By Beth Barhydt
The Lapham Community Center, a cornerstone of New Canaan life, is busier than ever, and Director Aggie Aspinwall couldn’t be more excited. In a place that has long been a hub for residents, especially seniors, Aspinwall reports that the Center is not just bouncing back from the quiet days of the pandemic—it’s thriving. “We are probably beating pre-COVID numbers,” she said, adding that the fall programs are filling up fast. “Some of them are sold out already,” she said. “We’ll accommodate as many as we can, try and squeeze people in if we can.”
If you haven’t been to the Lapham Center lately, now’s the time. They’ve extended their hours, added night programming, and even offer Saturday events. “I’ve never been to anything here I did not enjoy,” noted a member. It’s no surprise that dinner and a movie, sip-and-paint nights, and the always-popular murder mystery dinners are drawing big crowds. “Dinner and a movie is always a winner,” Aggie confirmed. “And with the state grant, things are free, so everyone loves those.” It’s easy to understand why these events are such a hit. “We could have doubled the numbers for sip and paint,” she said. “People love it. A lot of them come back.”
Take, for instance, the murder mystery dinner—an event that’s become a staple at the Lapham Center. Residents arrive in costume, ready to play detectives in a night of fun and intrigue. “Those who come absolutely love it,” Aspinwall said, grinning as she recounted the enthusiasm. “One couple came in a tux and a full-length gown. It was like the ‘20s!” The details matter, too. From clever dishes like “Vendetta Antipasta” and “Revenge Ravioli” to “Deadly Delightful Lemon Squares,” the event brings a unique energy that people talk about for weeks after.
But it’s more than just games and themed dinners. The Lapham Center is about connection, especially for seniors who might be feeling isolated. “We’d be lost without Lapham. It fills our days,” said one member.
The state grant that supports many of these events is geared toward combating loneliness, a problem that can sometimes be hidden in New Canaan’s friendly but close-knit circles. “People know their people,” Aspinwall explained, “but they’re a little afraid to reach out of their comfort zone. It’s sort of a dinner party community. You go out with your friends, the ones you’ve had for years, but sometimes, for a lot of different reasons, that changes.”
That’s where Lapham’s programming really shines. Whether it’s Canasta, Italian classes, or iPhone editing workshops, people are branching out, meeting new friends, and expanding their social circles.
And it’s not just for the older crowd. The Lapham Center is attracting younger groups as well, with more and more 60-year-olds attending classes and events. “The baby boomers are big,” Aspinwall said. “It’s a big group. Our average age has come down.” Many of these younger attendees are learning about the Center through activities like Bridge and Mah Jongg, then discovering even more opportunities, like art classes and travel workshops. “Once they get here, they realize how great it is,” she explained. “They make it a part of their schedule.”
The variety of classes is impressive. From language classes to art, from Medicare workshops to health and wellness events, there’s something for everyone. And the Center is just getting started. “With the state grant, we can really try new programs and see if they’re successful,” Aggie said.
“You’re a part of my life,” remarked one member. “This is my second home,” said another.
