Remembering our roots Standard Seniors Young at Heart Club

By John Godsman Times Contributor

On Dec. 7, 1979 at a dinner hosted by the Standard Lionettes Club for community seniors, Chas V. Madsen asked if anyone was interested in forming a senior citizen group. 

A majority of attendees approved, and they had their first meeting on Jan. 8, 1980 at the Standard Lions Hall. Esther Sundgaard suggested the club be known as Standard Seniors Young at Heart Club and the name was approved. 

The first board was elected with President Chas. V. Madsen, Vice President Elmer Jensen, Secretary Marie Grant and Evelyn Christensen, Treasurer Louie Sundgaard, and five directors.

That first-year membership consisted of about 80 members, paying $5 per year per member, with a minimum age limit of 55. The club became a society on Feb. 18, 1980.

The Standard Seniors Centre was built in 1982 and opened in 1983. Drop in coffee is available six days per week, from 7 to 11 a.m. The club holds a monthly potluck supper/business meeting, and there are special meals throughout the year, like a couple of barbecues and a Christmas party.

Health services provided include a foot clinic and the “man van” for prostrate cancer testing.

Current membership is 70, at a cost of $10 per member.

The centre is used for family gatherings throughout the year.