By Kim Dixon

As we look forward to the New Year, it is time to reflect on the accomplishments of the old one. 2016 was a year of growth for our Centre. We welcomed new members and were pleased for the continued support of our ongoing members. The Centre’s membership fee helps with the day to day operation and allows us the opportunity to offer programs free of charge such as the weekly Friday Forum, monthly Friendship Tea, various special events and services.

We are grateful for the ongoing commitment from our partners and funders including the City of Victoria, United Way, BC Gaming, New Horizons as well as business support from Thrifty Foods, Pharmasave, Grilligans, Willie’s Bakery, Cob’s Bakery on Yates St, Beckley Manor, Amica, Chartwell – Ross Place and many more.

As we enter into 2017, we are pleased to be able to maintain our commitment to senior program and activities. We are grateful for ongoing funding for such programs as our Senior Reassurance Call, our Senior Hub, Active Seniors Enjoying Life and Sunday Suppers.

The Board made the decision this year to maintain our membership fee at $40.00. Although this may be a great expense to some, we are pleased that residents of Victoria can apply for a $40.00 City of Victoria credit. To see if you might qualify, check with staff that will be happy to help you with the application.

As we enter into our 43rd year of operation, we are moving into the 21st century with upgrades to our security system, audio visual equipment and our wi-fi capabilities. These improvements will not only be of benefit for our members but also to the various community groups and organizations that use our facilities.

We look forward to offering new programs including Ceramics, Alexander Technique, Yoga, Watercolour on Masa Paper, Pollinator Planter workshops and several health presentations and workshops including “Beating the Blues” on Saturday, Feb 18th. We are also introducing a Soup and a Bun lunch on Thursday’s at noon. Drop by and enjoy a hot lunch and meet some of your neighbours. Many thanks to Willie’s Bakery for providing the soup at a nominal fee for this event.

We invite you to drop by the Centre and see what we have to offer. As the members say, “It is a great place to have fun, meet people and forget about getting older. We are aging with pizazz!” We look forward to meeting you soon.