Oasis is a senior enrichment program offering mental and physical stimulation to seniors who have a desire to be active.  Along with enriching programs comes an outlet for socializing and creating friendships.  As an example, Oasis brings you the "Red Hat Society." 

If you're anything like me you'll furrow your brow and ask, "What is the Red Hat Society, and how important can it be with such a frivolous name?" The answer is simple.  The Red Hat Society was founded by Sue Ellen Cooper and her friends of Fullerton, CA, and is based on the poem "Warning" by Jenny Joseph.  Its purpose is to empower women over the age of 50 who have "behaved" for a better portion of their lives.  According to the non-laws of the Red Hat Society, it's time for these societal beauties to live it up – in some cases for the first time, but certainly not the last!

As of October 31, 2003, there were 13 official chapter listings in Charlotte, NC. The JCC's Oasis Senior Enrichment Program will induct lucky number 14 at the glimmer of the New Year with its very own chapter, "The Red Hat Yentas."

So without further adieu, I will leave you with the poem with which it all began...

 WARNING By Jenny Joseph

 When I am an old woman I shall wear purple

With a red hat which doesn't go and doesn't suit me.

And I shall spend my pension on brandy and summer gloves

And satin sandals, and say we've no money for butter.

I shall sit down on the pavement when I am tired

And gobble up the samples in shops and press alarm bells

And run my stick along public railings

And make up for the sobriety of my youth.

I shall go out in my slippers in the rain

And pick the flowers in other peoples gardens...

But maybe I ought to practice a little now?

So people who know me are not too shocked and surprised

When suddenly I am old, and start to wear purple.

Oasis Senior Enrichment Programs at the JCC are for ALL ACTIVE SENIORS. As a United Way Member Agency, we welcome all seniors from the Greater Charlotte area, regardless of religious affiliation.  The Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte also provides substantial support to Oasis. 

To learn more about Oasis or it's Red Hat Society Chapter, The Red Hat Yentas, please contact Stephanie Glick, JCC Senior Adult Services Coordinator, 704.944.6730 or sglick@shalomcharlotte.org.

Thinking of joining The Red Hat Yentas? Here are answers to some common questions:

Q: Can women of all backgrounds join or does she have to be Jewish to be a member of The Red Hat Yentas?  A: Yes!  All women with a vision of empowerment and humor are encouraged to join The Red Hat Yentas.

Q: Do I have to be 50 to join?  A: No, women ages 49 and under are indeed welcome to join and are often referred to as Pink Hats.

Q: What will my husband and children think? A: According to recent research, we believe the official response of the Red Hat Society would be, "Who cares?"