New workshops for seniors focused on improving mobility, strength and injury prevention will be offered by the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce, thanks to a provincial grant.
The YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce issued a news release to announce it received $25,000 from the Ontario government’s Seniors Community Grant Program to support the new workshops for older adults.
The Seniors Community Grant Program supports initiatives that help older adults live independently, remain socially connected, and continue contributing to their communities.
“The funding will support the purchase of equipment and resources essential for delivering high-quality programs. This includes an innovative interactive game system designed to promote agility and fun, as well as items to enhance accessibility and comfort during group events,” a release from the YMCA explains. “The YMCA will also invest in games, social supplies, and more to support engaging and inclusive gatherings.”
YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce Manager of Health, Fitness and Aquatics Brandon Downing says a new interactive screen and reaction light pods are among the new equipment which well help support seniors’ programming.
“And another piece I’m excited about is we’re going to be able to bring in speakers as well, just to be able to talk with the seniors and present about topics that are important to them,” Downing explains.
He says the new workshops for older adults will be launched in September at the YMCA. More details will follow about the different speakers and events.
“We are so grateful to the Government of Ontario and to MPP Paul Vickers for their support,” says YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce Manager of Fund Development April McMillan. “This funding allows us to enhance programming that helps seniors stay active, build connections, and continue to thrive. These opportunities aren’t just beneficial, they’re essential to aging well, especially for those in rural or underserved areas.”
Vickers says in a statement: ““The YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce has a proven track record of supporting seniors in our community with programming to maintain an active lifestyle. I look forward to seeing the difference our local YMCA will make with this funding.”
The YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce is one of three local organizations selected to receive funding through this round of the Seniors Community Grant Program, alongside the Town of Hanover and the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation Housing Department.