Welcome to the final edition of The ECHO for 2025! As we look back on an extraordinary year, we have so much to celebrate together. This has been a year of growth, progress, and exciting new beginnings for the Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre. One of our most significant milestones was the shift from our long- standing operating board management system to a new governance model, made possible by welcoming our very first Executive Director, Vicki Raw, who began on September 29th. In just a short time, Vicki has strengthened our operations, increased our efficiency, and introduced new procedures that have greatly improved financial security. For instance, members can now conveniently e-transfer payments for memberships and wallet deposits, a small change that will make a big difference. Vicki also brings with her a heartfelt belief that our people are our greatest asset. She has already begun reviewing staff roles and remuneration to ensure our team is valued, supported, and set up for success. Her leadership is already making a meaningful impact, and we are delighted to have her at the helm.
A NEW CHAPTER FOR THE 50/50 LOTTERY
December marks the final draw of the Sunshine Coast Seniors Online 50/50, which will make way for the exciting new BC Seniors Online 50/50 launching in February. While the SSAC will continue to run the lottery, and it will still be located at SeniorsLottery.ca, we will be joined by four partner seniors’ centres from around the province: Mackenzie, Campbell River, Oliver, and Gibsons. These centres will sell tickets on-site with handheld devices, and online ticket buyers will be able to choose which of our five centres their purchase supports. Each month, all five participating centres will receive 30% of their combined in-house and online ticket sales, funds that will directly support essential affordable meal programs and activity services for seniors at our centres. Not only will this new partnership allow us to help more seniors across British Columbia, but it will also make the monthly jackpot bigger! The hope is that in 2026 we will grow as more seniors’ centres around the province are attracted by the success of our partners. There will be no draw in January, so let’s make our December 50/50 a grand finale to remember. Tickets would make wonderful stocking stuffers, and the winning draw will take place during our New Year’s Eve Dance. Then get ready for the exciting launch of the BC Seniors 50/50 on February 1st!
CHRISTMAS CLOSURE DROP-IN: A WARM WELCOME FOR ALL
When I became President in 2023, it saddened me that we had to close our office and kitchen over Christmas due to essential staff holidays. To keep the Centre welcoming and open, I decided to host afternoon drop-in gatherings in the lunchroom, complete with complimentary tea, coffee, treats, carols, and good company. This simple idea grew into something truly heartwarming thanks to Tanya Hall of the Sunshine Coast Rotary Club, who eagerly stepped in to help. She rallied Rotary volunteers, added crafts and activities, more food and ensured no one need spend the season alone. I’m thrilled to share that Tanya and the Sunshine Coast Rotary Club will once again host six wonderful afternoons of holiday drop-in, generously supported by Paul & Kathy of Paul’s Painting Place and Dr. Paul & Sarah Dhillon.
Join us in the lunchroom from noon to 3:00 pm on:
- Monday, December 22 – Wednesday, December 24
- Monday, December 29 – Wednesday, December 31
Enjoy seasonal music, great company, crafts, treats, and a complimentary light lunch. A huge thank-you to the Rotary volunteers who make this possible. If you want to join us for some festive cheer, you’ll be warmly welcomed.
CELEBRATE 40 YEARS OF THE SSAC!
The Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre Society was founded on May 16, 1986, which means 2026 is our 40th anniversary! We’ll be celebrating this milestone all year long, culminating in a very special celebration on May 16th, our official birthday. Expect a full calendar of activities, dinners, dances, receptions, and special 40th-anniversary merchandise. January’s edition of The ECHO will share details so you can mark your calendars and join in the fun.
As we close out 2025, we invite you to come in, connect, laugh, and enjoy the warmth and vibrancy of our Centre. Here’s to a joyful holiday season and a bright, prosperous New Year ahead! We look forward to celebrating 2026 with you. .
