COVINGTON, Ind. — Many senior citizens in western Indiana call the Friendship Circle Center in Covington, Ind., their home away from home.

Five days a week an average of 45 seniors participate in activities at the center on Covington’s north side, including lunch.

“We have lots of activities,” said center director Jane Bowers. Activities range from exercise classes to bingo and musical groups to a Red Hat Society.

But it takes a lot of money to operate the center, which receives little funding. Bowers said it takes $45,000 to operate the center for the year and that does not include the hot meal program.

“Many people think we get state and federal funds,” she said. “We raise our own money.”

One event — the annual benefit at the Beef House — brings in about $15,000 each year.

The 17th annual benefit will be 6-9 p.m. EDT Oct. 5 and will feature hors d’oeuvres. This year’s theme will be “A Night with Disney.”

Michael Mayer and Linnea Leatherman of Indianapolis, who are on staff at the Myers Dinner Theater at Hillsboro, Ind., will sing two sets of Disney tunes — a 40-minute set and a 30-minute set.

Prior to the second set Christine France of Covington will present three Disney medleys on a baby grand piano.

“We are really excited,” said Bowers. “Old people remember a lot of Disney music.”

The programs will feature Disney trivia.

“We are decorating from Disney,” she said. “Each table will be different. It has been fun looking for things.”

Returning for the second year will be silent auction on specialty baskets. About 25-30 baskets will feature a variety of items.

Bowers was surprised at the success a year ago, when more than $1,000 came in from the auction.

The center is accepting monetary donations. To be listed in the program, the donation must be in by Friday.

Friday also is the deadline for nominations for the Living Legacy Award which will be presented during the program. The award honors someone who has contributed their time, wisdom and heart to Covington and its residents through community events, organization and overall good will. The fifth annual award is presented jointly by Friendship Circle Center and The Waters of Covington.

The students of the Covington High School family and consumer class will wait on the tables.

“Ever since I was small I have been involved in the benefit,” said Emily Miller, who is in her second year as benefit chairwoman. “I have been working on the baskets and the donations and selling tickets. Now, we are doing the decorations.”

They hope to attract 250 to the benefit.

“Where can you go and eat and have entertainment for $15,” Miller said. “It is our chance once a year to do something really good.”

CENTER BENEFIT

The Friendship Circle Center benefit will be from 6-9 p.m. EDT Oct. 5 at the Beef House Banquet Center near Covington, Ind. Benefit tickets are $15 per person and are available at the senior center, 1307 Pearl St., or by calling (765) 793-4871.

Donations are being accepted for the annual fundraiser for the maintenance and operation of the center. They can be mailed or dropped off to the center at 1307 Pearl St., Covington, IN 47932. Donations will be accepted at any time, but to get your name or to memorialize someone in the benefit booket, they must be received no later than Friday.