A simple yet touching tribute, these saplings embody the heart of
Kivi Park's Senior Health and Recreation Program (SHARP), a place for nurturing friendships and
celebrating life's every stage.
SHARP is a lifeline for Sudbury's seniors, combating isolation with a diverse range of physical
activities. As Jasmine Bureau, the park's coordinator, notes, "Senior isolation is a big thing.
We saw this as the perfect opportunity to make a difference."
From invigorating winter sports to serene summer paddles, SHARP provides a safe and welcoming
space for seniors aged 55 years and older to reconnect with their passions and each other. Rose
started as a participant and later became a volunteer. "When you arrive, it's like a whole new
city. Everybody talks to everybody, whether you know them or not," she shares.
Watch the video to see how Kivi Park's Senior Health and Recreation Program is providing a safe and welcoming
space for seniors.
A renewed sense of purpose
SHARP fosters a sense of belonging that transcends age and ability. "They (participants) will
walk you somewhere, help you find what you're looking for, and make you feel comfortable," Rose
assures. "Everybody is welcome. Nobody is left out."
This emphasis on inclusivity and support empowers seniors to step outside their comfort zones and
embrace new challenges.
Not surprisingly, at Kivi Park, I met seniors in the prime of health and mental abilities,
learning to play new instruments, embarking on eight-day treks, mastering the ukulele and even
planning solo international trips for the first time in their life.
Rediscovering joy, redefining age
Joanne, a retired nurse, and the life of the Kivi Park party, echoes this sentiment: "With these
programs, I felt like somebody is really looking out for us. I don't feel like a senior. I feel
like a young teenager again." This feeling of being part of a caring community resonates deeply
with participants.
SHARP empowers seniors to defy stereotypes and embrace an active, fulfilling lifestyle. "It's
never too late to do anything," says Rose. Whether it's conquering a challenging hike or trying
paddleboarding for the first time, participants prove that age is just a number.
The positive energy generated within SHARP ripples outwards, impacting families and the wider
community. "When my kids visit, this is where I take them," Rose proudly states. The program
fosters intergenerational connections and inspires active living.
Strengthening the community
Many SHARP participants are also active members of the Cycling Grannies, a group of women who
have been meeting for over 12 years to explore the city and its surroundings by bike. The
Grannies are more than just a cycling club; they're a close-knit group of friends who support
and encourage each other.
Each week, they go for a bike ride together, chatting and laughing along the way. They also meet
for coffee, sharing stories about their lives, travels, and the new things they're learning.
Hydro One's Energizing Life Community Fund plays a vital role in supporting SHARP, ensuring its
accessibility and enabling more seniors to experience the transformative power of community and
physical activity. With the fund's help, Kivi Park plans to buy new equipment, giving
more seniors the opportunity to be a part of this thriving community.
If you're a senior in Sudbury looking for connection, support, and the opportunity to embrace an
active lifestyle, here’s how you can get started.
