As the temperature drops and the crisp, cold weather arrives, it’s hard to ignore the arrival of December. As people rush about shopping for loved ones and preparing for the holiday season, Christmas music, twinkling lights, and colourful decorations start popping up everywhere you look – even here at the Centre.
We have some beautiful boxes of Christmas/holiday cards for sale (you can view a selection on the table in the hallway) and will be offering gift wrapping services by donation to help you get ready, all thanks to the generosity of Shoppers Drug Mart. Don’t need another candle or trinket? Consider asking your family and friends to support your active living in 2026 by making a gift deposit into your Membership Wallet. It’s easy and can be done from anywhere by phone or e-transfer.
In November we implemented e-transfers as an additional way for members to load their wallets and renew their memberships. Simply send funds to and include a note with your Membership Tag number (X123456) and either the word WALLET (to load your wallet) or the word MEMBERSHIP (to renew your membership). Funds will be automatically deposited to the Centre’s credit union account, and your record will be updated within 1-2 business days. If your financial institution requires a security question, please use SSAC as the answer.
Considering a year-end gift and don’t want to miss the December 31 tax deadline? Stop by the office or send me an email (). I will continue to monitor my inbox during the upcoming office closure and would be happy to assist you with your donation. You can also make your donation online by using this QR Code or visiting: www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/140943
Our office and kitchen will be closed for two weeks (starting after our Christmas Luncheon on December 19th and re-opening January 5th), so that our team can also enjoy the holidays with their loved ones; however, the Centre will host a drop-in for members who wish to come in from the cold to enjoy a complimentary lunch, treats, carols, activities and, of course, fellowship. Special thanks, once again, to the Sunshine Coast Rotary Club and their sponsors for their generous act of service. See Richard’s message for the schedule.
As of December 1st, our SeniorsGuest wi-fi will be password protected to discourage loitering outside our building after hours. You will find the password on our bulletin board near the dining room and in the monthly Echo.
December is truly a time for reflection, connection, and celebration. It’s a month that brings people together, whether through social gatherings with family and friends, or community events and special holiday festivities. It is also a time of gratitude.
As the year comes to an end, it is the perfect opportunity to express how grateful we are for
. . . Our Members. You bring purpose to what we do, and life to the Centre with your warmth, fellowship and active participation.
. . . Our Team. Our amazing staff (and contractors), board of directors, instructors, and volunteers who ensure things run smoothly, our facility and grounds are well maintained, and that there are plenty of delicious meals, activities and programs, and so much more, available for our members all year long.
. . . Our Donors. We are humbled by your generosity which helps us continue to meet the needs of our members and our community. Your support is more than just financial – it’s about shared values and making a positive impact together.
We are thrilled to announce that we have received a very generous six-figure gift from one of our members. To facilitate their gift, we worked together to ensure the Centre was positioned to accept gifts of securities.
By supporting the Centre with a gift of securities, a donor can eliminate the capital gains tax that they would have paid if they sold the securities and donated the proceeds. Securities can include stocks, mutual funds, and employee stock options. Please reach out to me if you would like to explore this gift option.
We are looking forward to the new year, which will bring exciting changes to our 50/50 Lottery and the opportunity to honour the past and inspire the future as we celebrate the Centre’s 40th Anniversary.
As we wrap up 2025, my wish for each of you is that you hold the best of the season in your heart and that the busyness of the season doesn’t overwhelm you, you take the time to cherish each special moment as it happens, you stay cozy and warm, and you are surrounded by those who bring you the greatest joy.
