Kivi Park’s winter seniors program thrives after accidental start

A Kivi Park seniors program, launched as a summer pilot four years ago, now thrives in winter with up to 195 weekly participants.

What began as a summer-focused initiative four years ago has unexpectedly blossomed into a vital weekly winter tradition for local seniors. The Seniors Program at Kivi Park was launched with modest ambitions but immediately surpassed all expectations of organizers.

“It was supposed to be run mostly during the summer – that was our main idea… And then we found out that we had a timeline to use the grants. So, we came up with the idea of the winter program, thinking that the program would have maybe 30 participants,” said Jasmine Bureau, the park’s event, program and volunteer coordinator.

“But even the first day we had over 60, and then now we’re averaging about 92 or 120, with our most popular day last year being 195 participants.”

Program shifts to pay-what-you-can model

After operating completely free for three years, the program has transitioned to a pay-what-you-can donation system due to the conclusion of its grant funding. Organizers emphasize that any contribution is acceptable to ensure continued access.

“Doesn’t matter what amount. It’s whatever they can afford to give,” said Bureau.

“With their donation, then they get access to free rentals, access to the trail and then a snack and a drink at the end.”

Fostering friendship, physical activity

The program runs every Tuesday and Friday at 1 p.m. until March 6, offering participants a choice of cross-country skiing, fat biking, hiking, urban poling or snowshoeing.

Park staff said that beyond the physical benefits, it has become a cornerstone for social connection.

“I remember the first day of the first program, these two ladies met, just waiting in line to register and now it’s the fourth year, and they still come every single day,” Bureau said.

“They’ve actually let me know that, like, now they make it like a day.”

She explained that before the program, the pair goes out for breakfast and then at noon they come to the park to get their equipment and go out.

“A lot of them (participants), they don’t have families or friends in the area – or at all. So, yeah, it gives our participants a place to come and socialize with people of their own age.”

Participants tout program’s benefits

Longtime attendees Walt Hawes and Tedd Gunn, who met through the program three years ago, are among its most vocal advocates. The told CTV News that the combination of outdoor exercise and camaraderie is the key to the program’s success.

“It gets you outside … And there’s no better exercise in walking or hiking in that,” said Gunn.

“Plus you get to meet people and after have a coffee stand around the fire. Can’t beat it.”

Hawes echoed Gunn’s sentiment and encouraged other seniors to participate.

“Put your coat on, your boots on and get over here. It’s great exercise. Great for your mind. Keep you moving,” he said.

No pre-registration is required and the program is open to all individuals aged 55 and over, with free rentals available for snowshoes, skis and fat bikes.

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