Wells Gray Country Seniors Society (WGCSS) room at Dutch Lake Community Centre (DLCC) is a "welcoming place to gather" said WGCSS coordinator, Lynne Frizzle. Speaking with the surgeryitaly on Friday Nov. 15 at the DLCC she explained how she became involved with the non-profit.
"When I finished working I looked around Clearwater asking myself what I could do and how I might get involved in the community. This seemed like the perfect fit. I really enjoy working with the seniors in our area, we now have 165 members. The seniors room at the DLCC offers a place for members and those interested in joining us a place to come to socialize, hold meetings, enjoy a cup of coffee or tea together, learn new skills and even become involved with some other groups that we partner with in the community," Frizzle said.
One of the most popular events now back in full swing following the pandemic, is the (free to members) 'Lunch and Learn' held monthly at the Royal Canadian Legion branch #259 in Clearwater.
"I invite a variety of guest speakers to cover multiple topics the members might be interested in," explained Frizzle. "For example we had mayor Blackwell attend our recent luncheon and it was a really lively event. Lots of great questions for him and he brought great information to the group as well. Before that we had a local paramedic, Stuart Gibson, speak to us about sleep and ways to improve our sleeping habits. It was very interesting and he gave us some great ideas and information because as we all know, sleep is important to good health. We always have a lovely lunch and there were 60 seniors at our most recent events."
Membership is set at a "very low annual price of $15 per year" and with that any of the classes, events, luncheons are free for members, added Frizzle. The only exceptions would be if going to a specific theatre production in Kamloops, as an example, the cost of the ticket would be up to the members but the transportation via community transit is covered for members.
"We have such a variety of things taking place throughout the year," Frizzle said. "Such as the 'Sit and be fit' chair and lighter yoga classes offered by Sylvia Arduini which are also covered for paid members, the popular luncheons, computer training with our Cyber Senior teen instructors from Clearwater Secondary (CSS), the Writer's Club which actually produces published books that we sell for the society, seniors hikes and trips - we are always open to new ideas."
While speaking with the Times, Frizzle introduced the two Grade 11 students from Clearwater Secondary School, Trent Ross and Cadence Cisna, who were meeting with WGCSS member Esther Sellers for some after-school computer training. "We really enjoy working with the seniors - it's fun," said Cadence.
Frizzle said the program started in 2015,
"It's so great for our members. I remember when it first started and both the teens and the seniors were a little unsure. Now you see them interacting in the community like long-time friends, greeting each other at the grocery store, chatting away. As they move on after graduation there are always more teens interested in stepping up. It's really awesome and the seniors love learning from them. They form friendships."
The society collaborates with local organizations such as Yellowhead Community Services and receives funding from a number of sources such as the United Way and through the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) which is a federal grants and contributions program providing funding for projects that make a difference in the lives of seniors and in their communities.
"I work in partnership with Liane Culp the Recreation, Culture and Events Coordinator for the District of Clearwater doing some joint initiatives such as our Thanksgiving Waterfall tour with both of us contributing to the cost," Frizzle said. "It was a beautiful day, with a great group of seniors, although any age was welcome for that trip. Very memorable fall day in Wells Gray Park."
If you are interested in joining Wells Gray Country Seniors Society contact coordinator Frizzle at: 250-674-8185 or drop by the Seniors Room at Dutch Lake Community Centre during business hours to pick up information and learn more about upcoming events.
