The Kenneth C. Aitken Senior & Community Center, located at 17800 Redwood Road in Castro Valley, California, is a significant community asset operated and maintained by the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (HARD). Primarily serving adults aged 50 and older, the center functions as a vibrant hub for social, educational, and recreational activities. Following recent renovations completed in 2023, funded by Measure F1, the facility boasts updated amenities including new flooring, paint, lighting, and improved accessibility, ensuring a welcoming environment for its patrons.

A diverse array of programs caters to the interests and needs of local seniors. Offerings include fitness classes like EnhanceFitness, Yoga, Pilates, and QiGong, alongside creative pursuits such as Chinese Ink Painting and Ukulele lessons. Social interaction is encouraged through activities like bridge games, board games, table tennis, billiards, book circles, and various dance classes including Hawaiian Hula, Swing, Ballroom, Tango, and Latin dance. The center also provides educational workshops and features a computer lab with WiFi access, supporting lifelong learning and digital literacy.

Beyond classes and social gatherings, the Aitken Center provides important services, notably a Senior Lunch Program operated by Spectrum Community Services. This “Meet & Eat” program offers nutritious meals from Monday to Thursday around noon, requiring advance registration and providing both sustenance and social connection. The center’s main hall is also available for rent for private events and special occasions during specified hours. Operating hours for general activities typically run from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekdays, making it a key daytime resource for Castro Valley’s older adult population.