NEWS RELEASE
CITY OF ORILLIA
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The City of Orillia Seniors at Play program officially launched today at Rotary Place.
Seniors at Play is an initiative that facilitates the purchase of programming materials in order to offer more seniors-focused programming within the Orillia community. The program was made possible through the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Fund.
“The Seniors at Play program is proof that you’re never too old to play,” said Mayor Steve Clarke. “By offering a place where seniors in our community can come to socialize and take part in fun and engaging activities will certainly improve their overall health and wellbeing, which is something Council is committed to doing for all Orillia citizens. Do come out! Do have fun!”
In 2018, the City of Orillia was awarded $25,000 from the New Horizons for Seniors Fund to help initiate the Seniors at Play program. The program offers new activities such as shuffleboard, cards and board games, Xbox fitness and e-sports, seniors’ socials, and more. The grand opening provided members of the community an opportunity to view program demonstrations and participate in some of the activities offered at the Seniors at Play program.
The main objectives of Seniors at Play are to: prevent senior isolation and depression by making a conscious effort to stay socially active, promote physical activity and social engagement, and provide new opportunities to build relationships and eliminate barriers to participation in recreation activities.
“The Seniors at Play program provides seniors with a place to participate in fun activities and meet new people, while creating a safe space to participate and provide feedback on the programs," said Megan Visser, Recreation Program Supervisor.
"The programs are inspired by seniors and led by many devoted senior volunteers who have participated in the programs themselves. We continue to look for volunteers in order to run even more programs,” she added.
Seniors can enjoy any of the Seniors at Play programs by purchasing a punch card. Punch cards are available at the Orillia City Centre, Rotary Place concession or at any of the Seniors at Play socials.
A punch card can be purchased for $10 (plus HST) and can be used for 20 different activities/visits to the Seniors at Play drop-in programs. For more information regarding the Seniors at Play program or to volunteer, please contact Visser at [email protected] or 705-325-4786.
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