Shining the spotlight on seniors and their contributions to the communities we live in is what seniors week is all about.
Honouring their wisdom and experience.
This year, seniors week in B.C. takes place from June 1 to 7, and will be celebrated in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows with a multitude of special events and festivities.
Maria Perretta, executive director of the Ridge Meadows Seniors Society, noted seniors are the heart of both communities.
“This national seniors week is our opportunity to honour older adults, strengthen community connection, and celebrate the essential role seniors play in shaping a vibrant and inclusive Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows,” said Perretta.
“I personally love seniors week and look forward every year to watch older adults light up, whether the spotlight is on them or they are cheering from the sidelines. Its not about celebrating what they used to do or who they used to be, it’s about who they are right now and how they are choosing to embrace joy in their lives,” she added.
Ridge Meadows Seniors Society events coordinator Anita Bettesworth has planned a special week for seniors to celebrate.
Fit for Life Day will take place from 10 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, June 2, at the Maple Ridge Seniors Activity Centre, 12150 224 St., Maple Ridge.
This year there is a special beach-themed twist.
“Remember sports day as a kid, this is equally as fun,” said Perretta.
Those aged 55 and older are welcome to join others in friendly competition as they complete games like an obstacle course, target games, and much more.
The two-hour event is free for anyone who would like to participate in the games and it comes with a free lunch.
It is a great opportunity to meet new people. And, there will be an awards ceremony at the end, Perretta noted, asking people to RSVP by calling 604-467-4993.
Across town, homemade strawberry shortcake and tea will be served at the annual Strawberry Tea at the Pitt Meadows Seniors Activity Centre, at 19065 119B Ave. a little later in the week.
This event will be taking place from 2 to 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 4.
Tickets are on sale for $7 and, in addition to treats, there will also be entertainment.
Then, to wrap up the festivities, the annual Secure Document Shred-a-thon fundraiser will be taking place from 9 a.m. until noon on Saturday, June 13, in the parking lot at the Maple Ridge Seniors Activity Centre.
A minimum donation of $10 per plastic grocery bag of paper, and $25 for filled bankers or copy boxes.
The event is rain or shine and by cash donation only. Onsite shredding is being provided by RecordXpress.
All funds raised will be going to the Ridge Meadows Seniors Society.
also in honour of seniors week, the Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Katzie, Seniors Network is partnering with the Maple Ridge Public Library to host a classic high tea party with the Silvertones Choir.
It will be an afternoon of inspirational music, tea, and treats.
Joanne Leginus, director of administration and services with Community Services – which has been an active partner with the Seniors Network since its inception – said, for many seniors, being acknowledged by their community is deeply meaningful.
“It reminds them that they are still seen, valued, and an important part of community life — not forgotten or simply existing on the sidelines,” she explained.
Leginus noted that she has witnessed through her work, seniors who sometimes express through their words or sometimes tears, how much it means to feel cared for, included, and appreciated. Those moments, she said, are powerful reminders that human connection matters.
“Feeling valued and needed has a direct impact on a person’s emotional, mental, and even physical well-being. Celebrating seniors week helps foster that sense of belonging and reminds our seniors that they continue to matter greatly to all of us,” Leginus added.
The high tea will be taking place from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, on the second floor of the library, at 22470 Dewdney Trunk Rd.
Registration is not required and everyone is welcome to attend.
In addition to the high tea, Community Services will be holding some special events of its own within several of its senior-serving programs.
The EnGage Meadows program will be offering special activities for participants on Monday and Tuesday, June 1 and 2.
And, the seniors party bus program will be hosting a barbecue, as part of an inter-generational gathering between seniors and Embers, a program of the Girl Guides of Canada for 7- and 8-year-olds.
Leginus noted they are bringing the younger and older generations together to, “connect, share stories, and build community.”
“By celebrating seniors week, we come together as a community to recognize the value, dignity, and importance of seniors in our lives,” said Leginus.
“These celebrations help remind people of all ages and generations that seniors continue to play a vital role in our families, neighbourhoods, and communities. They strengthen connection, reduce isolation, and create opportunities for gratitude and understanding.”