RICHARDSON – There are a lot of recreation programs and classes offered at the Richardson Senior Center that helps enhance the quality of life for people ages 55 and over, including a small shop known to bring joy and comfort.

Robin’s Nest is a consignment shop inside the facility where items sold range from doll clothes, purses and jewelry to quilts, even greeting cards.  The merchandise was all made by some of the center’s most creative visitors.

“I think it’s great therapy. It’s something for me to do in my retirement,” said volunteer Dora Putoni.

She works at Robin’s Nest twice a month helping to manage the shop.  She has been volunteering for three years and not only stocks the shelves but is one of the many retirees who creates the products being sold.

“I enjoy doing crafts and after a while you’ve given every member you know of your family, you’ve given some to all your relatives, all your friends and then you say what am I going to do with all this stuff because I really enjoy doing this particular craft,” she said.

The seniors work on their one-of-a-kind creations, individually from home. Then, each item is brought to the shop where it goes on sale. The creators collect 80% of the profit.

“It gives them a little bit of extra spending money but if you kind of see the pricing in there, we have a lot of things for a dollar, a dollar fifty so it’s more about being able to share their craft and having a place for their creative outlet,” said Tara Zavala, older adult coordinator for the Richardson Senior Center.

The doors at Robin’s Nest stay open four hours a day Monday through Friday, and the public is always welcome to stop by and shop.

“It’s fantastic, its unique. The ladies put their heart and soul into it,” said Zavala.

Robin’s Nest opened almost thirty years ago. It remains a special place where innovative ideas live, and the merchandise becomes more than just another sale.

“I think, wow this is really neat that somebody really enjoys what I have made and they want to be able to wear it or maybe gift it to somebody else and that’s a great feeling,” said Putoni.

The Richardson Senior Center, organized under the Parks and Recreation Department is the focal point for older adult services and activities.

For more information on the Richardson Senior Center, visit: https://www.cor.net/departments/parks-recreation/senior-center