Programs

Although you don't need to be a member to participate, there are several advantages to becoming a member of GENCenter.

With the right support network, your senior years can be the best years you’ve ever had. From games built for socialization with friends to exercises tailored to stimulate the mind and body, GENCenter offers numerous outlets for enhancing your health and vitality.

On a monthly basis, the Center offers over 65 different programs – some reoccurring throughout the month, whereas others are more specialized. When it comes to events and activities, GENCenter will help you get the most out of your golden years!

Wellness

We offer lots of ways to keep your body and mind healthy. You can stay active and independent with our exercise classes and counseling, while expanding your horizons with creative and educational programs.

We offer a variety of exercise classes for every level of ability, including our Zumba Gold, Line Dance, Chair Yoga, Better Balance and Tai Chi. If you prefer information more than action, there are presentations every month that touch on topics related to healthy aging. And, to help you monitor your own well-being, periodic health screenings are also offered.

Looking to get in better shape this year?

Maybe you just want to shed a couple extra pounds?

Look no further than our fitness center.



With an annual membership, you’re allowed unlimited access to the facility during open hours. Take advantage of our equipment assembled to strengthen your upper back, chest, shoulders, biceps, triceps, and leg muscles. For those who have to move, we even have a treadmill and stationary bike for facilitating better cardio. And if you are recovering from an injury, athletic or otherwise, our NuStep cross trainer may be able to help you.

For more information, send us a message by clicking the button below!

Intergenerational Engagement

Since 2019, we have partnered with the Des Plaines Youth Commission to convene monthly intergenerational activities with representatives of older and younger generations. The goals of the program are to create and support/sustain an “age-friendly” community in Des Plaines and its neighboring communities; encourage lifelong learning initiatives, as all generations have a lot to both teach to and learn from each other; tackle issues around stereotyping and ageism; increase understanding and respect between older people and younger people; provide a mechanism to make new friends and combat social isolation; and organize various events and activities in order for participants to share experiences, enjoy each other’s company, and have fun. We welcome and encourage participation in helping us to grow this mutually beneficial program.

Stay trips, day trips, domestic and international travel offered through the Center, provide a variety of opportunities for seniors to go on a journey. Regardless of your interests, the Center has a day trip for you, including destinations pertaining to the theater, sports, culture, historic, ethnic, gaming, and more!

And for those interested in an extended adventure, we also partner with local tour companies to help members and non-members alike to truly satiate their travel bug.

To learn more, please contact our Trip Coordinator, Sally Thomphsen below: