A Place to Gather, Grow, and Belong

Welcome to The Center (aka Solvang Senior Center)—your home base for connection, creativity, and community in the Santa Ynez Valley. Whether you’re here to try something new, lend a hand, or simply share a cup of coffee with a neighbor, there’s a place for you here.

We offer programs, resources, and a warm welcome for adults in life’s later chapters—those looking to stay engaged, supported, and surrounded by good people, at every stage of the journey.

  LEND A HAND.           MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS.           VOLUNTEER.  

An elderly woman and a middle-aged woman smiling and holding hands outdoors, with trees and a blurred building in the background.

VOLUNTEER WITH US

It only takes a little
to mean a lot.

The Center runs on community—and volunteers are at the heart of it. Whether you're here to serve lunch, lead a class, or offer a friendly ride, your time makes a real difference. There’s no pressure, just possibility. We’ll find something that fits your schedule and your strengths. You don’t need to be an expert—just a kind soul with a little time to give.

— Lunch This Week —

CALENDAR

There’s Always Something Happening

Whether you’re looking to move, make, learn, or simply connect, The Center’s calendar is full of ways to stay engaged. From one-time workshops to weekly meet-ups, there’s something for everyone—and always a warm welcome waiting.

Browse by category:

  • Health & Wellness →

  • Creative & Social →

  • Lifelong Learning →

  • Special Events →

From the Center: Updates & Info

NEWS & RESOURCES

News
Building the Future: A New Home for the Solvang Senior Center
Building the Future: A New Home for the Solvang Senior Center

The Values That Define Us

From the way we greet you at the door to the programs we offer each week—our values shape everything we do.

Belonging. Dignity. Curiosity. Compassion. Joy.

We believe in honoring every stage of life, creating space for connection, and finding meaning in the everyday. Whether you're here to try something new or simply share a coffee with a neighbor, you're in the right place.

Group of older adults on a trolley celebrating with patriotic decorations, wearing red, white, blue, and yellow clothing, some holding American flags, inside a decorated trolley.
An elderly woman and man are sitting at a table. The woman has short gray hair, is wearing a floral blazer, beaded necklaces, and has a name tag. The man has gray hair, is wearing a red Hawaiian shirt, and a large black beaded necklace. Both are smiling. In the background, another elderly man with glasses and a light shirt is looking at a paper.
Group of elderly women and one elderly man wearing colorful floral dresses and leis, playing ukuleles while sitting in a row in a room.
Two elderly women sitting at a table with floral leis and bright attire, smiling at a social gathering or party.
A group of people sitting on a flatbed trailer, smiling, wearing hats, in a sunny outdoor setting with trees and a clear blue sky.

  • I came for the chair yoga—stayed for the friends, coffee, and belly laughs. This place keeps me young!”

    — Marilyn J., member since 2022

  • We recently moved to Solvang and my wife just moved into Friendship House. Although we have a few friends here, I'm so glad that I found the Center. I love the walking group, have found folks to cycle with and just love the monthly dinner nights.

    Jim H.

  • After my husband passed, the days got awfully quiet. Joining the book group changed that. It’s not just the stories we read—it’s the stories we share.

    Marjorie D.

  • Volunteering at The Center has been the best decision I’ve made in retirement. It reminds me that I still have so much to give.

    Anita S.

  • Love the field trips. Everyone is always smiling and happy to help you. They make us feel like we matter.

    Irina M.