The Township of Schreiber celebrated a major milestone today with the grand opening of its newly renovated Senior Center—a project years in the making that promises to enhance opportunities for the community’s seniors.

Recreation Programmer Evan Cole and Senior Center Programmer Cathy Carlino had long envisioned the expanded space. “To see it actually take shape is pretty amazing,” Cole remarked, noting the increased room for new programs and future growth. The project faced early challenges, including budget constraints and difficulty securing a contractor, resulting in a three-month delay.

However, the partnership with the Adey Brothers proved invaluable. Their expertise and generosity were widely praised—they donated and installed flooring for the new pool room and contributed a state-of-the-art foot care chair. Hunter Thorne Electric also earned accolades for its dedicated electrical work, delivering high-quality results while staying within budget.

Councillor McGrath, council liaison to the senior committee, offered thanks to the committee members for their “vision and hard work,” specifically recognizing Chair Terry Thompson, Vice Chair Edith Howard, and others who played vital roles. Tammy Ibey, Director of Operations, was also commended for her oversight and leadership throughout the project.

Carlino, described as the “heart and soul” of the center, delivered an emotional address during the opening. She credited Evan Cole and Donna Mikeluk for securing the crucial Senior Active Living grant. She shared the center’s remarkable growth—from 130 members in 2019 to 486 last year—with a personal goal of reaching 500 members in 2025. She also thanked her committee for their steadfast support during her recent illness.

The ceremonial ribbon was cut—along with many slices of cake—and the community gathered to explore the bright, refreshed space. Seniors praised the well-thought-out layout, increased room, and natural light. Particular highlights included the expanded library, added storage, and the updated pool table area.

The new Senior Center stands as a testament to collaboration, perseverance, and community spirit, offering a vibrant and welcoming hub for Schreiber’s active senior population for years to come.