Sun Lakes Activity Guide

Updated February 2022

Information presented here has been gathered from the respective instructors. All class times, fees and meeting locations are subject to change. If you have any questions, please consult your Sun Lakes Source Book™ for instructor contact information. We apologize if we inadvertently missed any activity or organization. If you would like your group included in this guide, please click here to contact our Source Book Coordinator. Thanks, and enjoy your guide!

Activity Guide Categories

Arts & Crafts | Books/Literature Discussion Group | Cards & Games | Dance & Music | Education |Golf | Hobbies & Clubs | Performing Arts | Religious Organizations | Service Organizations |Social Organizations | Sports | Swim & Fitness | Writing

Arts & Crafts

AGAVE QUILTERS GUILD

We meet on the first Wednesday of each month, September-May in the Navajo Room, SLCC Phase 1 at 1pm. Members participate in classes, special interest groups and philanthropic endeavors. Guests are welcome to attend two meetings for a nominal fee prior to joining.

DESERT ARTISTS CLUB (DAC)

Desert Artists Club meets Tuesday afternoons from 3 to 6 p.m. in the Ceramics Room A-8 at Cottonwood. All mediums and skill levels are welcome. Living within the reciprocal Sun Lakes Community is required.

DESERT THREADS, A CHAPTER OF ARIZONA QUILT GUILD

Desert Threads was established to promote the appreciation of quilts through fellowship, education and community service projects. We have fun, laugh, learn and welcome new members. Come as a guest and see for yourself!

OAKWOOD ARTISTS’ LEAGUE (OAL)

Experienced artists in oil, acrylic, watercolor, pencil, pastel and/or mixed media are welcome to join. We meet on Friday (9 a.m. – 4 p.m.) in the Oakwood Arts and Crafts building in the Art Room. Workshops are held most months on the second Tuesday.

SEW-N-SEWS

We are a friendly group of sewists, from beginner to experienced, who share a love of fabric and needle arts. We welcome new members and guests to join us on the 2nd Wednesday, September through May, at 1:00 pm in the Navajo Room of the Sun Lakes Country Club. Monthly meeting features a speaker or a demonstration along with “Show and Tell” to display our latest accomplishments. Classes are offered to members to share their skills and love of sewing.

SPIRIT OF THE DESERT GOURD PATCH

A group of about 50 artists, of all abilities and many disciplines, who enjoy turning gourds into art. We are an Arizona Gourds Society sanctioned patch, open to anyone in the valley who has something to learn or share. Meeting every 3rd Thursday, Oct-April in Arts & Crafts Room of SLCC, 4-6 p.m. Visit www.spiritdesertgourds.com for more information.

SUN LAKES ARTS & CRAFTS ASSOCIATION

1. To promote and advance the understanding and appreciation of arts and crafts among all residents of Sun Lakes.

2. To provide an organization for people interested in arts, artisans, and craftspersons for their mutual benefit.

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Books/Literature Discussion Groups

COTTONWOOD-PALO VERDE LIBRARY

The Cottonwood Palo Verde Library is an honor-based library stocked with books and media donated by members of the CWPV community to be shared with fellow residents. There is no need to formally check out a book – just take it, read it, and return it. The library is located at Cottonwood Country Club in the courtyard area, opposite the Cottonwood Pro Shop and is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.  Trained community volunteers sort and process donated books and reshelve books being returned by readers.  The library is also one of the community WiFi hotspots where you can surf the internet while in the library.

GREAT BOOKS

This is not the usual book group. This group of men and women reads short stories and essays written by diverse authors on a weekly basis and discusses the assigned reading at the meeting. The group meets every Friday from about October 1 to May 1 at 10 a.m. until about 11:15 a.m. at a private home outdoors (during COVID) or at the Oakwood clubhouse, usually in the Library but other locations in the same building may on occasion be posted at the entry to the clubhouse.

NEW FRIENDS OF THE MARICOPA COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT ED ROBSON BRANCH

The Friends supports the Maricopa County Library District Ed Robson branch in its endeavors; providing for programs, publications, and items as needed.

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Cards & Games

COTTONWOOD LADIES BRIDGE ASSOCIATION

We meet every Thursday for bridge and sociability 1:00 p.m. in the Mirror Room, Phase 1.

COTTONWOOD MEXICAN TRAIN

Play Mexican Train dominoes on Fridays at 6:30 pm in Men’s card room. Call for more details.

EUCHRE CLUB

Sunday night euchre meets at 6:15 p.m. at Sun Lakes Country Club in the Friendship Room.

GAME NIGHT FOR WOMEN

A group for vaccinated women to play board games and card games. We meet twice per week. Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. in Oakwood and Friday at 6:00 p.m. in Cottonwood. Our members live in Sun Lakes. We have a group listed in Next Door where you can request to join. If you are not vaccinated but willing to wear a mask covering your nose and mouth, you are welcome to join.

IRONOAKS LADIES’ BRIDGE

Open to all residents of Sun Lakes, play intermediate bridge every Friday, at 12:30 p.m. at Sun Lakes Country Club in the Arts & Crafts Room.

MAH JONGG CLUB

Open game for experienced players on Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 10:00 p.m. and Mondays from 12:00 to 3:45 p.m. in Room A-2 at Cottonwood. Call first.

OAKWOOD LADIES’ BRIDGE

Ladies’ social bridge meets on Wednesdays from noon to 4:00 p.m. in the Bradford Room at the Oakwood Clubhouse.

POKER – SANDBAGGERS

Call for information.

SUN LAKES COUNTRY CLUB – SOCIAL BRIDGE (SATURDAY)

Saturday, Partnership Bridge at 8:45 a.m. held in the SLCC Friendship Room.

SUN LAKES DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB

With more than 400 members, our ACBL-accredited club has four open games weekly at Risen Savior Lutheran Church, 23419 S Alma School Rd year round.  Mon, Tues, Thurs @ 1:30 p.m. and Saturday @ 9:00 a.m. See separate listing for novice and intermediate games. Go to bridgewebs.com/sunlakes for club information.

SUN LAKES FUN BRIDGE

Good fun – non-cut-throat bridge. We have duplicate players and party bridge players. Usually we have 4-6 tables; home is the Arts & Crafts Room in Phase One. Time – 12:15 to 3:30 p.m. on Wednesdays.

SUN LAKES NOVICE & INTERMEDIATE BRIDGE

Weekly ACBL-accredited games – advanced intermediate (0-499) Tues and Thurs 1:30 pm, intermediate (0-199) Sat 9:00 am, novice (0-99) Thurs 8:15 am. Partnership assistance available, but no partner necessary for Novice game. All games at Risen Savior Lutheran Church, 23419 Alma School Rd. Go to bridgewebs.com/sunlakes for pandemic on-line game schedule.

TUESDAY CANASTA

Played with tables of four with a different combination of people each week. Meet new people. Come on to Poolside in Oakwood and join us Tuesdays from 12:30 to 4:00 p.m., for Social Canasta.

WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY NIGHT PINOCHLE

Meets at 6:15 p.m.

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Dance & Music

CHORDAIRES SHOW CHORUS

A friendly, fun and dynamic group of women who sing and entertain in 4 part harmony, a cappella and Barbershop style with popular, well-loved songs – everything from Broadway musicals to jazz, gospel, rock ‘n roll and other types of music. We perform a Spring show every April, and a holiday show in December in our community. Our chorus accepts bookings throughout the year for community, club, civic, church and private events. Contact Performance Chair – Ginger Henry (575) 497-9447 for booking. We rehearse Thursday afternoons from 1 to 3:30 p.m. in the Mirror Room at SLCC. For more information visit us a www.chordaires.org.

COTILLION DANCE CLUB

The Cotillion Dance Club provides its members and guests with events and facilities for fine dining, dancing to live music, and fellowship. There are four dinner dance events produced each season from November to March. The dinner/dances are formal affairs. We welcome new members. If you are interested in our club we would love to have you attend a dance as our guest. Advanced ticket purchase is required. We provide group dance lessons to member and their guests. Visit our website www.cotilliondanceclubaz.com.

SUN LAKES JEWISH CONGREGATION CHOIR

Social group rehearses Tuesdays, 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. at the Sun Lakes Chapel Center. Some knowledge of music is beneficial.

SUN LAKES SUNDAY DANCE CLUB

Enjoy popular local bands and orchestras play 40’s-70’s Big Band to Doo Wop to Rat Pack music. Couples and singles welcome to listen or dance their favorite ballroom or swings. Optional dinners available with open bar. Go to website for detailed info:  Sunlakes-sundaydanceclub.com.

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Education

COMPUTER BOOTERS

The Computer Booters is a multi-platform (Windows & MAC) technology organization providing information on all aspects of technology. We embrace computers, smartphones, iPads, tablets, televisions, etc. We welcome members of all levels of experience and learn from each other. Monthly meetings are held on the first Wednesday of the month via Zoom beginning with a Q&A/social session at 9:30. An informative presentation is given by a guest speaker on a topic of interest. Lunch ‘n Learn is held on the third Wednesday of the month. Join us for lunch and bring your questions for your fellow members. We’ll find an answer! Current information including a membership application and membership benefits are on the website, www.computerbooters.org.  Please join us; you won’t be disappointed.

NEW ADVENTURES IN LEARNING

New Adventures in Learning is a lifelong learning institute. Its mission is to provide a variety of interesting and educational opportunities at a reasonable cost to retirees and interested adults of the Southeast Valley. It is an independent, self-governed, volunteer organization partnered with Chandler-Gilbert Community College. Its programs are held at the college’s Sun Lakes Center on the NE corner of Riggs and Alma School Roads. Visit our website: www.newadventures.info.

SUN LAKES APPLE COMPUTER CLUB

Our mission is to provide a forum that is educational, supportive, and fun – where we can all learn to get the most from our Apple devices regardless of our knowledge level. We are a no fee club and our objective is to remain so. Typically we hold classroom sessions the first Monday of each month with workshops to follow. In addition, we offer one on one problem solving sessions for members. Look for our schedule of classes, information about our one on one sessions, and how to subscribe to our website: sunlakesappleclub.com.

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Golf

IRONWOOD LADIES GOLF ASSOCIATION

Ironwood Ladies 18-Hole Golf Association – fun, friendly yet challenging short course (Par 67). Year-round competition every Thursday offers a variety of games.

IRONWOOD LADY NINERS

To encourage and advance women in league play in an environment that promotes self-improvement, camaraderie, and good sportsmanship. IWLN plays in accordance with the USGA and local rules, as well as, generally accepted standards of golf etiquette.

MEN’S IRONOAKS NINE HOLE GOLF ASSOCIATION (NINERS)

We are an association of golfers that choose to play a 9-hole competition on a handicap basis. Play is by the rules of golf promoting friendship and fellowship. Residents of Sun Lakes are welcome to become members of the Niners.

MEN’S OAKWOOD GOLF ASSOCIATION (MOGA)

Men’s Golf Association – Oakwood Country Club. The club provides weekly events and competition throughout the year. Events include club championships, President’s Cup, Member/Member and Member/Guest.

OAKWOOD COUPLES 18-HOLE GOLF LEAGUE

Oakwood Couples 18 Hole Golf League meets two Fridays per month from November through May. The program is a variety of golf games followed by dinner in the winter months and a 7:30 am shotgun in May. It’s great socializing and competition-filled events. Couples only: both of whom must have an active GHIN handicap.

OAKWOOD NINE-HOLE COUPLES’ LEAGUE

This is a nine-hole couples’ league open to all of Sun Lakes. The game is followed by a dinner every other Friday, November through first week in May. An application is available on www.oakwood9holecouples.wixsite.com/oakwood-9h-couples.

PALO VERDE COUPLES GOLF LEAGUE

The Palo Verde Couples Golf League meets every Friday for 18 holes of fun-filled golf. We have year-round events and competition including the Couples Club Championship. Applications for membership are available at the Palo Verde Shop. Website: www.pvcouples.com

PALO VERDE LADY NINERS

Ladies if you like to play golf please contact us for more information.

SUN LAKES COUNTRY CLUB LADY NINERS

Sun Lakes Country Club Lady Niners play nine holes of golf Tuesdays at 9:00 a.m. All levels of golfers are welcome. Come join the fun!

SUN LAKES LADIES’ GOLF ASSOCIATION

Ladies, come and enjoy playing 18-holes of golf at the Sun Lakes Country Club. Call for more information.

SUN LAKES LADY PUTTERS

We play at Sisk Park in Palo Verde on Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs and at the putting greens in Oakwood on Tuesday. Pick the day you would like to play and join us for friendship and fun.

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Hobbies & Clubs

CHORDAIRES SHOW CHORUS

A friendly, fun and dynamic group of women who sing and entertain in 4 part harmony, a cappella and Barbershop style with popular, well-loved songs – everything from Broadway musicals to jazz, gospel, rock ‘n roll and other types of music. We perform a Spring show every April, and a holiday show in December in our community. Our chorus accepts bookings throughout the year for community, club, civic, church and private events. Contact Performance Chair – Ginger Henry (575) 497-9447 for booking. We rehearse Thursday afternoons from 1 to 3:30 p.m. in the Mirror Room at SLCC. For more information visit us at www.chordaires.org.

SHORT LINE MODEL RAILROAD CLUB

The Short Line Model Railroad Club, based out of the Sun Lakes community is a group of dedicated hobbyists that love, and are active in keeping the world of Model Railroading alive and well. In normal times, our club meets on the first Saturday of the month at the SunBird Community Center from September through May, barring conflicts with our major events. Over the years, our club has had many Open Houses where some special garden layouts are made available to the local communities. Additionally, with the availability of today’s technology, we have gone modular, featuring “N” scale layouts around the Valley that can be sized to fit whatever space the event hosts can provide for us. At the last Railfair in Scottsdale, we had a 30 x 30 foot tent to squeeze in several different options for the thousands that attend this three-day event annually. It’s not all work, as our club respects the social lives of the families involved, and sets aside two dates annually for get together with members and guests. One is typically a potluck at a park, and the other, a little more festive around the holidays. Feel free to contact us by email, or phone one of the numbers provided for more detailed information or any other questions you may have regarding the current World of Model Railroading.

SUN LAKES AERO CLUB

The SLAC is dedicated to serve members of widely varying interests to network in aeronautically similar areas such as sailplanes, home-builds, powered flying, radio controlled and rubber band powered models, etc., and to share general aviation participation. Experiences range from military, commercial, and airline pilots through private and pre-solo pilots. Some have tens of thousands of hours of logged pilot time, some have none, but all are welcome. Visit our website www.sunlakesaeroclub.org

SUN LAKES CAMERA CLUB

The Sun Lakes Camera Club meets at 6:30 p.m. on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays October through April in the Mirror Room of the Sun Lakes Club House. Photographers of all skill levels interested in improving their photographic skills through shared information and competition are encouraged to join the club. Typically the first meeting of the month is a workshop while the second meeting is a competition. Club members compete with prints and projected digital images. In addition, three or more field trips are planned to photogenic sites in the Southwest each club year. See our website: www.sunlakescameraclub.com for samples of members’ images and the most current club information.

SUN LAKES GARDEN CLUB

We are an independent, fun and educational club where members can learn all facets of horticulture, through field trips and expert speakers. Our club meets on the 3rd Tuesday of the month and members with any level of experience are welcome.

SUN LAKES ROADRUNNERS RV CLUB

To provide opportunities for travel, recreation and camaraderie to RV club members through planned rallies, social events and monthly club meetings.

SUN LAKES ROCK, GEM & SILVER CLUB

The Sun Lakes Rock, Gem & Silver Club (SLRGS) is one of Sun Lakes’ largest clubs. It emphasizes self-expression through learned skills and development of social relationships through classes, field trips, and social events. Members are offered classes in 19 different skills including lapidary, cast silver, stained glass, dichroic glass, silver construction, gourds, precious metal clay, silver wire, and faceting offered in three different shops. Once a class is completed, the member may use open shops to practice new skills with others practicing the same craft on an ongoing basis. Members interested in lapidary or travel may choose to participate in field trips to discover regional geology and acquire stone samples for their crafts or mineral collections. Meetings are held from October through April on the third Monday in the Navajo room at the Sun Lakes Country Club. The meeting starts at 10:00. Guests are welcome and encouraged to attend. For additional information please go to our website: www.SLRGS.com.

SUN LAKES SAVVY TRAVEL CLUB

The Savvy Travelers Club meets on the 2nd Thursday of every month at 6:30 p.m. in Saguaro Room of the Cottonwood Clubhouse. Join us for great money saving travel tips and insider information about all kinds of travel.

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Performing Arts

CHORDAIRES SHOW CHORUS

A friendly, fun and dynamic group of women who sing and entertain in 4 part harmony, a cappella and Barbershop style with popular, well-loved songs – everything from Broadway musicals to jazz, gospel, rock ‘n roll and other types of music. We perform a Spring show every April, and a holiday show in December in our community. Our chorus accepts bookings throughout the year for community, club, civic, church and private events. Contact Performance Chair – Ginger Henry (575) 497-9447 for booking. We rehearse Thursday afternoons from 1 to 3:30 p.m. in the Mirror Room at SLCC. For more information visit us at www.chordaires.org.

SUN LAKES CHORALE

The Sun Lakes Chorale has about 75 members, many of whom are part-time Sun Lakes residents. Singing together is a bonding experience. The longer we are members of the Chorale, the more members we get to know and the deeper our friendships become. We sing together and we laugh together.

The Chorale has certainly changed over the past twenty years, but we remain faithful to the founding principle that sharing our love of singing with each other and our community is our reason to exist. The experience of singing for an audience and wanting to touch their hearts in a memorable way warms our own hearts. Website: www.sunlakeschorale.com.

SUN LAKES COMMUNITY THEATRE

The Sun Lakes Community Theatre is open to anyone in Sun Lakes who has an interest in theatre, not just on stage, but in supporting activities as well. Depending upon the number of cast members and a play’s various special effects, it can take more than 50 members to produce a play. The club has over 100 members and holds its business and social meetings from October to April. See website for more information: www.slctinfo.com.

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Religious Organizations

CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S CLUB

Christian Women’s Club/Women’s Connection has been active in the Sun Lakes area since 1980 and is affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries. We currently meet from October to April, either the 2nd or 3rd Thursday of the month. Our events include a continental breakfast, fun/educational programs, musical talent and inspirational speakers. Non-denominational and no formal membership or dues. Look for our articles in the Splash for exact dates, time, location and program information.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH SUN LAKES

The First Baptist Church of Sun Lakes is a traditional church of joy whose mission is to glorify God by making disciples who have a passion to know Him, worship Him, obey Him, and make Him known. Join us each Sunday morning at 8:30 a.m. for Bible study and 10:00 a.m. for worship. Website: www.fbcsl.org.

FR JOHN ARENS COUNCIL 9678 – 3RD DEGREE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS

The Knights of Columbus is the world’s largest Catholic family fraternal service organization with 1.8 million members. It provides members and their families with volunteer opportunities in service to the Catholic Church, their communities, families and young people. The Knights of Columbus is a Pro-life Organization.

RISEN SAVIOR LUTHERAN CHURCH

Risen Savior Lutheran Church is a family of ministries committed to sharing the transforming love of Jesus Christ with people of all ages.

RISEN SAVIOR LUTHERAN WOMEN’S MISSIONARY LEAGUE

The Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML), with a membership of over 250,000, is the official women’s organization of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. The LWML focuses on affirming each woman in her relationship with Christ to enable her to be in ministry among the people of the world. Website: www.lwml.org.

ST. STEVEN’S KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS – 4TH DEGREE ASSEMBLY

Assembly 2356 is the public showpiece of the Knights in Sun Lakes. The primary purpose of the 4th degree is to promote patriotism through a variety of activities. Our current focus is on disabled and homeless veterans. A year-long effort is planned to provide material and volunteers to meet the needs of this important group. In addition, the Fourth Degree Color Guard is made up of Sir Knights who voluntarily dress in full regalia to attend funerals, parades and patriotic gatherings.

SUN LAKES CHAPEL/CHAPEL HOUSE

This facility is to be used for worship services, funerals, memorials, weddings, and functions associated with these activities as well as other functions for congregations, the majority of whom live in Sun Lakes, SunBird, or Springfield Retirement communities.

SUN LAKES COMMUNITY CHURCH

Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. at Sun Lakes Chapel (across from Sun Lakes Country Club)

Office:  25811 S. Country Club Dr.

Bible Study Schedule and other information at: www.sunlakescommunitychurch.org

SUN LAKES JEWISH CONGREGATION

Sun Lakes outstanding reform congregation. Services held the second Friday of the month in the Sun Lakes Chapel at 7:00 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Irwin Wiener and Cantor Ronda Polesky. Choir conducted by Lana Oyer.

SUN LAKES LUTHERAN CHURCH

Sun Lakes Lutheran is a mission of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. We are the church that shares a living, daring confidence in God’s grace.  Liberated by our faith, we embrace you as a whole person–questions, complexities and all. Join us each Sunday morning at 8:00 a.m. in the Sun Lakes Chapel as we do God’s work in Christ’s name for the life of the world.

SUN LAKES UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

Sun Lakes United Church of Christ is an open & affirming Christ centered congregation, welcoming all, wherever you are on life’s journey; for the purpose of growing in faith through worship, music, study, service and fellowship. Service at 11:15 a.m. in the Sun Lakes Chapel, Fellowship following. Website:  www.chandler-sunlakesucc.org.

SUN LAKES UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

At Sun Lakes UMC, we offer quality worship services, bible study classes, and an 80-member choir. We also have open-to-the-public classes, workshops and other activities in our large education facility, to promote our mission of “learning and growing together in faith.” Sunday worship service is at 9:00 am. Website: www.sunlakesumc.org.

UNITY CHURCH OF SUN LAKES

Unity Church of Sun Lakes meets at 9:30 Sunday morning, September through June, in the Arts and Crafts room in Sun Lakes Country Club. Unity is New Thought Christianity: positive, practical and progressive. Our vision is a world of oneness where all people are free to express their divine potential. Visit website for more information: unityofsunlakes.org.

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Service Organizations

AL-ANON SUPPORT GROUP

Al-Anon is a group that offers help and support for families and friends of alcoholics. There are no dues for membership. Al-Anon supports itself through its own voluntary contributions.

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN (AAUW)

For more than 130 years, the American Association of University of Women (AAUW) has worked as a nationwide community to break through barriers for women and girls. Today more than 100,000 members, donors, and college/university partners across the country come together to support AAUW’s mission of advancing equity through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research.  Close to $4 million is awarded each year in graduate fellowships, grants, campus project support and undergraduate scholarships.  The Southeast Valley (AZ) Branch was formed in 1989 and has more than 100 active members. Branch activities include community action in education and literacy, fundraising for fellowships and local scholarships, advocacy for laws and policies that affect women and girls in their everyday lives, and multiple interest groups. If you hold an associate or equivalent, baccalaureate or higher degree from a regionally accredited college or university, you can become a member of AAUW. Meetings are held the third Monday of the month, October through April at 5:00 p.m. Website: southeastvalley-az.aauw.net.

BETA SIGMA PHI – PRECEPTOR GAMMA GAMMA CHAPTER

Beta Sigma Phi is an international women’s fellowship network. It also provides educational programs to its members and service to others, and includes women of all ages, interests, educational, and economic backgrounds. This is the largest organization of its kind in the world.

CAREGIVER DISCUSSION GROUP

Weekly support meeting on Monday from 1-3 p.m. at Risen Savior Lutheran Church where partners, family, and friends who care for an older adult are offered a safe and supportive environment to share experiences, resources, and ideas.

CHANDLER REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER and MERCY GILBERT MEDICAL CENTER

Benefits of Volunteering – Make new friends and meet new people, develop new skills and interests, make a difference in someone’s life, enjoy the satisfaction that comes from helping others, and inclusion in hospital events.

DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION (DAR) – GILA BUTTE CHAPTER

Volunteers dedicated to historic preservation, education and patriotism. Supporting Military, vets, first responders, educators, students, civic leaders. Actively seeking women over 18, regardless of race, religion or ethnic background, who prove lineal bloodline descent from a Patriot of the Revolution.

DESERT NAVY

The Desert is an organization that meets on the third Friday of the month at the SunBird Community Center during the months of September through May. Meetings start at 11:00 a.m. in the Lakeview Room at that facility, and usually are over within an hour. Veterans that served in the Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Merchant Marines are always welcome. When possible, guest speakers are a part of the program with an assortment of topics of interest to all and are a main part of our meetings. Our thoughts and prayers always go out to all those serving in the military, and provide whatever support we can provide in any way we can to those in need for whatever reason. It’s a great opportunity to meet up with friends, old and new, that have similar backgrounds and many stories to share. Please contact Rich below. He would be happy to talk to you regarding club membership and current activities.

EAST VALLEY MARINE CORPS LEAGUE DETACHMENT 1296

The East Valley Marines, Detachment 1296 of the Marine Corps League, is a non-profit, service organization made up of honorably discharged U.S. Marines, FMF Corpsmen, FMF Chaplains, and Associate members that band together to promote the ideals of our country and to follow the United States Marine Corps’ tradition of ‘Marines Helping Veterans’ and their families. Website:  www.eastvalleymarines.org.

HADASSAH – SHALOM

Membership in Hadassah, a women’s Jewish organization that funds the Hadassah Medical Organization in Israel and community-based programs in America and throughout the world, is open to all interested individuals. Call for directions to the meetings and further information about the Shalom Chapter of Hadassah.

JEWISH WAR VETERANS COPPER STATE POST 619

The oldest veterans’ chartered organization in the United States meets the third Sunday of every month, September through June, with breakfast and a speaker. Membership is open to veterans and non-veterans, men and women. Money raised helps veterans and veteran facilities.

KOREAN WAR VETERANS

“Let Us Not Forget” – The Korean War Veterans are an organization dedicated to bond together in its efforts among veterans of the Korean War. Its main agenda is to support and provide assistance to all homeless and hospitalized veterans that we can reach out to. All veterans and guests are welcome. Locally, our club meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month running from September through June at the SunBird Community Center. Meetings start at 10:30 a.m. and are held on the main level of the Community Center in the Lakeview Room. In addition to some fund raising activities that the club participates in, we also have available for use for those in need an assortment of items that are available when an unexpected emergency is experienced. Usually a phone call may help you obtain some much need items such as crutches, wheelchairs, and at times, motorized scooters are a part of the inventory. Please contact below for additional information pertaining to the club’s activities.

MILITARY ORDER OF THE PURPLE HEART

We are a military service organization whose members have been wounded in combat in the defense of our country.

NEIGHBORS WHO CARE, INC.

Neighbors Who Care is a non-profit organization whose motto is “Senior Independence through Volunteer Service.” Founded in 1995, we assist homebound seniors through services provided by community volunteers. Call us to learn about services or to volunteer, or visit our web page: neighborswhocare.com.

ROTARY CLUB OF SUN LAKES

Rotarians provide service at the local, national and international level.  Local efforts focus on programs for Chandler Unified School District and organizations such as Neighbors Who Care. At the national and international levels, the emphasis is upon health care, literacy, and disaster relief. The 80+ member Sun Lakes Rotary Club meets weekly on Tuesdays, alternating between mornings and afternoons in the Saguaro Room at Cottonwood. For details, view our website at www.sunlakesrotary.com.

SUN LAKES BREAKFAST LIONS CLUB

The Sun Lakes Breakfast Lions Club/Foundation provides an opportunity for members to help with local, state and national service projects. Special attention is with Ege Glass Collection, sorting & reading.

SUN LAKES LIONS CLUB

The Lions’ motto is “We Serve.” As members of the World’s Largest Service Organization, Lions clubs International has 1.4 million men and women active in more than 46 thousand clubs in over 200 countries. Join us for “fun” in service. We meet 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month in the Arizona Room at Sun Lakes Country Club.

SUN LAKES WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION

The social and philanthropic organization has donated over 1 million dollars back to the Sun Lakes Community. All women residents of Sun Lakes (owners and renters) are welcome. Meets every Monday morning in the SLCC Arts & Crafts Room.

THE PERFECT PLACE

The Perfect Place is a non-profit daycare that provides a safe, structured environment for socialization and activities for seniors, enabling their caregiver an opportunity for respite.

VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS POST 8053

VFW Post 8053 and its Ladies Auxiliary’s mission is to augment the unmet needs of our active duty military service members, veterans and their families. Visit our website at www.sunlakesvfw.org.

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Social Organizations

AFRICAN AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF SUN LAKES

We hold a general meeting four times each year and sponsor 3-4 social events each year that bring us together socially and culturally for fun, friendship and fellowship. For further information about our group, contact information below.

CHEERS

A singles group that offers trips, card games, socials, fine dining, wine tasting and various other activities for social-minded singles.

FUN LAKERS CLUB

Social club designed to have fun meeting other Sun Lakes residents and participating in a variety of social events. Check out our website at www.Funlakers.org.

NATIONAL RED HAT SOCIETY CHAPEAUX ROUGE #10554

A chapter of the International Red Hat Society. We meet the second Saturday of the month for brunch and sometime additional activities. We also support other chapters throughout the Valley by attending their functions. Co-chair of AZ RH state convention in March held in Cottonwood yearly.

P.E.O.

For visiting, newly arrived, or resident P.E.O.’s, there is a coffee held the second Wednesday of February, and a Christmas Luncheon held in December.

PULASKI CLUB, INC.

The Pulaski Club, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation. Established in 1939 to represent, promote, and share our rich Polish heritage with our neighbors. As American citizens of Polish descent, we dedicate ourselves to the task of uniting all Poles for their social, fraternal, and mutual benefit. We have monthly dinners, dances, and live bands. For more information please visit: www.pulaskiclubaz.org.

REIKI CIRCLE

Reiki Circle meets in Cottonwood Center Ladies’ Card Room, A-2 at 9:30 a.m. every Tuesday. You are welcome to experience laying-on-of-hands healing, offered by people trained in the art of Reiki healing.

SUN LAKES DEMOCRATIC CLUB

Meetings are the second Monday every month in the Navajo Room, Sun Lakes Country Club, 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Meetings offer a speaker, stimulating discussion, and refreshments. Everyone is welcome.  Social time 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

SUN LAKES JEWISH CONGREGATION MEN’S CLUB

This is a social club for men who are members of the Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation. We have monthly meetings with interesting guest speakers, annual dinners, golf tournament and charitable activities. Visit: www.sunlakesjewishcongregation.org/mensclub/mensclub.html.

SUN LAKES JEWISH CONGREGATION SISTERHOOD

We have meetings the third Thursday of the month. We host events for the Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation. We also host a card party in February, and all proceeds go to local charities.

SUN LAKES REPUBLICAN CLUB

Lively monthly meetings offer community members opportunities to learn more about candidates, issues, voter initiatives, and Arizona politics. See our website: www.slgop.org for calendar, pictures, and details.

SUN LAKES WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION

The social and philanthropic organization has donated over 1 million dollars back to the Sun Lakes Community. All women residents of Sun Lakes (owners and renters) are welcome. Meets every Monday morning in the SLCC Arts & Crafts Room. For more information visit us at www.SLWomens.org.

WOMEN’S CONNECTION

We meet on Thursday mornings once a month, October through May. Watch the Splash for exact date and program. We have breakfast, special features, music, and dynamic speakers who “connect” with women to help find meaning and purpose in life. Non-denominational. No membership or dues. All women are invited. Reservations are required. We have been meeting in Sun Lakes since 1980.

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Sports

COTTONWOOD TENNIS CLUB

This active and friendly club was established in 1982 to provide opportunities for residents of Cottonwood Palo Verde at Sun Lakes to participate in organized play, team play, tournament plan and social events with friends and neighbors with a common interest in tennis. Today, we have a diverse membership of over 250 players, over 50 which are volunteers. Visit our website below for more information. Website: www.cottonwoodtennisclub.com.

IRONOAKS BREAKERS POOL LEAGUE

Billiards 8 & 9 Ball league membership is restricted to HOA #3 residents.  Members play on 4 tables in any or all of the yearly tournaments in 8 & 9 Ball. League Championships in November and mid-year tournament in April. Visit website at: www.iobreakers.com.

LUCKY SHOT POOL CLUB

This club was organized in 1995 for Sun Lakes homeowners interested in playing pool. We conduct three annual 8-Ball and 9-Ball pool tournaments at Cottonwood Palo Verde in the Cottonwood Clubhouse.

PRIME TIMERS BOWLING LEAGUE

We bowl on Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. at McRay Lanes in Chandler.

SUN LAKES FLY FISHING

The club’s philosophy is to bring residents together that want to Fly Fish, no red tape, no politics, “Catch & Release,” just wet your lines and go hunting. Be experienced or new to Fly Fishing, you’re welcome to our club.

SUN LAKES HIKING CLUB

The Sun Lakes Hiking Club began in 1985. By 1987 the group was official with by-laws, prescheduled weekly hikes, designated hike leaders, and rules designed to make group hiking fun, challenging, and safe. Group hikes are scheduled from November through April. Hikers meet up at Cottonwood Country Club parking lot at 7:45 am from November through February. In March and April, hikers assemble at 6:45 am. Members carpool to the hikes and share expenses based on distance to the trailhead. Detailed descriptions of hikes are on this website and reviewed at our first Friday monthly meetings. Website at www.meetup.com/sun-lakes-hiking-club.

SUN LAKES SENIOR SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION

Recreational and competitive league play for all skill levels, including a Ladies’ team. See www.sunlakessoftball.com for more information.

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Swim & Fitness

BETTER BALANCE

Exercises for core strength, flexibility & stretching, balance, muscular strength and cardio & endurance.  Drop-in any class in Sun Lakes to improve your body strength and posture and reduce the fear of falling!

IRONOAKS WATER VOLLEYBALL

This program is available to all homeowners. The lap pool is used Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m.- 1 p.m.

TAI CHI – QIGONG CLASSES

Easy and gentle Tai Chi – Qigong classes are held on various days throughout Sun Lakes. All ages and abilities, seated or standing, beginner and intermediate levels. Relax your mind and body with flowing movements.

WATER BELLES – COTTONWOOD

Come and join us for aerobic, stretching, and toning for upper and lower body for all levels. Scheduled times are Monday through Saturday at 7:00 a.m. (May-Oct) and 8:00 a.m.(Nov-Apr).

WEIGHT LOSS SUPPORT – GOLDEN GOALIES

Support group to help anyone lose or maintain his or her weight. Contact below for more information.

YOGA – HATHA #2

Hatha Yoga involves mild stretching exercises with balancing and strengthening exercises. It’s suitable for all ages and abilities, and geared toward active older adults.

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Writing

WRITERS’ GROUP

The group meets weekly. Members read their original prose or poetry to others and have fun writing. Everyone is invited every Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. at Cottonwood A-8.

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