The Winkler Senior Centre is a vital part of the community, providing services and programs that cater to older adults and their families. With a strong focus on promoting wellness, education, and volunteerism, the Centre continues to be a place where seniors can connect, learn, and thrive. Barb Neufeld, Volunteer Coordinator, and Cathleen Bergen, Services for Seniors Resource Coordinator, highlight the many ways the Senior Centre supports the community.
Encouraging physical activity: Walking and wellness programs
One of the Centre’s popular programs is its weekly walking sessions, held every Thursday at the Meridian Exhibition Centre. “We meet at 9:00 AM, and anyone can join us. It’s a great way to stay active, and we also offer refreshments afterward,” says Bergen. These walking sessions offer a welcoming environment for seniors to stay physically active, while also encouraging social interaction and community involvement.
In addition to the walking sessions, the Centre is hosting a Staying Active Informational Event on Monday, January 20th, from 1:30 to 2:30 PM. This free event will feature Nolan Taylor Turnbull, a kinesiologist from C.W. Wiebe Medical Centre, who will provide valuable insights into staying active and healthy in later years.
Educational opportunities for seniors
The Winkler Senior Centre also places a strong emphasis on education. On Friday, January 31st, from 1:30 to 2:30 PM, the Centre will host a Zoom presentation titled "Do I Still Need This Medication?" The session will be held at the Buhler Active Living Centre and will focus on safe medication use, as well as essential questions to ask healthcare professionals to prevent medication-related harm. Bergen highlights the importance of these educational events, stating, “We want seniors to be informed and empowered to make the best choices for their health.”
As space is limited for this event, those interested in attending are encouraged to register by January 20th. Participants can join the event in person or via Zoom, providing flexibility for those who may prefer to attend from home.
2025 community calendar: A comprehensive guide for seniors
To help seniors stay organized and informed throughout the year, the Winkler Senior Centre has released its 2025 Community Calendar, which is now available for free at the Centre. This beautifully wire-bound calendar can be hung on the wall for easy reference and includes important dates, including the days the Senior Centre will be closed.
Bergen also points out that the calendar contains a page with frequently requested contact numbers and a few coupons, sponsored by local businesses. “People always love the coupons. It’s a great resource for staying connected and saving a little money,” she says.
Volunteering: a vital part of the Senior Centre's success
The Senior Centre relies heavily on volunteers to carry out many of its programs and services. Barb Neufeld oversees more than 70 volunteers who assist with everything from meal deliveries to kitchen work. “We have volunteers who help with meal programs, cleaning, yard work, and more. But we could always use a little more help,” says Neufeld.
There are currently several volunteer opportunities available, including driving for meal deliveries, helping in the kitchen, and providing friendly visiting services. Neufeld explains that volunteering at the Senior Centre is a rewarding experience for many, adding, “Volunteers often tell us that they feel a strong sense of community here, and it’s wonderful to see them make meaningful connections with the seniors they help.”
For those interested in volunteering, the time commitment is flexible. Neufeld notes, “For meal deliveries, it’s usually about 45 minutes to an hour. In the kitchen, it can range from a few hours, depending on the task. It’s a great way to give back without committing to an all-day job.”
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How to get involved
Whether you’re interested in attending events, volunteering, or simply learning more about the services available, the Winkler Senior Centre is ready to welcome you. For more information on programs, events, and volunteer opportunities, visit their website at www.winklerseniorcentre.com, or call 204-325-8964 to speak with a staff member.
As the Senior Centre continues to serve the local community, it remains an invaluable resource for seniors, providing not only the services and support they need but also opportunities for personal growth and connection.
With files from Ty Hildebrand