David and Judy Huerta moved from the suburbs of Chicago, Ill., to Archuleta County in 2006.
David, a retired electrical engineer and Army veteran, had always dreamed of living in the mountains. Judy, who was semi-retired at the time, wanted to stay active in the community and decided to volunteer with Archuleta Senior Inc.’s (ASI’s) Meals on Wheels program, inviting David to join her.
Not long after, Judy accepted a full-time job and ended her volunteer service, but David continued. Nineteen years later, when asked why he remained committed, David reflected, “Having elderly parents myself, I saw the problems and challenges the senior community faces, and I just wanted to help in some way.”
Over his 19 years as a volunteer, David shared many meaningful memories. He especially valued listening to the stories of World War II and Korean War veterans, their experiences of D-Day, bombing missions and the pride they felt serving their country.
David said he only wished he had more time to sit, listen and talk with these men and women.
David also spoke about the challenges he faced during his years of service.
“Weather was always the biggest challenge,” he said. “Having to drive one hour to the center in a blizzard was quite difficult, but I knew the elderly needed their meals, so I pushed through.”
When asked why he volunteered for so long, David explained, “I recognized the needs of the elderly, but, most of all, I found it very rewarding. It’s a job I love to do.”
When asked what he would miss the most, David shared, “I’ll miss seeing the people, talking with them, and I’ll miss the ASI staff and the volunteers I worked with. I’ll carry the entire experience with me forever.”
He ended our conversation by saying that the most painful day of his 19 years as a Meals on Wheels volunteer was the day he called the office to submit his resignation.
On behalf of the ASI Board and staff, we thank David for his many years of dedicated service. He made our organization better, and he will never be forgotten.
Holiday closure
ASI will be closed Feb. 16 for Presidents Day. No meals or programs will be offered that day.
Senior Conversations
The very popular Senior Conversations with local Bill Salmansohn takes place on Mondays from 1:15 to 2:15 p.m. at the Senior Center.
The exception in February is the rescheduling of the gathering from Feb. 16 to Feb. 20, still at 1:15 p.m., due to the holiday.
Salmonsohn brings to the conversations a variety of topics designed to stimulate discussions within a safe and comfortable environment as we explore our well-being and shared experiences.
This is a unique opportunity to connect with others in the Archuleta community, fostering sharing and friendships.
Snacks will be provided.
Afterward, hosted by Robin Williams, stay for a get-together created for those who wish to continue the conversation. This opportunity is typically from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., following Senior Conversations. The group occasionally reconvenes as an informal gathering at various local restaurants.
Stretching and mobility weekly class
Community members are invited to attend free weekly classes every Tuesday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Senior Center at 451 Hot Springs Blvd., in the back of the Ross Aragon Community Center.
The stretching and mobility classes for adults age 55 or better are designed to help build balance in the body through functional exercises that aim to improve mobility and flexibility.
Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of techniques that can help enhance overall movement efficiency.
Though not necessary, a mat is recommended for this class.
The program is instructed by local ballet dance instructor Dee Pitchon, who will provide modifications to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the exercises.
Mahjong
Mahjong is a 19th century Chinese tile-based game that is commonly played with four players. Each player receives 13 tiles with a goal to make matching sets and pairs (like poker). To win, a player must form four sets and one pair.
Come to the Senior Center to learn or play every Tuesday at 1:15 p.m.
Bridge
The game of bridge is held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 1:15 p.m.
Bridge is a four-player card game with partners sitting opposite each other around a table. It is a trick-taking card game using a standard 52-card deck. Come alone or bring a partner.
Hand and foot card game
Whether you are new to hand and foot or interested in learning, please join us most Tuesdays at 1:15 p.m. at the Senior Center.
This card game involves four rounds, with the final round reached sometime between two and three hours later. Plan to stay and meet some new friends or catch up with those you have missed.
No experience is necessary, so come willing to learn.
Emotional freedom
On the second Thursday of the month, Feb. 12, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., join the “Tappers,” who practice a self-regulation technique to relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression, insomnia and more.
Everything you need to get started is included in this fun, engaging, supportive class taught by Judith Newman, LPC.
Mindful drawing
Mindful drawing is an easy-to-learn, relaxing and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Join our friendly instructor, Roberta Strickland.
Classes are every Wednesday at 1:15 p.m. in the Senior Center. There is no class on Wednesday, Nov. 26.
This activity is open to all ages. Help us create an intergenerational community. For those under 18 and/or with disabilities, you are welcome to join us, but we kindly ask you to please bring an adult chaperone with you.
Mexican train dominoes
Mexican train dominoes meets on Wednesdays at 1:15 p.m. at the Senior Center.
Ruby’s Writers Guild
The Ruby’s Writers Guild now meets on Thursdays from 8:45 to 10:30 a.m. The Guild is an informal group that meets to support writers of all genres and experiences. It supports writers through friendly critique, resources, discussion, and literary and cultural activities. Bring your secret idea drafts or completed manuscripts. Come join the group.
Tai chi chih
Tai chi classes are on Thursdays from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. in the Senior Center.
Tai chi chih is not a martial art, but rather a tool for self-healing. Softness, flow and effortlessness are the guiding principles in this meditative practice. The 19 movements and one pose are designed to stimulate, circulate and balance the vital energy that is inherent in all of us.
Bingo
Join us for bingo on Feb. 13 and Feb. 27.
Participation is free, and all we ask is you bring yourself and a friend for an hour of joyful fellowship. We will provide prizes for all winners, and snacks will also be provided.
No RSVP is required; just show up.
All ages are welcome, but we ask those 18 and younger to come with an adult chaperone. Seats are first come, first served.
Scrapbooking and crafters club
The Pagosa Springs Scrapbooking and Crafters Club continues to hold monthly meetings the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Community Center, 451 Hot Springs Blvd., within the dining hall in the Senior Center.
This creative tradition has been happening since 2005, and we invite all creative individuals to come and share ideas, connect with new and old friends, learn/share creative techniques, share supplies and indulge in a potluck lunch together. Bring your scrapbooking projects — or any crafting project that you may want to work on with the group.
Help us create an intergenerational community. Those ages 18 and older are welcome. For those youth age 17 and younger, we kindly request an adult chaperone accompany them.
If you would like to be added to the mailing list, please send your request to copenhavercreative@gmail.com and you will receive notification each month of the upcoming meeting, along with handy tips and tricks for scrapbooking and more.
Share lunch Monday through Friday
Join local elders, their friends, family and community at the Community Cafe, also known as the Silver Fox’s Den, in person for delicious meals Mondays through Fridays at the Community Center between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Grab ‘N’ Go pickup via our convenient portico is also available all week.
To reserve your meal for the day, please make your reservation via text or phone call to (970) 264-2167 by 8:45 a.m. weekdays. Please say whether it is dine-in or Grab ‘N’ Go.
Our dining hall is open to all ages and welcomes you all with kindness and warmth. We provide hot/cold meals for anyone in the community interested in a nutritious and delicious meal. For those 60 or older we request a suggested donation of $6, but no one will be turned away. There is a $10.50 charge for guests under the age of 60.
Meals include a main course, side dish, fruit/dessert, garden salad plus beverage.
Community Cafe menu
Call or text (970) 264-2167 before 8:45 a.m. Please note that occasionally the menu must be changed on short notice.
Thursday, Feb. 12 — Stuffed Portabella mushroom cap, naan bread, red pepper hummus, garden salad, fruit, carrot cake and milk.
Friday, Feb. 13 — Hawaiian beef with peppers, coconut rice, broccoli and cauliflower, garden salad, fruit, cottage cheese, and milk.
Monday, Feb. 16 — Closed for Presidents Day.
Tuesday, Feb. 17 — Beef stuffed bell peppers, Parmesan zucchini, focaccia bread, garden salad, fruit, dessert bar and milk.
Wednesday, Feb. 18 — Chipotle-lime crusted baked tilapia, brown rice, garden salad, fruit salad, yogurt and milk.
Thursday, Feb. 19 — Grilled turkey, Swiss cheese, tomato sandwich; sweet potato fries; garden salad; fruit; muffin; and milk.
Friday, Feb. 20 — Vegetable lasagna, garlic bread, garden salad, fruit, chocolate cake and milk.
Meals on Wheels
We deliver fresh Meals on Wheels five days a week (and provide frozen Meals on Wheels for weekends) to homebound Archuleta County residents. The meals are delivered by our wonderful volunteers. Call or text us at (970) 264-2167 for how to sign up for the program.
Text reservations
Don’t forget that we offer a convenient texting service for you to communicate with us. Text us at (970) 264-2167. When texting, please include your name, phone number and the days you want a meal. If you are canceling a reservation, please include your name, phone number and the days you want to cancel.
Mountain Express Transit senior paratransit services
Seniors over the age of 60 can be verified to receive services through discounted paratransit services, free bus rides and pick up at your home to bring you to the Senior Center for lunch. To become eligible, there is a form to complete.
Older adults needing a ride to a local food pantry can contact the Mountain Express Transit (MET) to schedule a ride with its paratransit service.
Call the Archuleta County MET at (970) 264-2250 for information.
Medicare assistance by appointment
For anyone who needs help enrolling and navigating Medicare plans, the San Juan Basin Area Agency on Aging helps with parts A, B and D. They can also help you with fraud concerns and troubleshooting any billing issues you may be having. By appointment only. Please call the Medicare line at (970) 403-6759 for an appointment and where to meet.
Board vacancies
The ASI Board of Directors has positions open. Terms are three years with an option to renew for an additional term.
Potential candidates should be at least 21 years of age or older and must have a passion for adult and aging services.
Please stop by our offices at 451 Hot Springs Blvd. to pick up an application or call (970) 264-2167 for more information.
For more information about ASI, please visit www.psseniors.org.
Support the Senior Center
New, starting in 2026, small donations can be deducted without itemizing your tax return. It is the Permanent Universal Charitable Deduction.
Here’s what this means: For tax years beginning after Dec. 31, 2025, those who do not itemize can deduct up to $1,000 for individual tax filing and $2,000 for married couples filing jointly.
The goal of this provision is to recognize and encourage charitable giving across all income levels, potentially boosting donations from middle-income households who may not itemize their deductions. This change has the potential to significantly impact charitable giving patterns by incentivizing a broader base of donors.
You may mail your donation to ASI, P.O. Box 3444, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147, or please visit our website: www.psseniors.org/ (donation button).
Donation checks can be written to: Archuleta Seniors Inc.
Another way to donate: Are you 70.5 years old or better? Do you have an IRA from which you need to take a distribution? Did you know you can make charitable donations directly from your IRA without paying taxes on the distribution, up to $100,000 per year? The donation from the account would be payable to ASI and sent to P.O. Box 344, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147. This gift option is called the IRA charitable rollover or qualified charitable distribution.
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