Special Interest Groups

HOOK & NEEDLE CLUB

If you enjoy cross stitch, knitting or crocheting with like-minded needlecrafters, then join this group! Experienced leaders will be available for assistance if you would like to learn one of these crafting techniques! Participants should bring their own supplies. 

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Tuesdays1:00pmEssig CenterFREE


BOOK TO SCREEN BOOK CLUB

Join our Book-to-Screen Club — where books meet movies! Read the book, watch the film, and chat about how the story comes to life on screen. All readers and movie lover's welcome. Call 540-483-9238 for monthly book titles.

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Movie shown the last Friday of the month
Movie Starts at 11:00amEssig CenterFREE


FARKLE

Come learn to play the fun and easy game of Farkle. It is a dice game that can be enjoyed by two or more people. If you are looking to join a group, give us a call at 540-483-9238 and we will connect you with others who play each week. 

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Thursdays1:00pm - 2:00pmEssig CenterFREE


MAHJONG

Learn to play a tile game called Mahjong. Groups of four play at a one time. If you are looking to join a group, give us a call at 540-483-9238 and we will connect you with others who play each week.

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2nd & 4th Friday of the month1:00pm - 4:00pmEssig CenterFREE


BRIDGE

This group of bridge players play each week. If you know how to play bridge and are looking to join a group, give us a call at 540-483-9238 and we will connect you with other weekly players.

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Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays9:00am - 1:00pmEssig CenterFREE


GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

Please join us on Wednesdays as we will provide a safe space for clients to talk about their deceased loved one and help you maintain a connection to the person you have lost. Carilion Clinic therapists will lead and conduct group interactions. 

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Wednesdays3:00pm Essig CenterFREE


COMMUNITY POTLUCK LUNCH

Celebrate community and connection at our Senior Potluck Lunch! Bring a favorite dish to share and enjoy conversation, laughter, and a sense of togetherness. Whether it’s a family recipe or a store-bought treat, all contributions are appreciated!

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January 16, 2026 
February 20, 2026
March 20, 2026 
 April 17, 2026


11:00am - NoonEssig CenterFREE


SENIOR CAFE

If you are over 60 years of age and live in Franklin County, make the Senior Café part of your weekly routine! Each week, seniors gather to enjoy a cup of coffee, lunch, and plenty of good conversation. Come as you are — stay for the friendship. Thanks to STEP Inc. for partnering with us and offering this to our senior community.

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Thursdays11:00am - 1:00pmEssig CenterFREE


VETERANS COFFEE HOUR

Join Veterans from a variety of eras and branches for coffee and camaraderie.  This program is part of the We Honor Veterans program sponsored by Carilion Clinic Hospice of Franklin County and in partnership with the Veterans Administration and NHPCO. 

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January 30, February 27, March 27 & April 24, 20269:00amEssig CenterFREE


FRANKLIN COUNTY CHAPTER AARP #508

Want to learn about the benefits of an AARP membership and information regarding potential AARP discounts? Bring a covered dish to share with other AARP members.

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January 14, 2026
February 11, 2026
March 11, 2026
 April 8, 2026
11:00am Essig CenterFREE