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
Elena Dunn – Board Chair
Born in Ontario, Elena has lived and worked in Sault Ste. Marie, Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria and now Salt Spring Island primarily in marketing and research for the newspaper industry. Now retired, she can usually be found with a book in her hands exploring her passion for history, literature and biography. She has rediscovered fitness, taking advantage of Salt Spring’s glorious outdoors with hikes up the 100 Hills area where she lives and when weather makes that difficult, she wears out the carpet under her elliptical machine.
Kathryn 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.
Gail Neumann – Newsletter
‘I arrived on Salt Spring, from Saturna Island, in 2000. Many former elementary students here remember me as their friendly office administrator. I have been a contributing writer to local publications since the late 1990’s and I continue to write daily. I am active in church and para-church activities, including being a mentor to young moms, and supporting a camping association. In my spare time I enjoy hiking, swimming, and reading.‘
Amber Olgilvie – Director
(resigned June 2025)