Strathcona County is welcoming older adults to a free Seniors’ Week celebration on Monday, June 1 in Sherwood Park, Alberta. The event kicks off a week of recognition for the contributions seniors make to the community.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Agora in the Community Centre at 401 Festival Lane will host a free BBQ, live music by the Live Music Circle, outdoor games, door prizes, and information booths. Doors open at 9:30 a.m.
The guest speaker is Dr. Haidong Liang, Executive Director of WESeniors, who holds a PhD in gerontology. The week marks the 40th anniversary of province-wide Seniors’ Week, which was inspired by the late Alice Modin of Strathcona County, who campaigned for a seniors’ day in the 1980s. Seniors’ Week has been recognized across Alberta since 1986.
Rural transportation was arranged for residents of Ardrossan, Josephburg, and South Cooking Lake, with registration closing May 29. The county estimates about 18% of its population is 65 or older.
The provincial government says this year’s theme is “40 Years of Connection, Contribution, and Community.” A provincial launch event was also held in Grande Prairie on June 1, but local celebrations in Sherwood Park highlight the area’s role as Seniors’ Week’s birthplace.
