2011-12-Annual-Report

My name is Tina. I am 56 years
old. A few months ago, after a
scary visit to my doctor, I was
advised that my blood pressure
was on the rise and, at times, was
spiking. After researching the
internet regarding the dangers
of high blood pressure, and on
doctor’s orders, I decided it was
time to make some changes in my
lifestyle.
TESTIMONIALS
I heard through neighbours that
Downsview Services for Seniors
provide classes to seniors 55 plus
(with age related conditions) at a
nearby Community Centre. I immediately checked out the program
and started attending the classes the following day.
On my first day I was immediately greeted and welcomed by
DSS staff. Within the first week of attending the classes I had
approximately 10 new friends and a whole new network of
acquaintances.
The instructors are very professional, knowledgeable, enthusiastic
and attentive to individual’s needs. There is line dancing on
Mondays with Joe; Yoga and Zumba on Tuesdays with Miriam;
Wednesdays and Thursdays walking club with Jody; and Latin
dancing with Juanita and fun workouts on Fridays with Michelle
who always tries to provide a challenge and encourages us to go
that “extra mile.”
I enjoy all the classes equally. Each class provides a different
challenge for me whether it’s a new dancing step, extra push-ups
or the will to pick up heavier weights.
This program not only provides excellent physical exercises for the
community, but it has an atmosphere that promotes the “social
aspect”. The recent success of our Christmas Party was testimonial
to the closeness of this group. We are now planning a Niagara
Falls/Casino trip for January 2012!!!
As stated previously, during my first week of attending the
program I made 10 new friends. Two months later... I now have
at least 40 new friends!!!!!!!!!!
This program is so much fun, I enjoy it immensely and attending
the classes has now become part of my day-to-day activities.
I would highly recommend it to anyone.
I would like to thank Jeff (Jeff Gruchy) and Meghan (Meghan
Lipp) for making this program so successful. Meghan is
always available to gather feedback, provide us with the latest
information on trips and activities and most and foremost is our
number one cheerleader. By the way, I am feeling so much better
now and my B/P IS GOING DOWN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hi my name is Leonard Taylor and I was asked
to write a few words about the Healthier
Living Center.
Well, I started attending class in January 2011
at the “hangar” where I learned about the
classes held at Northwood C.C. I now attend
these classes five days a week. There are
all types of classes from fitness, to zumba,
to line dancing to walking. The instructors
keep the class fun and non- stop for the full
hour. I have made many friends there. These
classes have helped me in so many ways from
health reasons to friendships and a great way
to spend my mornings since my retirement
in Sept 2010. Other services offered that I
have taken advantage of and recommend
highly is the Foot Care Clinic. The nurse does
that little extra to make you feel like you’re
walking on air when she is finished. I would
also like to thank the staff and coordinators
of the Healthier Living Center for all the work
they do and the trips provided – such as the
Niagara Falls Festival of Lights held Jan.19,
2012 and also the trip to the Dominican
coming in March 2012. My congratulations
to all the staff associated with Downsview
Services for Seniors. Well done!
Leonard T. – Participant in all classes.
Tina G.
Innovation Dignity Inclusion
7