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Margaret Jones plays a hand of bridge last week at St. Mary Magdelene Anglican Church, home of Vital Seniors. (PHOTO BY ARIELLE GODBOUT)

When a dozen southeast Winnipeg seniors started a social club two decades ago, they had no idea how the group would blossom.

This month, Vital Seniors will celebrate its 20th anniversary, and current president Bill Regehr said the club is much more than a place to play bridge or line dance.

"We have a program that recognized shut-ins, and if you’re sick or in the hospital, you get visited," he said. "It becomes a support network."

"It’s one big family," said Gerry Brown, the club’s vice-president.

Brown, a charter member of Vital Seniors, said the founders started the club initially to fill the calendar.

"As I always joked, ‘to keep the old people off the street’," the Island Lakes resident said.

Since its beginning, Vital Seniors has operated out of St. Mary Magdalene Anglican Church at 3 St. Vital Rd.

With more than 250 members, the club boasts weekly activities such as Scrabble, bridge, line dancing and carpet bowling, as well as cooking classes, luncheons and catered monthly dinners.

Regehr said providing services to seniors helps them remain engaged in the community after retirement.

"Most people have lived very full and active lives," he said. "It would be a shame to drop off the edge when you reach a certain age."

He added being a member of the group also helps develop empathy for those who have limitations, due to illness or simply age.

"The fact that we recognize the needs and limitations of other people becomes a given," Regehr said.

"People give themselves permission to intrude into the lives of other people."

Brown added the club has developed a strong relationship with St. Mary Magdalene.

Chaplain Bob English say grace at the club’s luncheons and visits sick members. In addition, Vital Seniors works with the church to determine what the parish needs — re-upholstered furniture, or perhaps a dishwasher — and makes the purchase from its revenue, collected mainly through member dues.

About 25% of Vital Seniors’ membership, including Brown and Regehr, are part of the church’s congregation.

"It’s a happy marriage," Regehr said, noting the church doesn’t charge Vital Seniors for using its space.

The 20th anniversary celebration will be held Tues., Feb. 28 at the church, and will include food, a birthday cake, and commemoration of long-time members.

All are welcome to attend. Please contact Regehr at 295-3714 for more information.

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