The Silver Sampler Outdoor Recreation & Education Program is an official program of the City of Marquette Senior Center.

Established in 2015 through a grant received from the Michigan Recreation Park Authority, the Silver Sampler exposes participants to recreational adventures which may otherwise be out of reach physically, emotionally, financially, or due to lack of exposure, experience, or confidence.

Presented in a safe, supportive and non-threatening series, with activities led by expert guides, participants are able to try a new way of experiencing their community. Adventures offered include but are not limited to skating, cross country skiing, snow biking, snowshoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, rowing, trail running, mountain biking, and rock climbing.

The initial goal of the Silver Sampler program is to allow participants to "try on" a new activity. Once they experience the activity, the hope is that they'll be inspired to want to incorporate that activity into their daily life. The anticipated result will be an individual who has obtained the physical skills, emotional confidence, and social support to make a positive health change which will translate into overall health for years to come.

To date, over 700 older adults have participated in Silver Sampler programming. Many of these participants have successfully translated the experiences and skills they learned through the program into lasting hobbies, and in some cases, given back by leading adventures of their own.

Silver Sampler is open to individuals ages 50 and over residing in the City of Marquette, Marquette Township, Chocolay Township, and Powell Township. Residents from outside of this service area may attend for a suggested $5 donation. Registration for outings and adventures takes place on a rolling basis, and can be made by contacting the Marquette Senior Center.

For more information, please contact the Senior Center at (906) 228-0456 or in-person at 300 West Spring St., Marquette.