How times have changed over 40 years

James Bay New Horizons

By Kim Dixon

Only a few days left and it will be March. They say time goes by quickly when you are busy, and we can attest to that here at James Bay New Horizons.

We are very excited to be celebrating our 40^th Anniversary this year. My, how times have changed over those 40 years! Once known for our social programs, we now offer over 30 programs, activities and services for our members.

People ask why we have a membership. The answer is simple. We like to offer programs at a reasonable cost. In order to do that, membership fees help to offset some of the day to day costs. We are able to offer some programs and services free of charge, such as our Friendship Teas (held once a month, giving newcomers, members and birthday celebrants the opportunity to come for cake and coffee and an opportunity to meet others), Friday Forum (where we offer guest speakers discussing topics such as Income Tax, Afternoons in Antarctica, Bee Keeping and much more). Some of the services we offer include one on one counselling services and program information for seniors wondering about Homecare, Housing, DVA benefits and our Outreach Program for isolated, frail seniors living in the community. One only has to look at the City of Victoria Active Living Guide to see the number of programs we offer at very reasonable costs.

We are pleased to have community partners such as City of Victoria, Beckley Farm Lodge, United Way, Province of British Columbia and the Federal New Horizons Grants that help support some programs.
Many thanks to the City of Victoria for making the curb cut in front of our building. This makes it so much safer for people using Handi Dart transportation to exit the bus and get safely onto the sidewalk without having to venture into traffic to get around the bus. If it had not been for the Scooter Safety workshop, this safety issue might not have been identified. People using the service knew about the hazards and once we were able to make City officials aware of them (we had them enter and exit the bus as a test) they were very understanding and quick to resolve the issue.

We have been able to start the year with a kick off to our 40^th anniversary. On February 12, we took 24 of our members to Tea at the Empress! What a lovely way to spend a winter afternoon. Many thanks to the Empress staff and management for making this a real treat and moment to remember.

On February 13, Scott Hargrove (an up and coming Formula Race car driver) came and gave Valentine roses to our members. We were very honored that this young man would personally take the time to come and spend time with our members and make them feel special.

Lots more events are coming up and we hope that you will take the opportunity to come and join us.