About Us
Our Mission
Our Mission: to provide the means by which Seniors may join together to enhance the lives of those aging on Salt Spring Island.
Salt Spring Island Seniors Centre began in 1987. The aim was to provide information to Seniors (+ 55 yrs.) on Salt Spring Island.
As times changed so did Seniors. In addition to information about health and lifestyle, and what’s on in town, we’ve created a clubhouse atmosphere where seniors play games like bridge, mahjong and chess, and share interests in painting and meditation, theatre and music. We also have a Drivers Program, weekly lunches and social gatherings.
We have nearly 500 members and everyone brings their own touch of joy and caring to our centre. You’ll find what you want here – or, let us help you make a place for what you want to do: lectures, dancing, yoga, the sky’s the limit!
Membership
Membership is $5.00 per annum at Seniors and we also rely on your generous donations to keep our building running and our programs lively. Donations over $20.00 are tax deductible.
Get to know your Board
Richard Dick – Member at Large
From Ft. Frances, Ontario (near Thunder Bay). Career in Policing/Law Enforcement (OPP). His 21 years on SSI has included volunteering at the Library and at Greenwoods.
JoAnn Gainor – Member at Large
Originally from New Hampshire, via Alberta. A teacher – high school English to Grade One; 20 years teaching Early Childhood Development at a community college in Ft. McMurray. Mostly proud, however, of her 6 grandchildren.
Neva Hohn – Member at Large
A familiar face at Seniors and at many volunteer organizations on the island. Originally from Saskatchewan, she was the Deputy Clerk for years in Wells, B.C. (near Barkerville).
Katharyn McNaughton – Secretary
‘When we moved to Salt Spring in 2015, I continued to work until December 2019 when I retired from my work as an educator and administrator. Currently, I have a small professional practice as a coach and facilitator. I am involved with Seniors as a Board member, and sing alto with the Lost Chords. I enjoy my participation in church activities, including singing in the choir. I love to read, take classes and attend as many of our Island’s cultural and arts events as possible.’
Paul Roberts – Treasurer
Born in Edmonton and grew up in the south Okanagan. A scientist by training and by nature (x-ray crystallography). Cambridge University, Max-Planck Institute in Germany, Ontario Ministry of Environment and then started his own management consulting business. He’s volunteered widely at LMH Auxiliary, Hospice and Greenwoods.
Alistair Sim – Member at Large
From Fife, Scotland. His career was in administration – Director at Burnaby General Hospital, Hospitality at the Empress Hotel and a Longshoreman.
Donna Smith – Past President
‘When I retired from teaching in the Okanagan, I moved to Salt Spring. Both my sisters and their families live here and it’s a great community. Volunteering at Seniors and The Lady Minto Thrift Shop are my main social activities. Although, I do love quilting and go to a weekly craft group. I like being busy and involved in the community.’
Paul Wolf – Member at Large
‘After a career in public service with several Federal agencies, I retired and worked as a consultant in Nunavut, Rwanda, Madagascar and Zambia. In 2015, we moved to Salt Spring to be closer to our family. I’m active in Seniors – as a board member, singing with the Lost Chords, and participating in Friday coffee conversations. In addition, I enjoy reading, swimming and gentle walks with our senior dog, Missy.’
Gail Neumann – Newsletter
‘