The Broken Arrow Senior Center’s mission is to create an enriching, inclusive community for people 55 and over by promoting social engagement and active lifestyle programs.
For 37 years, the Broken Arrow Senior Center has connected over 3,500 area seniors through membership and vibrant community programs.
Executive Director Annie Bast says the Broken Arrow Senior Center stands out in Oklahoma by offering an extensive range of activities, dedicated facilities, and a singular focus on serving seniors.
“We offer over 119 activities a week,” Bast said. “There’s something for everybody, from Bible Studies, Yoga, Bunco, Bingo, to a pool hall, pickleball, quilting, and crafting. Almost any interest is covered here.”
Membership is affordable for seniors on fixed incomes and offers opportunities for socializing, meals, exercise, and games.
“For $40 a year, you get unlimited access to all the activities,” Bast said.
Non-Broken Arrow residents pay $50 a year, and the center serves over 500 people daily, five days a week.
Bast recommends people take a tour of the facilities to learn more about the organization’s programming.
“The way the classes are lined up, it kind of brings in different people,” Bast said. “So, you know we get to see a lot of people in and out of our doors. We have a transportation system that, if you’re unable to make it, we can help you get set up for transportation to and from the center.”
The variety of activities draws people from Broken Arrow and nearby communities, with some even traveling from Grove.
“That speaks to what we offer,” Bast said. “Given the fact that Broken Arrow has taken that initiative and invested in the community, I think it speaks volumes as to how much they care about the people in our community who are becoming of age.”
The Senior Center operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with extended hours until 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays to accommodate more members. Through these offerings, Broken Arrow Seniors provides a sense of community for the city's senior population.
“They feel welcomed and can make friends,” Bast said. “If they’ve lost a loved one, they can meet others with similar experiences and feel like part of a big family, even if they have no relatives nearby.”
Currently, the Senior Center operates in two facilities located across the street from each other at 1800 S. Main Street, which introduces its own set of challenges.
“It makes it kind of difficult because we’re separated. The building on the west side is much older and comes with its share of problems, as all old buildings do. There are leaks and problems with the plumbing and A/C that we’re constantly dealing with,” Bast said. “The Annex is on the east side of Main Street. It was built a couple of years ago, and this one is great!”
Following the construction of the Annex, membership at the Broken Arrow Senior Center doubled, further highlighting the center's value to the community.
“It provided more services to more people,” Bast said.
While the two facilities provide more space, Bast is concerned that seniors must cross the street, emphasizing the importance of a unified space for safety and community.
With the 2026 General Obligation Bond, under Proposition 4: Public Facilities, the Broken Arrow City Council allocated $18 million for a new addition to the Senior Center Annex. If approved by Broken Arrow voters, the addition would allow the Broken Arrow Senior Center to be housed in a single facility.
“Being together under one roof would be amazing!” Bast said.”
As director, Bast appreciates the city’s commitment to providing this type of facility and programming for its senior residents.
"Broken Arrow truly cares about its seniors," Bast said. "Having a welcoming place helps everyone connect and stay active."
