Did you know that February 15-21 is Random Acts of Kindness Week? According to the randomactsofkindness.org website, when we choose kindness, our brains light up with oxytocin, dopamine and CONNECTION (something we love to celebrate here at the Centre), confirming that kindness is not just good for the world, it’s good for us!
While kindness should be practiced daily, having a week to really focus on it reminds us of its importance, especially when there is so much negativity happening in the world that we simply cannot control. Making a personal decision to show compassion, respect, and empathy – regardless of the actions of others – leaves a positive impact and can change someone’s outlook for the better.
Here at the Centre, it is my hope that all our members are treated with kindness during every interaction with staff, volunteers and each other, and that the Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre is known as a place with a culture of caring and connection.
Today, and during Random Acts of Kindness Week, I encourage each of you to consider doing something little (or BIG) for someone else – make eye contact and smile when someone greets you, compliment a stranger, let someone else go first, hold a door open for the person behind you, or practice being a better listener. Whatever you choose to do, remember to stop and take a moment to experience how it makes you feel. Let your brain light up!
On the business side of things, January was a very busy month that saw us working behind-the-scenes on our organizational structure, Board governance, financial systems, year-end processes, a new 50/50 lottery (launching on February 1st) and lots of plans for our 40th Anniversary, all while continuing to offer activities, programs and meals for our members. Our Dance Committee hosted our first afternoon dance which was extremely well-received, and we launched the sale of our new red 40th Anniversary thermal tote bags, the perfect way to transport your frozen meal orders! You can purchase yours at the front desk for only $15 each or 2 for $27.
I am looking forward to having many opportunities in 2026 to come together and commemorate 40 years as a Society. We invite all our Lifetime Members to join us at our upcoming Friendship Tea on Thursday, February 19th so that we can celebrate them, offer them an opportunity to share stories, and acknowledge the roles they have played (and may still be playing) at the Centre.
While we will provide 2025 highlights and financials at the Annual General Meeting on March 25 -, 2026 at 1:30 pm, we are thrilled to share that we provided more than 30,000 frozen meals in 2025, an increase of 31% over the previous year. Kudos to our wonderful chefs, Emily, Jackie and Liz, and the many volunteers that support our Food Services program!
Lastly, if you are interested in governance please consider joining our Board of Directors. Nomination forms will be available at the front desk and must be submitted to our Board Secretary () by Friday, February 27th to ensure your name is included for consideration at the AGM.
