Events

Senior Services of Alexandria’s January 21st Speaker Series:
Resilience and Renewal: Caregiver Workshop
Wednesday, January 21 – Beatley Library – 5005 Duke Street

Caring for a loved one is a rewarding but often challenging journey. Join Senior Services of Alexandria for a special event designed to help family caregivers with practical tools, expert advice and local resources. A panel of experts will guide you through essential strategies for maintaining your own well-being while providing the best care for others. It is a free event, but please register at events@seniorservicesalex.org or call 703-836-4414, ext. 110.

Banned Book Club – Explore and Unpack Challenged and Banned Books
Tuesday, January 20: 6:00pm – 7:00pm – Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library – Small Conference Room

The book club will promote freedom of expression and support authors whose books have been banned or challenged.
Click here.

America250 commemoration Kickoff – Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum
201 S. Washington Street – Monday, January 26 – 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Historic Alexandria will officially launch its America250 commemoration with a public kick-off event on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at the The Lyceum. The evening will feature guest speakers exploring the significance of America’s 250th anniversary and Virginia’s role in telling a fuller, more inclusive American story. It is a free event.
To register click here.

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