Running an organization that encourages group participation can be quite a challenge at the best of times but for the past 2 years the Schreiber Senior Centre has had to find that fine balance between staying relevant and providing a service. COVID came as a shock to most but  for the vulnerable seniors population it would be an even tougher time.

The Schreiber Senior Centre has gone from strength to strength since opening its doors nearly 4 years ago. Cathy Carlino is the Head Programme Director and met up with Terry Thompson and Edythe Howard, Chair and vice Chair respectively, to discuss this last few years and and tell us about what is being planned for the centre now that everything is opening

up. Residents are not only encouraged to sign up but also help in the creation of programs. The Centre has become a central hub of activity for most seniors in the town. Elderly people face the added struggle with loneliness and so a venue where residents can come together and have a laugh and enjoy each others company was always going to be a success.

The Centre is located in the Schreiber Municipal building, and as a result, has to abide by whatever regulations the township imposes. COVID closed the place down and threatened to permanently cancel the project. However some clever thinking from Cathy and her amazing staff of volunteers were determined to stay relevant and continue to keep engaging with seniors in the town. One of the very first things they did was to make sure everyone was acknowledged by distributing food hampers during the first COVID Christmas. Other programs included Home Bingo, virtual Chair Yoga through zoom and even a turkey giveaway this last Thanksgiving.

As restrictions were lifted, some programs were resurrected. Indoor sports has been re-introduced and of course the weekly card games are becoming quite popular. The outdoor summer barbeque is returning next month and a preview was held at the Recreation Centre as part of a spring fling program. This summer, during the Heritage Days week, it is expected that the Senior Centre will have an extra busy time as former residents flock to town to reconnect with friends and family.