Community Focus: Manitoba Filipino Seniors Group

Promoting well-being among both young and elderly members of the community while preserving Filipino culture is an important aspect of the Filipino Seniors Group of Winnipeg (FSGW).FSGW hosted the first Seniors Sports Fest last March, featuring popular games, including pool, darts, chess and Filipino Sungka.

The efforts promoted socialization, healthy living, and physical activity. The Filipino Seniors Group of Winnipeg Hall at 49 Euclid Avenue wishes to become the fitness hub for seniors and those who want to enjoy various sporting events.

As Aida Champagne, former president, current finance officer, and program coordinator, said, "Our goal is to provide indoor sports activities for the young and the old in a safe and healthy environment." She added, "We introduce recreational activities at FSGW hall that will be available in the future. The Manitoba Filipino Seniors Group is the Foundation of the senior group in the Northpoint Douglas neighbourhood."

Aida is inspired by the community looking for activities where seniors feel welcome, safe and affordable. The program includes beginner painting, crochet, ukulele, computer and gadget know-how, line dancing, and retro classes.

For seniors with mobility issues, Aida teaches chair dancing, which involves dancing in a chair. It's designed to provide a fun and accessible way for older adults to engage in movement and exercise, even if they have mobility issues or limitations. Chair dancing typically incorporates a combination of rhythmic movements, arm gestures, and leg movements that can be performed while seated comfortably. Other programs lined up are cultural shows featuring Kundiman and Harana, Filipino Seniors Got Talent, and many more.

Keeping seniors active promotes physical health, mental well-being, social engagement, independence, and overall quality of life.