Snowflake Ball
Held each January or February, the Snowflake Ball is the premier fundraising event for the AmeriCorps Seniors’ Senior Companion Program. Before the big night, eight dedicated King and Queen Ambassadors dedicate months of their time raising funds to support the program. The celebration culminates in the reveal of the top fundraisers and the crowning of the King, Queen, Prince, and Princess.
The next Snowflake Ball is Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 6:00-9:30pm at Rothchild Catering & Conference Center.
Tickets available December 1st
Pancake Fest
Pancake Fest is the John T. O’Connor Senior Center’s largest annual fundraiser, drawing more than 1,000 attendees each March or April. Guests enjoy all-you-can-eat pancakes for just $5 (dine in or take to go), along with a resource expo, live entertainment, and a craft fair.
The next Pancake Fest is Friday, March 27, 2026, from 7:00am-12:00pm at the O’Connor Senior Center.
Parenting the Second Time Around Conference
Held each April, the Parenting the Second Time Around conference—hosted by the Grandparents as Parents program—brings together grandparents and relative caregivers for a day of learning, connection, and encouragement. Attendees gain helpful resources and support from others who understand their unique journey.
Duncan Awards
Duncan Awards Held each April or May for more than 20 years, the John J. Duncan, Sr. Awards for Senior Advocacy honors individuals and organizations that reflect the legacy of the late U.S. Representative John J. Duncan, Sr., a devoted advocate for older adults.
Nominations will be accepted through January 9, 2026
Senior Safety Summit
Held annually near September 11th, the Senior Safety Summit—hosted by the AmeriCorps Seniors’ Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)—brings together older adults, caregivers, and professionals for a day of learning and resources. Each year highlights a different theme, covering important topics like emergency preparedness, safety, and mental health.
Power of the Purse
Every September, Power of the Purse brings the community together for a lively evening benefiting Mobile Meals, Knox County’s Meals on Wheels program. Enjoy dinner, drinks, live entertainment, and plenty of shopping—including hundreds of purses, jewelry, and a VIP purse auction—all for a great cause!
Purse donations will begin summer of 2026
Grandfamilies Celebration Luncheon
Each fall, the Grandparents as Parents program hosts the Grandfamilies Celebration Luncheon to recognize and celebrate the grandparents and relative caregivers who give so much of themselves to their families. The event features a shared meal, helpful community resources, and uplifting entertainment and presentations.
Aging: A Family Affair
Aging: A Family Affair is our signature annual conference and resource expo, held each November for more than 40 years. This full-day event offers engaging workshops, valuable resources, and meaningful connections for older adults, caregivers, and professionals.
Join us this year on Thursday, November 5, 2026, from 7:30 am-3:45 pm at Rothchild Catering & Conference Center.
Partnership opportunities will be available.
Senior Angel Tree
Each holiday season, the AmeriCorps Seniors’ Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) coordinates the Senior Angel Tree to bring comfort and joy to older adults with limited resources or support. Community members donate gifts—such as blankets, toiletries, and puzzle books—which are collected throughout November.
Health Fairs (Spring & Fall)
Each spring and fall, the John T. O’Connor Senior Center welcomes community partners for health fairs focused on the well-being and safety of older adults. Attendees can connect with local agencies, explore helpful resources, and take advantage of free health screenings. Check back soon for future dates!