Bingo is a Big Deal!

Senior citizens regularly “fill the room” to attend KAA’s Chapter Golden Living program

by Bros. CPittman III and KoF Michael Moss (photos)

Decatur, Georgia – April 16, 2025 – Once a month, on Wednesday at 7 pm, the Chapter brothers assemble at the Glenwood Health Center to conduct the Chapter’s Golden Living senior citizen residents’ program. Some residents can walk while others roll in their wheelchairs towards the recreational room early to claim a table, with many mingling around an hour to an hour ½ before the games begin. Bingo night is extremely big and highly anticipated by the residents. When the brothers enter the doors of the building, they can immediately see and hear the buzz in the recreation room as they walk about 50 feet ahead. Bro Dane Porter, who frequently participates, looks forward to seeing and talking to the seniors to ‘get a feel’ for how they are doing and to bring joy to them, especially to a few of his favorite seniors. Without a doubt, the brothers witness the lively social interaction and sense of friendship, while the seniors also show mental stimulation and hand-eye coordination which is important for their health.

Bingo night is led by Bro. Eric Laramore, the Golden Living chair, who ensures the handout of two prime items to each resident sitting at a table: Bingo cards along with handfuls of plastic markers. Laramore usually plays the role of “The Banker” who calls out randomly chosen numbers from a cradle until one of the residents shouts out “Bingo”. The other KAA brothers equally enjoy themselves by contributing dollars for the winnings, while inspiring the residents at each table to lay down markers so he or she can win. Laramore assures each resident has healthy snacks, leaves with some winnings, including a little extra for those celebrating birthdays.

He has been coordinating this KAA event since 2005 because Laramore says, “caring for these residents is heartfelt and I truly look forward to interacting with them. I believe this Program is the most important one that we conduct because ‘it is second to none’.” Laramore added that this Program and mentoring the youth are the ‘top’ most important programs that KAA conducts.

Residents at this Center by Harborview Health Systems, receive around-the-clock care in a quiet, comfortable setting while engaged in a variety of activities designed to provide a sense of self-worth and purpose.

KAA Chapter is led by Bros. Basileus Tim Roberson and Vice Basileus Clint Raines. What is your role!