September 2025 Update
My favorite season of sweatshirts and sweaters!
As I mentioned in last month’s update, we have confirmed two dates for the Member Town Hall where we’ll share building improvement plans and highlight what’s coming in 2026:
- Wednesday, October 8 at 2:00 p.m. – Main Campus
- Thursday, October 9 at 4:00 p.m. – East Campus
We truly value your feedback. While we may not always agree, we are committed to listening and appreciate the perspectives each of you bring. The main topic at these town halls will be the capital improvements identified for both campuses.
To expand communication, we encourage members who enjoy mobile tools to download the Gym Insight mobile app. With the app, you can manage your membership, read announcements, and view upcoming events. Don’t worry—the newsletter, flyers, and weekly emails will remain in place. The app is simply an additional, real-time way to stay connected as we add more features to programming.
This past month, we’ve had to make a few adjustments as our 2026 budget becomes clearer. Active Generations runs several programs—each funded differently—but all connected as part of our mission. Some programs, like nutrition, rely heavily on federal and state reimbursement. This is also the program many of you experience directly through congregate dining and Meals on Wheels.
While our 2026 funding allocation is not yet finalized, we do know it will not fully meet the growing demand for senior nutrition—especially Meals on Wheels. Our staff remains committed to working as hard and creatively as possible to continue meeting the needs of our homebound neighbors.
One change you may have noticed at the Main Campus is updated coffee shop hours. It is now staffed from 8:00–10:30 a.m. (instead of 8:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.). After 10:30, baked goods will be available at the front desk. Wraps, salads, soups are always available at the front desk. This adjustment also allows us to redirect some staff time to support Meals on Wheels and congregate dining.
Both campuses will be closed on Monday, October 13 for a staff in-service day. This dedicated time allows our team to complete annual health and safety trainings, as well as focus on departmental planning and preparation for 2026. Thank you for your understanding and support as we plan for the year ahead!
Finally, a reminder: if you are an OLLI member, or are considering OLLI programming, remember you receive a discount on your OLLI membership as an Active Generations member. Stop by or call the front desk to receive your code!
— Betsy Schuster
President & CEO, Active Generations
August 2025 update
Fall Is Around the Corner!
First, thank you to everyone who stopped by the Main Campus Open House at the end of July! We had a fantastic turnout and lots of fun testing out the golf simulator for the first time. For those who attended, you now know my golf philosophy: there should only be one club in golf—a driver. Hit hard, then go home!
As we launch new amenities, I ask for your patience as we go through a bit of trial and error to determine what works best for scheduling and bookings. Our Membership Team will continue to share updates and help guide you through the process.
At the Main Campus, we’ve also begun updating furniture throughout the building. The current furniture makes it difficult to easily move pieces between rooms to meet the different needs of our groups. The new furniture will give us more flexibility to better support our growing programs and memberships.
Looking ahead, our team is starting to develop plans for 2026—not just program plans, but also capital improvements. We’re still waiting on some cost projections for a few items, and once we have those in hand, we’ll schedule a Town Hall in late September or early October to share ideas and get your feedback. At the time of this newsletter printing, we’re holding off on confirming a date to ensure we have visuals to be able to present—especially regarding what a Main Campus remodel and Eastside Campus expansion could look like.
Lastly, I’m excited to announce a new program being developed in collaboration with our Adult Day and Caregiver Services teams and the South Dakota Department of Health. We already have a fantastic, free program to support caregivers of aging loved ones, and beginning in August, we’ll also be offering support programming for those caring for someone going through a cancer diagnosis. If this is something that could support you or someone you know, please stop by the front desk—we’d be happy to connect you with our Caregiver Support Team.
Thank you for being part of the Active Generations community. Your energy, ideas, and involvement help us grow stronger together—no matter the season. We’re excited about what’s ahead and grateful to be on this journey with you.
— Betsy Schuster
President & CEO, Active Generations
July 2025 update
Summer is moving quickly!
As I reflect on last month’s update, I realize how many exciting things are continuing to move forward at Active Generations. Over the past year, I’ve heard comments from members that “everything is changing.” And I understand—that can feel overwhelming at times.
Change, as we all know, is experienced differently depending on your perspective. What I’ve started to realize is that much of what we’re doing isn’t just change—it’s evolution. We’re evolving to better meet the needs of our members today, while preparing for what tomorrow may bring. Nonprofits like ours must continually adjust to the changing landscape of member and program needs and funding realities. Your feedback, support, and patience have been incredibly valuable throughout this process. Thank you for being on the journey with us!
Upcoming Open House – Stop In!
If you’re reading this before July 29, please join us at the Main Campus from 4–6 PM for an open house! You’ll be able to check out:
- Our beautiful new library space
- The renovated salon
- And our brand-new golf simulator—a fun way to stay active and social year-round!
East Side Expansion Exploration
As I mentioned in last month’s update, we continue to explore the possibility of adding more space at the East Side Campus—not just for pickleball, but for other growing activities as well. We’re still in the early exploration phase, asking questions like:
- What do we really need?
- What would it cost?
- What funding options exist to help us meet growing demand?
We hope to have more answers to share in the coming months!
Main Campus Door Replacement
We’re also planning to replace the main sliding doors before winter. The current doors no longer seal properly (and I’d prefer we only shovel snow outside the building, not inside!). These doors are original, and parts are no longer available when they break. We don’t have an exact timeline yet, but we appreciate your patience during this needed update.
Sweet News – Sugar Cookies Are Coming!
We’re adding something new and fun—frosted sugar cookies! I was lucky enough to be a taste-tester, and I can confirm they are delicious! Even better, we’ll be able to customize them with pictures—perfect for special events, celebrations, or just a fun treat.
As always, thank you for being a valued member of the Active Generations family. We are grateful for your continued support and involvement—and we can’t wait to see you soon!
— Betsy Schuster
President & CEO, Active Generations
june 2025 update
Summer Is Here!
Like last month’s update, we continue pushing forward with many exciting additions!
If you haven’t visited one of our campuses recently, we encourage you to stop by and enjoy an activity or two — you’ll be glad you did!
Main Campus Open House
We’re thrilled to announce that improvements at our Main Campus are nearly complete! To celebrate, we’re hosting a special Open House:
Tuesday, July 29th, 2025
4:00–6:00 PM
Main Campus on 46th Street
Join us as we celebrate the newly renovated Library and Salon and welcome the addition of our golf simulator and shuffleboard! We’re finalizing scheduling procedures to ensure fair and accessible use of the simulator for all.
After the open house, stay and enjoy our live band performance — part of our regular Tuesday night dances starting at 6:30 PM. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a summer evening!
New Ceili Cottage & Caregiving Space: “The Village”
We’re proud to share a major milestone in our Adult Day and Caregiving Services. In December 2023, Active Generations received a state grant to support the expansion of our cherished Ceili Cottage, which has served participants for over 13 years.
While filled with love and memories, our current space has just one bathroom and limited room — making it challenging to meet updated regulatory requirements and growing demand. We’ve also seen a rise in caregiver support needs, Memory Cafés, and continued growth in the Men’s Group at our East Campus.
After careful exploration, we’ve secured a 5,000-square-foot space in Village Square on East 26th Street. This new location — affectionately named The Village — will include three distinct entrances, creating warm, welcoming, home-like areas for Ceili Cottage, the Men’s Group, and caregiving services. Renovations are underway, with an expected move in around November.
The state grant covers about 65% of renovation costs. We’re actively seeking additional support to bring meaningful touches to life — like a cozy fireplace, an outdoor patio, and a dedicated caregiver support area. If you or your family are interested in contributing to this special project, we would be honored to connect with you.
Pickleball Growth & Vision
On June 3, we hosted a Member Town Hall to discuss the future of pickleball at Active Generations. With more than 60 members attending, it was a great dialogue.
As many of you know, pickleball continues to be one of the fastest-growing sports in the country — and our community reflects that same energy and growth. However, our current courts are nearing capacity.
We are in the very early stages of exploring an addition to our Eastside Campus, which could include 8–10 new indoor courts. This expansion would support member growth and offer new revenue opportunities to strengthen our organization. While pickleball is an important part of who we are, it’s not the only part — and we remain committed to balancing the needs of our full community.
We’re still gathering input, researching costs, and planning the next steps. Future Town Halls will rotate between Main and East campuses to keep everyone in the loop.
If you’re interested in learning more, please reach out to a staff member — we’d love to talk.
New! What’s for Dinner?
We’re excited to launch our new family-style meal program as part of our catering services! These ready-to-go meals are perfect when:
- The grandkids are coming over
- You want an easy, no-fuss dinner
- You’re stocking up for the week ahead
(My husband is already a big fan — our fridge is ready to go!)
Meals are available for purchase at both East and Main Campuses.
Here’s to a Fun, Active, and Delicious Summer!
As always, thank you for being part of the Active Generations family. We can’t wait to see you soon!
— Betsy Schuster
President & CEO, Active Generations
May 2025 update
Welcome to (Almost) Summer!
Though we’re still officially in spring, it certainly feels like summer as I write this on a hot early-May Day!
Each month, I reflect on what I shared the month before and continue to be amazed by the exciting things happening throughout Active Generations.
In mid-April and early May, we hosted two Expos—one at the Eastside location and one at the Main Campus. A huge kudos to our Membership team for organizing both events, and a big thank-you to the vendors who joined us to share valuable information with all of you.
By the time you read this, our Annual Book Sale will have taken place. And looking ahead to June, our newly renovated Library at the Main Campus is scheduled to be completed! Stay tuned for details on a celebration to check out the updated space.
Also this month, a group of members will be heading to the Twins Game on May 24! Maybe this will be the year we finally win a World Series—but until then, we’ll keep cheering with hope!
With the warm weather, be sure to check out our Hiking Club and Golf Club. And remember—we have weekly Tuesday night dances at the Main Campus! We’re also excited to launch a few new group classes: Tai Chi on Saturdays at East and both traditional and chair yoga for both locations.
We’re also pleased to share that the Main Campus is once again open until 8:00 PM, Monday through Friday. These extended hours will continue through the summer, and we’ll take a look at member usage toward the end of the season to help guide our plans going forward.
I challenge each of you to try something new this month—whether it’s joining a club, trying a class, or simply stopping by to see what’s going on!
We’re also continuing the transition to our new Membership Model. If you weren’t able to attend a Listening & Learning Session in April or May, please stop by and talk with our Member Services team to learn how the changes may affect you.
Thank you for being an essential part of our vibrant community. We appreciate your enthusiasm and commitment, and we look forward to sharing many more exciting moments together. Stay active and keep enjoying every moment!
— Betsy Schuster
President & CEO, Active Generations
april 2025 update
Progress is underway!
Each month as I sit down to write this note, I’m energized by all the exciting things happening across Active Generations—and this month is no different!
We recently wrapped up a fantastic first season of our Pickleball League at the Eastside Campus. Thank you to everyone who played, volunteered, or cheered at the games! We’re already planning for a summer league, so stay tuned. Our maintenance team is also scheduled to install the windscreens, so by the time you’re reading this, the outdoor courts might be ready for action!
Main Campus Renovations – May will be a busy month!
We have a few updates happening around the Main Campus, and we’re working hard to minimize any disruptions to your regular activities.
- Hair Salon: The salon will temporarily close starting April 30 for renovations. When it reopens in June (or even earlier), our stylists will be able to offer manicures and pedicures in addition to hair services! While the Sanford Foot Care Clinic will continue, we’ve heard from many of you about wanting more options for foot care, and we’re excited to make that happen.
- Library Refresh: Room 133 (formerly the computer room) will be transformed into our new Library and Learning Lounge. This refreshed space will include:
- Two public computers
- A learning area for small tech classes
- A four-chair reading nook
- A puzzle station
The current library space will become our Member Activity Office.
- Golf Simulator: We’re thrilled to be bringing a golf simulator to the Main Campus in May! We’re finalizing its location and rearranging some space to make it happen—more details coming soon.
New Membership Model Launches June 1
Earlier this month, we shared information about the new membership structure going into effect June 1. Posters with details are located around the building, and our membership team is available to answer any questions you may have. We truly listened to your feedback and used it to shape this updated model.
Thank you for your continued involvement and support. Whether you’re playing pickleball, working on a puzzle, or enjoying lunch with friends, it’s all part of what makes this community so special.
— Betsy Schuster
President & CEO, Active Generations
March 2025 Update
Hello, Spring!
I’ve been feeling so re-energized by the beautiful weather we’ve been enjoying lately, and I hope you have too! With a new season comes fresh energy, exciting changes, and, understandably, some questions. I wanted to take a moment to address a few common ones I’ve heard recently—because if one person is wondering, chances are others are too.
Welcome Desk at the Main Building
If you’ve been to the Main Campus recently, you may have noticed our new Welcome Desk, installed in early March. This change came directly from member feedback during our Strategic Planning process. Many of you shared that it sometimes felt like staff was tucked away behind closed doors, making it harder to connect with the Membership team. We took that to heart and set out to create a more accessible and welcoming space. While we’re still fine-tuning a few details, we’re excited about how this change will help us better serve you!
Funding & Community Support
Like all nonprofits, Active Generations relies on a mix of funding sources to provide our programs and keep our mission strong. We receive support through federal, state, and local grants, Sioux Empire United Way, membership dues, and program fees. In addition, we’re fortunate to have incredible corporate and individual donors who make enhancements like the ones you’re seeing possible.
For example:
- The new Welcome Desk was made possible thanks to support from Sammons Financial.
- A golf simulator, coming soon as a fun new programming option, was funded by Scheels and Sanford Health.
- The upcoming Library Renovation & Technology Upgrade is supported by a grant from the Bob and Rita Elmen Family Foundation.
These partnerships allow us to keep membership fees as low as possible while still making improvements that enhance your experience. We’re also working hard to bring back programs that were paused during the pandemic and to explore new opportunities based on your feedback.
Like many of you, we are navigating rising costs, and we remain committed to finding ways to support our programs beyond membership dues. We’re grateful for the incredible support of our community and will continue seeking additional funding partners to bring even more requested enhancements to our buildings and programming.
Membership Updates
As mentioned in our last update, we are adjusting the membership structure to reflect what we’ve learned since the rollout in August 2023. We encourage you to attend a Member Listening Session or book an appointment with a Member Specialist to find the best membership option for you. We want to ensure you’re getting the most out of your experience with us!
New Programming Coming Your Way!
After-Hours Access Pilot Program – We’re excited to begin piloting after-hours access in April! If you’re interested in being part of this pilot, stop by the front desk at Main or East to learn more.
Augustana University LifeLong Learning Partnership – Dr. Lucas Hamilton kicks off his engaging, TED Talk-style in-person series in April. You can sign up for one session or all of them! These sessions will be offered at both campuses and are free for members.
Active Generations Expo – Based on your feedback, we’re expanding the Expo this year! Last year, we hosted an Expo at East Campus, and many of you requested one at Main as well. So this year, we’re holding an Expo at both Main and East—be sure to check the dates!
Thank you for being part of Active Generations. Your feedback, enthusiasm, and support keep us moving forward. We can’t wait to see you at these exciting new programs!
— Betsy Schuster
President & CEO, Active Generations
February 2025 Update
Hello all!
Though we haven’t received much snow (yet), I hope you are making it through the winter season! I’m certainly looking forward to the arrival of spring.
On Thursday, February 6, we hosted an event where I shared an overview of our strategic plan and what’s ahead for 2025, based on feedback from members, staff, and the community.
For those who were unable to attend, I wanted to share some updates specifically related to Member Services:
Our Member Services program engages over 3,000 members across fitness programs and more than 50 social clubs at both our Main and East campuses. As announced in last month’s newsletter, we have launched a dedicated Member Services Team to enhance programming and engagement across both locations. Additionally, the new Welcome Desk at the Main Campus should be arriving soon!
Exciting Updates Coming in 2025!
- Pickleball League – Our first-ever league starts March 1 at the Eastside Campus and is open to both members and non-members. Due to publication timing, registration will be closing soon.
- After-Hours Access Pilot – In response to member demand for greater facility access, we will launch a pilot program in April for extended hours. More details on how to sign up will be shared in the month of March.
- Member Portal – Rolling out this spring, the portal will allow members to manage their membership, receive announcements, sign up for classes and activities, and more. For those who prefer in-person assistance, front desk support will still be available.
- Coming at the end of February and throughout March, we will be hosting Member Listening and Learning Sessions with our Member Services team to assist with questions about the new Membership Portal.
Additionally, we’ve heard your feedback regarding the current membership fee structure and understand that the 2023 changes caused some stress. We are currently reviewing potential modifications and will discuss these at the upcoming sessions. Our goal is to ensure that membership remains a great value, providing access to fitness programs, over 50 social clubs, lifelong learning opportunities, and a welcoming community that fosters connection and well-being.
Thanks to a generous grant from the Bob and Rita Elmen Family Foundation, our Main Campus library will be modernized, featuring a new electronic catalog, expanded space, and a multimedia area.
Additionally, we will introduce Member Technology Hours, where members can receive device assistance and participate in micro-tech classes, such as learning how to navigate Facebook Marketplace. We plan to launch this in April.
Lifelong Learning & New Partnerships
We’re expanding our lifelong learning programs through key community partnerships:
Augustana University – Dr. Lucas Hamilton will lead a 9-session series on aging and the mind, offered at both campuses. Registration opens in March!
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) – Active Generations members now receive a $30 discount on OLLI memberships. Stop by the front desk to get the discount code.
One of the key areas of feedback we received from members was about the long-term plan for the Main Campus. While the building has served us well for 30 years, its current layout presents challenges—our multi-use space is home to activities like pickleball, line dancing, and shuffleboard to name a few activities, but remains largely unavailable until after 1:00 PM due to Meals on Wheels packing and our dining room.
Our vision includes a designated dining area, like the East Campus, along with addressing major maintenance needs. To bring this vision to life, we will collaborate with architects to explore possible layouts and cost estimates for a renovation. Right now, we are only in the exploratory stages to understand the feasibility and costs before determining potential funding options.
With all these exciting updates, 2025 is shaping up to be a year full of connection, learning, and activity! Stay tuned for more details.
— Betsy Schuster
President & CEO, Active Generations
January 2025 update
Winter Joy!
We are well into 2025, and exciting changes are underway!
First, I’m crossing my fingers that by the time you receive this update in Lifetimes, the entrance closure for the Eastside Campus will be behind us. For those of you who were impacted by the temporary main entrance closure and alternate access point earlier this month, thank you for your patience and understanding. We look forward to the completion of all the development around the Eastside Campus!
Strategic Planning Updates
In February, we’ll be sharing the outcomes of the strategic planning process we worked on throughout fall and winter 2024. One of the recurring pieces of feedback we received was regarding the front entrance of the Main Campus. Based on your input, we’re making some changes in January and February to improve both safety and functionality. While we’re working to minimize disruptions, we appreciate your flexibility as these improvements take shape.
Here’s what to expect:
- Entryway Updates
The tile between the two sliding doors will be replaced with entryway carpet. Currently, the tile becomes slippery in wet weather, and rugs have created trip hazards. Fortunately, the replacement can be completed in a single Saturday. At the time of this writing, the date is still being finalized, but signage will be posted when it’s scheduled. On that Saturday, access to activities will be through the southwest door on the Adult Day Services side of the building.
- New Welcome Desk
A new welcome desk area will be installed near the main entrance. With this addition, we’ll have a staff member stationed at the desk during operational hours, alongside our volunteer greeters. This change aims to provide greater support for our volunteers and enhance customer service for members.
Membership Services Updates
As we continue to refine how we serve members at both locations, we’re aligning staff to better meet your needs. In January, we welcomed Luke Larson as our new Membership Manager for the Main Campus. Luke will be the go-to person for Membership Services at Main, while Chenise, our Member Services Director, will primarily be based at the Eastside Campus.
Additionally, Jenny, our Activities and Fitness Coordinator, will continue working between both campuses. From your feedback, we recognized the importance of having a dedicated team at Main to assist with Member Services, and we’re excited to move forward with this plan!
Thank you for your patience and support as we work through these exciting improvements. We’re grateful for the opportunity to serve you and are excited for all that’s ahead in 2025!
— Betsy Schuster
President & CEO, Active Generations