Catholic Charities’ Good Shepherd Family Center senior programs offer fun, fitness, socialization
A recent retiree, Lisa knows that movement matters — and social connection. She worked for the Diocese of Cleveland for 27 years, ending her career at Our Lady of the Lake School after 14 years as an administrative assistant. At 66, she was ready to enjoy life and help out with her young grandson. A devoted walker, she was intrigued by an ad for free exercise classes at Catholic Charities’ senior center in the Good Shepherd Family Center in Euclid.
A recent retiree, Lisa knows that movement matters — and social connection. She worked for the Diocese of Cleveland for 27 years, ending her career at Our Lady of the Lake School after 14 years as an administrative assistant. At 66, she was ready to enjoy life and help out with her young grandson. A devoted walker, she was intrigued by an ad for free exercise classes at Catholic Charities’ senior center in the Good Shepherd Family Center in Euclid.
“I had heard about ‘senior citizens,’ but I thought, ‘That’s not me.’ My attitude changed when I went to visit. Everyone was so welcoming. They see you as a person and you can feel the love and care.”
Lisa goes to the small group exercise classes every Tuesday and Thursday morning and stays for lunch afterward. She’s improved physically, and her doctor agrees. The classes include stretching, movement, strengthening and chair yoga.
“It’s changed my life. It does so much for people who need exercise, a hot meal and socialization. There’s no cost, you can wear any clothes and not compete against a younger person. We have people of all abilities, including a man who is blind and a woman with a walker. I call it ‘Senior Camp,’ because it’s like what kids do, with lunch, crafts and exercise.”
Lisa was surprised by all that’s offered at the center, including guest speakers, Bible study, cognitive challenges and trivia games, educational discussions and more. “I always wonder about older people at home, not socializing. This is a place to be around other people who are young at heart and spirit.”
She appreciates the staff who take part in the programs themselves. She attends a Baptist church and has invited other friends and family to join her in the exercise classes. “It’s open to all. I always bring Jesus wherever I go.”
Fast facts: 2026 Catholic Charities Appeal
Goal: $15.3 million
Why: To provide diverse, critical services for people of all races and religious throughout the eight-county Diocese of Cleveland.
How to give:
- Go online and donate on the secure website at catholiccommunity.org/2026Appeal.
- Use the pledge card and envelope included with the bishop’s annual letter.
- Text to Donate by texting CCHope to 216.223.9372.
- Call 800.696.6525, Ext. 1910 to give by phone.
- Send your gift to Catholic Charities Appeal, 1404 E. Ninth St., eighth floor, Cleveland, Ohio 44114.
