Referrred to as a place where the wise ones hang out, the 撸奶社区Seniors Centre is a hive of activity and enthusiasm, with which many younger members of the public would struggle to keep up. Its 332 members are clearly embracing life to the fullest, as the ring of laughter and warm smiles are a distinguishing feature of the state-of-the-art facility.
The doors officially opened in September 2009 and according to seniors recreation program supervisor Carol Wynne, the project was a labour of love, spanning a number of years and several delays before being realized.
The catalyst was when the developer for the Eaglewind complex promised a 10,000-square-foot space for a seniors centre as part of its agreement for building on seniors land. Park land was also part of the package, which includes lawn bowling greens, tennis courts and a community garden. Seniors themselves were involved in the design and planning process for the centre, which led to the addition of important features throughout the building.
Wynne said she is thrilled to have been involved since the start of the project. For my career it tops it, she said.
Commencing her career in pre-school programs, Wynne then moved into the realm of programming at Brennan Park Recreation Centre and when the opportunity arose to work at the new seniors centre, she jumped at it. Pre-school to seniors thats perfect for me, she said.
Her admiration for seniors is evident.
All the associations and seniors in this community are so hard working. They want it to be a place where seniors want to stay.
She explained how, 10 years ago, seniors were leaving town because of the lack of seniors facilities. Now we have this beautiful little gathering of buildings, she said. Its really like a hub for the seniors.
Noting that she finds seniors enjoyable with which to work, Wynne went on to say that seniors come from all walks of life and have a lot to share. Thats the one thing about seniors is that they give so freely of their time and they need to be respected for that, she said.
Volunteer Morgan Hellyer has been involved with the centre since its opening and she loves the feel of the place. It has such a wonderful ambiance, she said. And I feel at home.
Hellyer said that the centre has great possibilities and can only get better.
Muriel Shephard, secretary of the 撸奶社区Seniors Centre Society and volunteer, is also passionate about the centre. We are so well served, she said. Its a beautiful facility.
When glancing at the monthly calendar posted on the board, one can see the diverse range of activities available at the seniors centre. There are fitness classes several days a week, folk dance classes, carpet bowling, crib games, knitting, paint and sketch sessions and a myriad of workshops, ever changing and influenced by ideas generated by the seniors.
A recent addition is the Travel Club, which had its first meeting in January. Wynne said its purpose is to encourage seniors to travel and learn about the world. Featuring presentations from travel experts, and regular slideshows and videos on various destinations around the globe, the club aims to educate on foreign regions, as well as those closer to home.
The future looks bright for the 撸奶社区Seniors Centre and Wynne is eager to see the centre be used even more. She said that many people in the community dont realize it exists.
Its in a corner of 撸奶社区that isnt frequented, she said. We have to highlight the location and give people a reason to come here.
If the numerous activities are not enough to lure people in, perhaps the aroma of good food will do the trick. The Clock Tower Caf operates within the seniors centre and is open to the public. The 撸奶社区Seniors Centre is located at 1201 Village Green Way. To find out more, visit www.squamishseniorscentre.com.
