Community interest fuels expansion of Pop-up Senior Dining Program in Merrill

In fall 2025, the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Central Wisconsin (ADRC-CW) gathered input from older adults in the Merrill community following a pause in senior dining services at Jenny Towers. Through focus groups and community conversations, participants shared their hopes for more welcoming and engaging senior dining options.
From those discussions, and with creativity plus strong community partnerships, the ADRC-CW launched Gather at the Table, a pop-up senior dining experience designed to bring older adults together for weekly social connection, engaging activities, and nutritious meals.
“This new senior dining experience has connected the Merrill community in ways we never could have imagined,” said Ronda James, ADRC-CW Director of Nutrition. “From the enthusiasm of T.B. Scott Free Library to the community-minded partnership with Center Grill, our caterer, we truly have something special happening in Merrill for our active older adult community.”
Gather at the Table launched in October at T.B. Scott Free Library, featuring an activity followed by a catered lunch, served by ADRC-CW and prepared by Center Grill (Les and Jim’s). Participation reached near capacity at the first gathering, with full reservations for the following events. The strong response confirmed that a once-a-week gathering paired with a fun activity and a shared meal was exactly what the community wanted and needed.
Due to overwhelming interest, the ADRC-CW is excited to announce the expansion of Gather at the Table to a second Merrill location. Beginning in February, Merrill Enrichment Center will host Gather at the Table on the first Wednesday of each month. Lunch will be served by the ADRC-CW at 12:30 p.m., followed by an activity provided by the Merrill Enrichment Center.

Registration and reservations are required to participate in Gather at the Table. Adults 60+ are encouraged to register for any — or all — Gather at the Table locations offered throughout the county by calling the ADRC-CW at 888.486.9545.

February Gather at the Table events
• NEW! February 4 – Merrill Enrichment Center
ADRC-CW serving lunch at 12:30 p.m., catered by Center Grill, followed by a technology presentation from Church Mutual.
Registration now open — call 888.486.9545.

• February 11 – T.B. Scott Free Library
Cyber Security with Chris Sprague presentation at 11:00 a.m.
ADRC-CW serving lunch at 12:00 p.m. (noon) catered by Center Grill.
Limited spots available.
• February 18 – Gleason Lions Club
ADRC-CW serving lunch at 12:00 p.m. (noon).
Followed by Bingo.

The Aging and Disability Resource Center of Central Wisconsin serves older adults, adults with disabilities, and their caregivers by providing information, resources, and support to help individuals make informed choices and maintain independence. ADRC-CW serves residents across Central Wisconsin through partnerships with local organizations and community agencies.