Seniors from across the West Valley gathered for the inaugural Litchfield Park and Goodyear Senior Expo hosted by Independent Newsmedia, connecting residents with health care providers, home improvement companies, entertainment venues and other community resources.
The event brought together more than 30 vendors serving Goodyear, Litchfield Park and surrounding communities. Attendees browsed booths, collected information and spoke one-on-one with representatives about services tailored to active adults.
For attendees Don and Claudia McDonald of PebbleCreek, the expo offered both information and social connection.
“I wanted to see if there’s anything new,” Claudia McDonald said, adding that events like the Senior Expo make it easier for residents to find the information they need in one place. “Were glad for events like these, especially so close to home.”
Among the exhibitors was Arizona Broadway Theatre, a nonprofit dinner theater based in Peoria. Megan Werner, guest services manager, said the expo offered an opportunity to connect directly with a core audience.
“A big part of our patrons are seniors,” Werner said. “A lot of people go downtown for shows and don’t realize we’re right here in the West Valley.”
Werner said face-to-face conversations help to introduce residents to the theater’s lineup of musicals, tribute performances and murder mystery shows, as well as its dinner theater experience. As a nonprofit, she said, community engagement is essential.
“Community is what keeps the arts alive,” Werner said. “We rely on the community not just for donations, but for ticket sales and keeping theater alive in the West Valley.”
Health care organizations also used the expo to emphasize prevention and local access to services. Christie Shears a representatives from City of Hope said many seniors are unaware of local information about cancer screenings and early detection guidelines.
“One of the biggest messages is that we’re here in Goodyear,” Shears said. “We’re a resource close to home.”
Shears said conversations about cancer can be difficult but are critical, especially for older adults who face higher statistical risks.
“Early detection is key, so the conversations we have with people before they know more are key” she said. “The sooner you can find out if you’re at risk or in the early stages, the better the outcome can be.”
Home improvement vendors also highlighted the value of in-person interaction. Wesley North, representing Jacuzzi Bath Remodel of Arizona, said expos allow potential customers to ask detailed questions and explore options that can’t be covered in a brief advertisement.
“In person, you can interact and answer questions right away,” North said. “It’s a better way to reach people, especially in a retirement community.”
Vendors represented industries ranging from Medicare insurance and clinical research to dermatology, dental care, travel and home remodeling.
Organizers said the goal of the Senior Expo is to strengthen ties between local businesses and the area’s growing active-adult population.
James Goldmeer Reporter | Goodyear & Litchfield Park
Meet James James Goldmeer joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in July 2024, starting their career as a reporter in Goodyear and Litchfield Park.
Community: James grew up in the West Valley, calling Avondale home and going to school in Glendale and Peoria. Returning to the community after university, James plans to get involved in everything arts and culture, and civil rights.
Education: Northern Arizona University a bachelor's degree in Journalism, a certificate in Professional Communications, with a minor in English.
Random Fact: James spent half a year as an intern for the Arizona House of Representatives communication team, working with legislators to inform the public through press releases and social media.
Hobbies: James collects postcards and old books, reads memoirs and attends local jazz shows.
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