Formerly Fulford Seniors
About Us
Welcome to the South Salt Spring Community Gathering Place (formerly Fulford Seniors), located in the annex at the south end of Fulford Hall on Salt Spring Island. Our mission is to create a welcoming, supportive space for individuals aged 50 and over to connect with one another, share experiences, and take part in enriching activities that promote physical, mental, and social well-being.
We offer a variety of programs designed to engage our members, including yoga classes, a writer’s group, luncheons, carpet bowling, and music nights. Whether you’re interested in learning something new or just enjoying time with friends, there’s always something to get involved in.
In addition to our social offerings, we are working to become a valuable resource hub for seniors, connecting our members to important health and wellness services, and offering support in navigating the healthcare system. We are always looking for ways to grow and expand, and we welcome ideas for new programs and services that will benefit our community.
Our History
In 1982, a group of South End Seniors met in the home of Walter & Betty Brigden to initiate the formation of Branch #170 of the BC Old Age Pensioners Organization (BCOAPO). Meetings were held in the homes of members, then when the basement of Fulford Hall became vacant the group requested the area for their use. The renovation which was accomplished with volunteer labour under the supervision of a certified builder. Subsequently, a New Horizons grant was awarded to complete the transformation to the Shaw room, entry lobby, kitchen, bathroom and storage area. This was a working group, raising money for various projects, including Sea Capers, Fulford Days and supplying and operating a pie stall. In the year 200 the group was the recipient of a bequest from Hedvig Andersen which made the addition of the Andersen room
possible.
With the demise of the BCOAPO at the end of 2025, the organization now known as Fulford Seniors applied to become a society under BC laws and is now registered under the name of South Salt Spring Community Gathering Place.
Over the years, our focus has grown to encompass the overall health, well-being, and connectedness of seniors within their communities. We are committed to creating a supportive and vibrant community where seniors can thrive, and together, we work to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met.
Check out the Salt Spring Archives for the full story:
Membership
Membership is open to all individuals 50 and over. Joining is a great way to stay connected with your community and enjoy our wide range of activities and events. Your membership helps support the South Salt Spring Community Gathering Place and ensures we can continue offering programs that bring people together.
Membership for 2026
Membership fees are now due for 2026.
The fee is $20 for the year.
Dues can be paid in the following ways:
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E-transfer to: fulfordseniors@gmail.com
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Cash or cheque: Provide in an envelope when you visit South Salt Spring Community Gathering Place
If your contact information has changed, please let us know so we can keep you updated on all our events and news.
Monthly Meetings
We hold monthly meetings on the last Wednesday of the month at 2 PM. Our meetings will often feature a speaker and, on occasion, a lunch will be provided for a small fee.
These meetings are an excellent way to stay updated on our activities, share ideas, and meet other members. Whether you’re new to the area or have been with us for years, the meetings offer a great opportunity to connect and stay active!
Meet our Board Members
Our Board is made up of passionate and dedicated individuals who care deeply about the South Salt Spring Community Gathering Place. They work together to guide our organization and shape its future, ensuring that we continue to grow and find new ways to connect and support each other.
Carol Walde
President
Valerie Short
Treasurer
Susan Astill
Secretary
Gladys Campbell
Past President
Geoff Martin
Maintenance
Victoria Woodman
Hall Liaison
Helga Bagnell
Rentals
Paul Way
Member at Large
Mary Ann McColl
Member at Large
Join Our Community Today!
For more information, membership details, or to get involved, reach out to us at fulfordseniors@gmail.com or visit our Contact Page to connect. We’d love to hear from you and welcome you to our vibrant community!
Ways to Support Us
There are many ways you can support the South Salt Spring Community Gathering Place (formerly Fulford Seniors) and help us keep our programs running smoothly:
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Save-a-Tape Program: Participate in the Save-a-Tape program at Country Grocer by dropping your receipts into Box #82. This simple step helps us raise funds for our activities and services.
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Donations: In addition to membership, we are always grateful for donations to help fund our programs, events, and ongoing community initiatives. Every contribution makes a difference in helping us grow and serve our members.
Funding & Grant Acknowledgments
We extend our sincerest appreciation to the organizations below, as their grants, funding, and programs support our ability to continue serving the Seniors of our community:
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Salt Spring Foundation
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Salt Spring Community Service
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Country Grocer' Save-A-Tape
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New Horizons for Seniors Program (Gov. of Canada)