Over the decades, our community center in Appleton has taken on many names and locations—but its heart has always stayed the same. It began as the Appleton Civic League, then became the Golden Agers Club House, and later the Appleton Senior Center. Eventually, the Thompson Community Center (TCC) was established on West College Avenue, named in honor of Neola Thompson, a dedicated supporter of the senior community.

For years, TCC served as a vibrant hub for older adults. It was a place to connect, engage, and thrive through activities like the Young at Heart Singers, line dancing, Bingo, billiards, watercolors, stained glass, card playing, and the Civic League. It was more than just a building—it was a second home. As Sue Arnoldussen of the Civic League once said, “It is so much more than a senior center. One feels life there. It feels great just to be in the building. It is a building of love.”

When financial challenges made it impossible for TCC to continue, Lutheran Social Services graciously stepped in to help. But in 2016, that too became unsustainable, and the center had to close. The impact was immediate—those who relied on TCC for
friendship, purpose, and routine suddenly had nowhere to go.

St. Bernadette Parish opened its doors, offering its former school building as a new gathering place. The groups moved in, and the center was renamed Thompson Center on Lourdes (TCoL), to help people find it. The organization formally organized as an independent nonprofit, and the community rallied around it once again.

Despite its many transformations, the mission never wavered: to provide a welcoming, engaging space for older adults. The challenge, however, was always sustainability. A few years ago, the TCoL board recognized that by 2027, one-third of our local population would be over 55. With growing demand and over 50 programs offered weekly, the need for a permanent and practical space became clear.

A capital campaign was launched, and generous donors responded. Chief among them was Mary Beth Nienhaus—longtime supporter, volunteer, and beloved community member.

To many, she’s “Miss Nienhaus,” the unforgettable high school gym teacher. She is my hero. She not only gave financially but also brought her trademark energy and heart to the effort. Thanks to her vision and generosity, the dream became reality.

In her honor, the new space is now called the Mary Beth Nienhaus Activity Center. It’s not a “senior” center—it is a vibrant community hub. With more than 50 weekly programs (yes, including pickleball!), it continues the legacy of connection, wellness,
and joy.

Located at 3000 E. College Avenue, the MBN Activity Center is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Visit mbnactivitycenter.org to learn more.

It is time for you to check it out. They will introduce you around. They promise that on your first visit, you will go home with friends.
It’s still a building of love—and now, it’s found its forever home.