GWSA 2021-2022 Annual Report

City of Guelph Senior Services Report
Hello Guelph Wellington Seniors Association members, friends, and supporters.
Our doors are open! A year ago, I wrote my thoughts about year one in a pandemic, the things
we missed, and the silver linings along the way. This year, I write to you with a welcome back to
the Evergreen Seniors Community Centre and a thank you for persevering along with the GWSA
and the City of Guelph teams. It’s been wonderful to see the Evergreen back in action and to see
the faces, hear the voices, and feel the energy of our members and guests.
Like the year before, we have relied on the tireless work of the GWSA and City teams to
navigate an endless series of regulations, protocols, and procedures. While some of these actions
are now part of our day-to-day lives and other tasks seem like distant memories, it’s important to
acknowledge that we persevered, and we made it through. I thank everyone that stepped up to
support our return to regular activities. I’d especially like to thank the GWSA’s Executive Team
for all their efforts. They have tackled a very challenging year with tireless dedication, a
thoughtful approach, and a steadfast desire to support and improve the GWSA.
As in previous years, City staff continue to make both subtle and significant improvements to
the Evergreen. Most obvious is our revamped front desk and dining room counter set-ups. Both
look great and help maintain the updated health and safety expectations. You’ll also notice that
we’ve re-named our dining room “Bistro 683” and added some wonderful graphics from
designer Ellyn Lusis to liven up the facility. And finally, I’m happy to report that we will be
extending dining room hours of operation until 4pm beginning in the Fall.
We’ve also revamped our Snooker Room and replaced the worn-out felt and pockets on our
tables, replaced the lighting with energy efficient alternatives, and have added a few creature
comforts to make the space more enjoyable.
Less obvious, but equally important improvements around the Evergreen include a
replacement of our hot water systems, repairs to the Auditorium floor, replacement of
Auditorium lights, and a facility-wide enhancement of our Wi-Fi system to allow for better
access and speed. These improvements will make day-to-day use of the Evergreen more
enjoyable for all guests.
Finally, I’d like to acknowledge and say thank you to our Evergreen and GWSA Staff that
have moved on to new adventures and opportunities; this includes Tonie MacInnis (now acting-
Supervisor of Programs for Recreation) and Sheri-Lyn Roy who has moved into a permanent
role with the City of Guelph. I want to extend a special thank you to the GWSA Community
Support Services team. I have so much appreciation and gratitude for all the work you’ve done
and differences you’ve made in the lives of older adults in our community. I had the privilege of
working with this team throughout the pandemic and cannot say enough about their efforts to
support those in need in times of greatest need. Thank you so much.
The weather is getting warmer, the sun is shining longer, the Evergreen doors are open, and
my door is always open for you!
I’m looking forward to connecting with familiar faces and welcoming new ones over the next
year.
With gratitude,
Adam.
Adam Rutherford – Program Manager Evergreen Seniors Centre
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