Pembina Active Living (55+) annually hosts three main events at the beginning of each programming season. At the end of August, the Membership Drive & Picnic kicks off our programming year; our Christmas Gathering provides a social opportunity to celebrate the Holiday season and register for Winter programs and our “Zing into Spring” happens in March, another seasonal celebration and opportunity to register for Spring programs.
Membership Drive & Picnic
Every year since 2011, PAL has hosted a community picnic and membership drive at the site of the St Norbert Farmer’s Market in August. A theme is chosen for each event; at the first picnic in 2011, attended by about 200 people, the theme was Mexican, complete with entertainer Pepe Cortez who had the crowd up and dancing.
These events served the community in a number of ways. They provided a venue to bring together those interested in PAL membership and programming they also raised awareness of the fact that a vibrant seniors’ organization was operating in the community. The events were intergenerational and open to the community at large, providing entertainment, display booths, vendors, membership and registration opportunities.
As a result of these events and the variety of programs that are offered for seniors, awareness about Pembina Active Living has grown and with it so has membership.
Zing Into Spring
March 2013 marked our 3rd Annual Spring Event. With the onset of spring and the excitement of longer days and warmer weather, it is the perfect time for a gathering of friends and a great opportunity to introduce new classes for the spring programming session!
Prior events have featured exhibits by some of our long-standing programs including the Still Bloomin’ Gardening Club and Watercolour Art. Program demonstrations offer curious participants an opportunity to catch a glimpse into what to expect in a program of interest. Past demonstrations have included: Older Adult Weight Training, Ballroom Dance, Meditation, Zumba Gold and Urban Poling.
With an interesting array of Player’s Choice packages and 50/50 draw, all donated by generous members and local businesses, there is always a great chance of taking home a nice prize.
As well as program registrations, Zing into Spring is also a great opportunity to purchase a Pembina Active Living (55+) membership for yourself or a friend. Current members can pick up their Spring newsletter at this time.
Christmas Gathering
Christmas gatherings are becoming a tradition with PAL members. For the past three years, we’ve had very enjoyable afternoons with participation growing each year.
Presentations such as: spring roll making, “wreaths for all seasons” and creating table centre pieces, have become yearly offerings.
Our Christmas gatherings have featured displays of Watercolour Art (by PAL program participants) and demonstrations of new programs.
Originally designed to provide a registration opportunity for the Winter session, the Christmas gathering has become so much more – a time for holiday fun, sharing and laughter for the members of Pembina Active Living (55+).