Charlestown's Annual Club and Group Expo Brings Residents Together

In 2019, resident Betty Caldwell started the Photography Interest Group to connect with fellow photography enthusiasts at Charlestown, an Erickson Senior Living community in Catonsville, Md.

Today, the group has more than 30 members of varying skill levels who gather monthly to exchange tips, share their work, and discuss the stories behind their photos.

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This September, the Photography Interest Group and dozens of other resident-led clubs will be showcased at Charlestown's annual Club, Group, and Organization Expo--an exciting opportunity for residents to discover new ways to stay active and engaged.

From alumni associations and continuing education groups to performing arts and wine tasting, there's a club for nearly every interest at Charlestown.

"The expo was created to give clubs a platform to display their skills and passions, while encouraging residents to pursue their interests and make new friends," says Community Resources Manager Mary Evans.

Creative displays

Each group has its own designated table, which members decorate to reflect the group's activities.

"Residents get really creative," says Evans. "One year, the knitting club did a live spinning wheel demonstration, and the fishing club set up a fish tank with a fish they caught from our pond. I'm always impressed by their ideas."

At the most recent expo, the Photography Interest Group featured a slideshow of members' photos. "People stopped by to watch, ask questions, share their photography experiences, and make connections," says Betty.

Striking a chord

Little Theatre Company, Harmonizers, Jazz Club, and the Hand Bell Choir are among the many groups representing the performing arts and musical talents at Charlestown.

When Tom and Jeanne Alizio moved to Charlestown from Columbia, Md., in 2022, they brought their love of karaoke and started the C'Town Karaoke Super Stars, which will have a table at this year's expo.

The group meets on the second Monday of each month in the card room at Cross Creek Clubhouse to sing, connect with fellow music lovers, and enjoy an evening of fun.

"After we retired, we had a side [karaoke] business, so we already owned all the karaoke equipment," says Tom. "When we moved to Charlestown, we thought, 'Why not start a group?' It's a lot of fun!"

He continues, "We have an active community with wonderful clubs; the expo is a great way to see them all in one place. You can read a list, but seeing the displays and talking to the people who lead the groups gives you a much better sense of what they offer and how to join."

"If you're new here, it's a great way to become [active in] the community," adds Jeanne. "Whatever your interests or hobbies are, there's likely a club for you--and if not, you can start one!"

Evans and her team are always happy to help new groups get up and running.

Sneak peek

The expo also welcomes Priority List members and reservists, providing them an opportunity to explore everything Charlestown has to offer and build connections before moving in.

"Shared interests and passions naturally bring people together," says Evans. "These groups and clubs make it easy for new residents to connect with neighbors and form lasting friendships."

"Someone moved in recently who was very interested in photography. At our next meeting, they brought a friend, who then brought someone new," says Betty.

Evans notes that the variety of clubs and high level of engagement speaks to the community's vibrant, worry-free lifestyle.

"Residents no longer need to worry about home maintenance and repairs or responsibilities like yard work," she explains. "Having extra time allows them to pursue new interests and meet new people."

More to explore

The arrival of new residents continues to enrich the community, as fresh ideas and interests have the potential for new and unique clubs to emerge.

"It's hard to believe, but even with 300 groups already on campus, there are still hobbies we haven't tapped into," says Evans.

"The more new people move into the community, the more clubs form, and that's always fun!" says Betty.

To learn more about independent senior living at Charlestown, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and much more.

By Danielle Rexrode