October 29, 2025 – The meeting opened with the call to order, followed by the singing of O Canada and a moment of silence in remembrance of members who passed away this year. The quorum of voting members was confirmed.

The current Board of Directors was introduced, with one position for Director-at-Large remaining vacant. Ratification by the membership was required for Jeff Weeks, who had recently been appointed to the Board to fill another Director-at-Large vacancy. Jeff spoke briefly about himself and was unanimously ratified by the membership.

Executive:

President: Richard Ward
Vice President: Mark Garland
Treasurer: Alison Kowalewski
Secretary: Val Galat

Directors at Large (7):

Jay Alexov
André Casaubon
Mark Patterson
Gail Riddell
Birgit Stefani
Jeff Weeks
One position vacant

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

President Richard Ward outlined the Centre’s main sources of income: membership and activity fees, food sales (both in-house and frozen entrées), rental income, grants, and donations. He emphasized that donations have been essential in meeting financial needs and expressed deep gratitude to all donors for their generosity.

The Affordable Lunch Program continues to be a tremendous success, helping the Centre maintain low meal prices even with the addition of a second chef, Jackie. However, success brings challenges — with over 2,100 members, including 1,700 active participants, the demand on kitchen services and physical space throughout the building has grown considerably. A Space Committee is actively exploring both short- and long-term solutions to address these capacity issues.

During the summer, the Board decided to hire an Executive Director, despite the potential for a budget deficit in the coming year. The Centre’s strong financial position allows it to absorb a deficit year if necessary. The Board was delighted to welcome Vicki Raw as the first ever Executive Director, whose management experience and fundraising expertise are expected to strengthen the organization’s operations and efficiency moving forward.

The Sunshine Coast Seniors Online 50/50 Draw will conclude with its final draw on December 31st. It will be succeeded by the new BC Seniors Online 50/50, also operated by SSAC volunteers. This expanded initiative will include partner Seniors Centres across British Columbia. Each participating Centre will have a handheld ticket-selling device and online sales link, allowing proceeds to be tracked individually.

At the end of each draw, the jackpot will be distributed as follows:

50% to the winner, 30% to participating Centres, 10% to Ascend Fundraising Solutions (service provider), 5% for operating expenses, 5% to SSAC as an administration fee.

Each Centre will receive funds equivalent to 30% of their total sales. While the program will start with a few Centres, it is expected to grow as more Centres recognize the financial benefits of participation.

TREASURER’S REPORT

Treasurer Alison Kowalewski presented a conservative deficit budget for 2026, projecting –$82,715. She and President Ward expressed confidence that the deficit will likely be reduced once the new Executive Director is fully in place and operational efficiencies are realized and her fund raising campaign is underway.

A lively discussion followed, including a suggestion to increase membership fees to $50 to offset the projected deficit. However, both Alison and Richard reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to keeping membership, activity, and meal prices as affordable as possible.

After discussion, the motion to approve the 2026 budget was passed unanimously.

Meeting adjourned.