Seniors in Innisfail can look forward to a variety of activities, including some new programming at the Innisfail Seniors Drop-In Centre in 2016.
And that is due largely to the addition of the centre's new program coordinator.
Eileen Reid, the former Family and Community Support Services volunteer coordinator for the Town of Innisfail, began her new role in mid-December and will be working on a number of programming areas for seniors at the drop-in centre.
“We're looking to drive our membership up,” said Reid. “We're also looking at different programs and one of the things that has been talked about for quite a while here is an exercise program.”
The Innisfail Seniors Drop-In Centre is open to those age 55 years and over and is considered a vibrant social venue for seniors to gather for activities, support and friendships, noted Reid.
Some of the activities enjoyed at the centre include carpet bowling, weekly jam sessions, floor curling, a walking group in the summer, and a musical group called the Senior Serenaders that meets once a week and performs at various events. Once a month, they also host wellness days to educate members on various topics, such as diabetes or brain gym.
“We want to invite the public to come out to the drop-in centre. You don't have to be a member,” said Reid. “When we have our exercise program and other events, we're trying to open it up a little bit to get people to come in and be familiar with what we do.”
Since joining the team at the senior drop-in centre, Reid said she has received some positive feedback.
“They're wonderful. I was very, very pleased when they asked me in for an interview. I really do love working with them,” she added. “I am familiar with them and I know them. They're close to my heart.”
Reid said as the new program coordinator she wants to focus on where the centre can improve and how to have more of the community involved.
“We've been getting some ideas from the members and what they would like to see,” said Reid, noting some include groups for chess, cribbage, military whist, card games and exercise.
They are also looking into providing some evening activities or events, she said.
Although the position is new, it is something that was needed in Innisfail added Reid.
“Our group is at a point where we need to get some new people and some new ideas,” said Reid, noting that welcoming new people with fresh ideas and knowledge of things like technology will help keep the centre a vibrant and active place to be.
“One of the things I really want to promote is the unity in community. That's really important,” Reid concluded.
For more information or to join the centre contact Reid at 403-227- 6601 or email her at [email protected]
Eileen Reid
"I really do love working with them. I am familiar with them and I know them. They're close to my heart."
