If you think that seniors slow down as they get older, you haven't been to the Therapeutic Activation Program for Seniors. I have just reviewed the schedule of activities for July and wish there was a spot for me on the bus. July will be full of trips around the valley and also to Nelson.

On July 20, our seniors will host a luncheon party for Judy and Barry Freeman, who have been volunteering every Tuesday afternoon teaching Tai Chi for many years. They also share their skills in renovations, drafting, income tax returns and advocacy. Thank you, Judy and Barry; you are truly part of the team.

The wellness clinic will be July 26 and 27 and the monthly nursing foot care clinic will be July 29. We are thrilled that a new volunteer has hairdressing skills and is sharing these with our TAPS members.

Deanna Kepke, who works with Jill Fehr as our activity co-ordinator, is working hard developing a program that will meet the needs of seniors to keep them socially connected and active. The programs she is developing will ensure that our seniors are physically, emotionally, mentally, socially and spiritually involved. In 2007, the World Health Organization addressed the issue of social connectedness for seniors and made these recommendations to enhance social participation: accessible transportation, affordable activities, increased range of opportunities, awareness of activities and events, encouragement to participate, and integration of generations and cultures. Many new activities are planned for the fall and community support will be necessary for them to be successful. We welcome volunteers, suggestions and donations.

Watch for new dining room furniture at TAPS. We have been fortunate to have received a grant from New Horizons for Seniors and the government of Canada to purchase chairs with arms and round tables.

Another big thank you to the Krafty Kronys, Beta Sigma Phi ladies and other volunteers who performed so well at their big fashion show June 6 and also twice this past month at TAPS. The show got better each time we saw it.

Thank you to our supportive community, including the Advance, which gives us this space each month to help us stay connected to you.

Terry Nowak is an outreach worker with the Therapeutic Activation Program for Seniors.