Warrior’s new senior center director is shaking things up a bit.

Robbie Long started in the position on May 6, following the retirement of Jackie Holt, who had served as director for many years.

“I love working with senior adults,” said Long, who is also the senior director at Smokerise Baptist Church. “This is where God led me.”

In the past six weeks, Long has been busy getting new activities on the center’s calendar.

She has also been taking groups of seniors out for a monthly “birthday lunch bunch” meal or to shop, and next month a group will visit the Blue Bell Creamery in Sylacauga.

New things are also happening at the senior center itself.

Musicians have been playing there to liven things up, including Joe Fields, the Backwoods Quartet and Michael Dyar.

On Friday, the center hosted a Flag Day presentation with music.

In addition, Long teaches a twice-weekly exercise class, since she is certified to do so. A Jefferson County Office of Senior Citizens Services representative also visits to give exercise classes.

Long has other plans: She wants to start a ceramics class and plan outreach parties, including a Hawaiian party next month.

Another addition is particularly important to Long.

“We always start out every morning with a devotion and prayer,” she said. “I don’t start the morning without that.”

Not everything has changed at the center. Long said many of the senior center staples are still there, such as cards and bingo.

“They love to play cards, but I’m trying to add some more things to the schedule,” she said.

The center is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

All seniors age 60 and older are invited to attend. A hot meal is served every day for $1.50.

Right now, 12-15 seniors attend the center every day, but Long is trying to boost attendance.

“We just need more people in here, because it’s a very good program,” she said.

Long added that the seniors who regularly attend the center seem happy with the changes.

“They’ve been really supportive. They’re very encouraging,” she said. “I think God has great plan for this place. He’s telling me to just get ready.”

The center, located at 100 Church Street in Warrior, is hosting a tea for Long on June 30, 2-4 p.m. Refreshments and prizes will be available.

To learn more, call the senior center at 590-1815.