By GAIL NEUMANN
Special to the Driftwood
When I retired, I drove right past the Seniors Centre because I thought, “I’m not old enough for that.” Little did I know that the Salt Spring Seniors Services Society is quite relevant for both old and young seniors.
Like a clubhouse with all sorts of activities, learning opportunities and mutual support, it’s a place where “everybody knows your name.” I invite readers not to wait. The centre has lots to offer, and new members are often pleasantly surprised at how many friends they find there, both old and new.
For me, the ice breaker came when my friend’s 80-something neighbour invited her to help cook and serve lunches for the Thursday gatherings. She loved it! She relayed comical tales of serving and she laughed at herself and others. She loves to cook and it gave her a chance to make new friends, experiment with new recipes and see others enjoying her work. She flourished and it was enticing. Her husband joined the team and helped by setting up tables and serving.
A mutual friend decided to check it out. She and her husband became regular lunch-goers. She invited me to join them and I couldn’t see the harm in going out for lunch with friends, even at a seniors centre. There, I found other friends and acquaintances and saw people of my own age enjoying life. Soon, I dropped my objections and I too, became a regular. Other friends followed.
Lunches and coffee groups may seem at first to be the most enticing events at the centre, but there are many more ways to become involved.
Seniors gather for interest groups of almost every hobby or skill imaginable. Artsy seniors bring their own projects, and each works individually while they chat. It’s a social afternoon where encouragement and tips are welcome. A knowledgeable calligraphy instructor leads another group. The Lost Chords and Women of Note choirs and a recorder group meet at the centre.
From no-partner dancing to games such as mah jong and bridge or Italian studies, the clubhouse hums through the week. Check with the receptionist to be sure drop-ins are welcome. If someone has an interest and wishes to lead a gathering, there is most likely space for them too.
Community partnerships are important at the Salt Spring Seniors Centre. On Friday mornings, a large group meets for coffee and socializing. Thanks to a partnership with Gulf Islands Families Together Society, they enjoy fresh goodies with hot coffee served every Friday by a couple of young volunteers.
Salt Spring Literacy partners with the Seniors Centre by providing a volunteer to help with members’ phones or computers. It’s friendly and it’s free. They also link the centre with programs such as cooking classes for seniors.
Hudson and Woodward, a wonderful pair of homeschoolers, do gardening, seasonal decorating and give general assistance. The centre looks much more attractive with their help.
The South Salt Spring Community Gathering Place, formerly known as the Fulford Seniors, is a new partner. We open our programs to each other’s members, and our boards keep in touch.
Support groups meet at the centre, to help caregivers, and those impacted by Parkinson’s disease. As other issues arise, and mentors become available, new groups are invited to use the centre. Just speak to the receptionist to be connected with the programs committee.
New members are welcome to step up beside our established volunteers. Volunteerism is the backbone of the Seniors Centre. Volunteering is a great way to make new friends and to stay relevant in the community.
I was asked to help produce a newsletter. I had written newsletters for years in my former career, so it was a good fit. I met some great new people and I like the feeling of helping others. If you come with skills, you too would be welcome to sign up, and if you’d rather do something completely different, we’ll still take you.
The front reception desk is the hub of the organization. Volunteers answer the phone, offer information and direct newcomers to services or recreation activities as requested. Under the watchful eye of our front coordinator, Andrea, and our new office coordinator, Rebecca, the hub is organized and efficient.
Year-round, volunteers step up to drive seniors to medical appointments. The Seniors Centre has partnered with Island Health to provide transportation to medical appointments. Members can phone 1-844-940-6617 to request a ride and Island Health will pass the request to our volunteers at the drivers’ desk. This is a vital service to seniors who are no longer able to drive.
Another important service is income tax preparation. Our volunteers are trained to file simple income tax forms for our members. This is a free service.
As we and our friends age it becomes apparent that at some time we too will need help, whether with the mundane tasks of daily life or larger issues. Being connected at the Seniors Centre opens doors for opportunities to serve now and to find help later. Our website banner showcases our slogan, “Where People Care About Each Other.”
Whatever your stage of life, please consider joining the Salt Spring Seniors Services Society and meet others who care.
