For the last six years, she has immensely enjoyed spending time with the seniors. Her responsibilities at the Centre have included setting the table, assisting the cook in food preparation, washing the dishes, and hanging out with the seniors. At every opportunity Fanny likes to engage in conversations. Memorable moments include festive occasions like holiday parties and birthday celebrations.

My name is Kelly and I chose to volunteer at this particular society because it stood out to me as a place of warmth and welcome. What I enjoy most about volunteering at this centre is the ability to work with a team of devoted and passionate staff members; who not only aid the residence but in addition, strive to make them laugh, smile, and feel special. As a volunteer I must say I have received more than I have given and I am very grateful for being a part of this society.

I found out about the centre on the internet just looking for places to volunteer. So I came in to check the place out and met with Donna. That was about two years ago. I am blessed to say I have enjoyed volunteering here with all the friendly faces. I enjoy working on the newsletter and seeing the excitement when you all see your photos in it. I am grateful for the experience and hope to continue.

Hi everyone my name is Cristina Borjas. I am 19 years old. I want to thank you for allowing me to volunteer here. I am going to be taking my home care aide program in September 2011 at Douglas College. From the experience I want to be able to learn a lot for the near future.

My experience at renfrew-collingwood seniors' society was absolutely remarkable. Not only did I develop interpersonal skills but also I had the privilege working with the whole awesome staff in the centre. As I reminisced the days that i have been participating in numerous activities together with the seniors, I remember all those priceless smiles painted on their faces that made me realized how fortunate I am witnessing their simple happiness.One of my unforgettable memories was when everyone were singing and dancing together with the wonderful older generations that always turn out the crowd flabbergasted. It has been truly a great pleasure that I will definitely be delighted of...Again, thank you for the opportunity and more power RCSS!

I came to Renfrew Collingwood Seniors Society in September for a nine week practicum as a part of the Community Social Service Worker Program at Douglas College. I can't believe how fast time flies, especially when your having fun with good friends! I was immediately welcomed into the centre's community by the staff and members from day one. I am thankful for the chance to have learned from the knowledgeable, experienced staff about working in a centre with seniors. The seniors have become close friends over the past few months, and I am thankful for all that they have taught me. The centre not only takes seniors to heart, it also take the whole community to heart by providing students with the opportunity to learn on site. Thank you to everyone at Renfrew Collingwood Seniors Society for giving me the opportunity to be a part of your community! I have enjoyed getting to know everyone and look forward to seeing you all again in the future.

Why are we here?

We are all UBC students who are studying within the department of Human Kinetics. The UBC school of Human Kinetics focuses mainly on the human body, as well as its relation to physical culture and health. We are here at Renfrew Collingwood as a part of one of our student created and student lead courses. For this particular course, we are interested in exploring different populations and their experiences of health. A component of this course includes hands-on related community service and we are thrilled to be placed here at Renfrew Collingwood to learn more about what this center has to offer. We hope to get to know all of you over the next four months and look forward to helping out in any way we can.

Aron Koel is finishing his last year of Human Kinetics at UBC. He enjoys studying the human body and learning how muscles work. Aron also has an interest in astronomy and a passion for the ocean. Some nights he gazes at the stars and planets through his telescope and wonders why we are all here? Other days he swims in the sea looking to play with friendly seals and dolphins.

Dylan Sparks is currently studying Human Kinetics at UBC. He co-founded a Nature Awareness and Wilderness Living School in Vancouver called Eagle Awareness School. Here, he inspires children 6-12 years of age to play outside, listen to the birds, find some tasty plants to eat and much more. Some of his passions are birding, running, going on survival trips and telling stories.

Kelcey Bland is starting her 3rd year in the faculty of Human Kinetics. She entered this program with the intention of learning more about the human body and a broad range of issues regarding health and well being. Before becoming a HK student at UBC, Kelcey trained professionally in ballet and spent many years traveling to places across Canada, and even to Japan, to train and perform dance. Other interests of hers include volunteering with Girl Guides of Canada, sitting on the executive council of her sorority, reading, writing and baking.

Monica Wilkins. I enjoy meeting new people. I am dedicated to the promotion of healthy living. I love being outdoors and the mild weather of Vancouver makes that easy. I also own a black and white cat named Sox who is very funny.