Senior Sector Spotlight: Central Lions Seniors Association

“What it Means to be Central” - A Seniors Sector Spotlight on the Central Lions Seniors Association 

Written by: Breanne Harrison 

If one were to enter “central” into their online search engine, they would be posed with two definitions. The primary one refers to the center's physical location, and the secondary meaning defines something as being of utmost importance (essential, in other words). The Central Lions Recreation Centre prioritizes both, and the facility operates as a partnership between Central Lions Seniors Association (CLSA) and the City of Edmonton. 

Located in the centre of Edmonton, the building is home to CLSA by day, and the City of Edmonton by night and on weekends. This partnership is central to collaboration and fostering intergenerational perspectives. A unique combination of CLSA workers and city employees ensures that this complex is inviting and welcoming for all demographics. From the ramps in the hallways to the paint on the walls, this facility has prioritized Edmonton’s aging community since its beginning. 

Conceptualized on May 11th, 1964, the Lions Recreation Centre was “the first project of its kind on the continent”, as noted by Dr. Walter B. Hoover. With the funds of the Central Lions Club of Edmonton in their back pocket, the center’s development began in 1966. In the same year, the Senior Citizens Association was incorporated in Edmonton; the very first seniors association in the city. 

In 1979, “Central Lions” was added to the name. The Central Lions Senior Citizens Association began partnering with the City of Edmonton Community Services, allowing for access to grants and providing all daytime recreational and social programs at the centre. In 1993, the term “Citizens” was dropped from the name, and the CLSA board hired its first Executive Director in 2017. 

We had the privilege of conversing with Janice Pearson, the current Executive Director of CLSA, and learning about her experiences and goals within the organization. Pearson became CLSA’s Executive Director because of her mother’s indirect influence. “I accepted the position because it felt right, and it felt good to be helping people stay active,” she says. “My mom was a very active member of her senior’s association, and I heard all the fun things she was doing. It just felt right to be a part of all that.” 

Pearson has been family oriented since the beginning of her position, doing all she can to ensure that everyone who joins the pride of CLSA feels included and welcomed. “We try and provide programming for all who have a wide variety of interests and hobbies. Our focus is on mental and physical health in a social environment. CLSA offers between 200 – 250 activities each season. The activities range from art, drama, music, crafts, cards, to fitness and sports to languages, special interest talks, and dance.” 

Pearson’s efforts have clearly succeeded, as one member states: “CLSA fosters a sense of belonging and facilitates authentic engagement with others. Many members, like me, have developed important friendships through their involvement at Central Lions. My activities and the people I have met here continue to play a significant role in my life.” 

Pearson wants to do more than just listen. She wants to truly know her members and have fun with those who take pride in their involvement with CLSA. Once a month, she leaves her office and breathes in the smell of pigment ink as seniors daub their bingo cards to colour each number she calls out. Yes, Pearson herself is the caller for CLSA’s bingo. In an email, she writes: “I love the fun we have as a group. I have my regulars who are always there, people who have never played bingo before, the competitive ones that I get to gently heckle, and the talkative ones. They drink coffee, snack on cookies, and generally have a great time. This is one time each month where I come out of the office, have some great laughs, and get to know my members. When my job feels overwhelming, bingo reminds me why I work here and why I love it.” 

CLSA strives to make a genuine difference in the lives of older adults by actively listening to their needs. “We focus on making their experiences the best possible,” Pearson says. The members of CLSA smile brighter than the sun beaming through the windows. It is why the walls themselves feel warm to the touch. 

To find out more information and to stay updated about upcoming CLSA events, visit their website and/or subscribe to their newsletter! 

Website: www.centrallions.org 

Newsletter: https://www.centrallions.org/newsletter-1  

Come for the programs, stay for the people!