Riderwood's 1940s & 1950s Club Connects Through Shared Life Experiences

Riderwood, an Erickson Senior Living community in Silver Spring, Md., provides a wealth of opportunities for residents to meet and engage with others. With more than 240 clubs to choose from at the community, there is something for everyone!

One of these groups is the 1940s & 1950s Club, started by residents of the Baby Boomer generation so they could meet to discuss their hobbies, interests, and shared life experiences. The club continually attracts a loyal and enthusiastic membership thanks to its welcoming, inclusive atmosphere. 

"We are an informal group who enjoy getting together for a variety of activities," says club president Vera Buffaloe. "And, as our interests evolve and change, so do our activities."

Common interests

Vera recalls learning about the group soon after moving to Riderwood. "There is a yearly Activities Fair where clubs set up tables and share information on who they are," she says. "When I learned about the 1940s & 1950s Club, I decided to join."

Now, she encourages other residents to join the group. After moving to Riderwood in June 2022 from Nahant, Mass., Nancy Jordan was encouraged by Vera to join the group.

"We really enjoy the club, especially the socialization," says Nancy, who now serves as club secretary. 

"We plan parties and activities for members to enjoy food, decorations, and group games such as trivia."

With a current membership of over 120 residents, the club prides itself on its fun, informal nature. 

"Above all else, we are a social club," says Vera. "I believe socialization, especially as we age, is so important." 

She adds, "Riderwood provides so many opportunities to spend time with others, and we tend to gravitate toward those we have something in common with. Because our group is made up of people who are of similar ages, we find that we share not only common interests but also appreciate similar movies, music, and life events. It's fun to share and reminisce."

Inclusive from the start

Kathy Schafer, who also appreciates the camaraderie of sharing common life experiences, has been a member of the 1940s & 1950s Club since its inception. 

"When I heard another resident talk about the Great War, I thought of Vietnam, but of course, they meant World War II. When they spoke of a great president, they meant Roosevelt, but I was thinking about Jack Kennedy," recalls Kathy. "As a result, the club was created for residents born in the 1940s."

The club's reputation for inclusivity was evident from its early days. 

"Our club was small at first, but it quickly grew as [new] residents moved to Riderwood. A few years later, residents born in the 1950s wanted to join, so we included them," says Kathy.

Engaging activities

Among the club's most popular events are the regular potluck dinners, including the spring picnic and fall gathering.

"Eating with friends is something I really enjoy," says Vera. "Our potluck dinners are wonderful because everyone brings a dish they enjoy sharing with others. Sometimes, we order food from local restaurants. The best part is gathering together to enjoy a good meal and interesting conversation."

Club members also enjoy feeding their minds, hosting resident-led presentations on a variety of topics.

"We reach out to members to see if they have a background or experience they'd like to share," says Vera. "For instance, we have one member who was a park ranger at the Shenandoah National Park. He gives wonderful talks. Another one of our members, a botanical expert, gave a presentation on connecting people with plants such as cacti and succulents."

The club's most recent presentation was given by a resident who detailed her trip to Taiwan, complete with a beautiful photo presentation.

"I appreciate that our club offers us opportunities to gather together for intellectual stimulation and fun," says Nancy.

'A good time'

As Riderwood's younger population continues to grow, members of the 1940s & 1950s Club look forward to meeting many new members in the future.

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