Abbotsford Social Activity Association

The Abbotsford Social Activity Association (ASAA) is a Canadian nonprofit organization based in Abbotsford, British Columbia, dedicated to providing social and recreational activities primarily for seniors, while welcoming adults of all ages. Established initially in the 1950s as the Abbotsford Old Age Pensioners hall, the association has evolved to offer a diverse range of programs promoting community engagement and wellness among older adults.

History

The organization originated when a parcel of land at the corner of Cyril Street and Essendene Avenue was bequeathed to serve as a hall for old age pensioners. An existing building was relocated to the site, and the Abbotsford Old Age Pensioners was formally incorporated on January 25, 1973. Financial support for constructing a new facility came largely from community fundraising efforts spearheaded by the Fraser Valley Fiddlers, who helped manage bingo events and other fundraisers, raising over $60,000 in one year.

Paul Anderson, notable as the president of the Abbotsford Grand Squares and long-time board member of the association, launched a summer square dance club, with proceeds benefiting the hall. Reflecting broader membership and activity changes, the organization was renamed the Abbotsford Seniors Association in 1992 and later rebranded as the Abbotsford Social Activity Association in 2012, coinciding with its role as home to the Suburban Swing dance group, which attracted younger members into the community.

Distinct from other seniors’ centres that operate with independent clubs, ASAA maintains a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with its affiliated clubs, ensuring members have a voice in the governance and management of the organization.

Activities and Programs

ASAA offers a wide variety of weekly activities tailored to promote social interaction, physical activity, and lifelong learning among its members. These programs include:

• Card games such as crib and bridge
• Carpet bowling
• Sing-a-long sessions
• Health awareness and exercise classes
• Friday night socials featuring live bands and dancing lessons
• Crafting sessions
• Computer classes at the Drop-In Center
• Various dance styles, including line dance, square dance, social dance, and ballroom dance
• Pool and billiards

The center encourages socializing and peer engagement in a welcoming environment, catering primarily to seniors but inclusive of middle-aged adults as well.

Membership and Access

Membership to the association is available for an annual fee of $25, which provides members with reduced fees for drop-in activities and voting rights at general meetings. Payments are accepted by cash or cheque. Services are offered in English, mainly provided 1:1 or in group settings at the association’s single location in Abbotsford.

Community Role

The Abbotsford Social Activity Association serves as a vital community hub for seniors, fostering social inclusion, health, and wellness through varied programming and member participation. It continues to welcome new members and volunteers, supporting a vibrant and active community for older adults in the Abbotsford region.

This article summarizes the key aspects of the Abbotsford Social Activity Association based on available public information.