Older Adult Programs (55+yrs)

Computer Programs

Computer Lab Drop In
Come to the Lab and Waylon will be there to provide an orientation for those of you new to computers and the internet or assist you to hone your tech skills further.
Mon 1:30-3:00 pm Sept 19-Dec 5
FREE with Thunderbird Membership. Closed Oct 10.

Computer Skills 101
A social environment where learning how to use a computer has never been easier or fun. The first class will determine the direction of the course. We will learn basic components of the Windows environment, basic text editing using Word, file management, customizing the computer and using Help for assistance. Repeats welcome!
Wed 10:00 am-12:00 pm Sept 21-Oct 26
$10/6 sessions

Internet 101
Take this course to help understand the Internet and be able to search for information with ease and efficiency. We will learn to identify parts of the screen, common attributes of websites, popular websites and to keep track of your favorite sites and where you have been. Repeats welcome.
Wed 1:00-3:00 pm Sept 21-Oct 26
$10/6 sessions

Digital Photo Editing
We will use Google’s free photo software, Picasa, to learn quick and easy editing, organizing, sharing, printing and backing up of your photos in this fun class.
Wed 10:00 am-12:00 pm Nov 2-Dec 7
$10/6 sessions

Email 101
Learn how to send, reply and forward messages, insert attachments such as letters and photos, keep track of your contats and calender and file your emails.
Wed 1:00-3:00 pm Nov 2-Dec 7
$10/6 sessions

Social Recreation

Tuesday Lunch, Social & Games
Lunch is served from 12:00-12:30 pm followed by social time. We play various table games in the Multi-Purpose Room as well as pool and table tennis in the Games Room. If you do not wish to join us for lunch you can still participate in the games portion for FREE 1:00-3:00pm.
Tue 12:00-3:00 pm Sept 20-Dec 6
$3/lunch

Games and Billiards
Come and play pool, foosball, table tennis or air hockey.
Tue 1:00-3:00 pm Sept 20-Dec 6
FREE with Thunderbird Membership.

Table Tennis
Thu 12:00-3:00 pm Sept 22-Dec 8
$0.50/member drop-in $1.00/non-member drop-in

Tea Time at Beulah Garden
We meet in the Bentall Building dining room, located at 3350 East 5th Avenue for a social gathering with coffee and snacks. There are occasional guest speakers with information for seniors as well as seasonal speacial events for you to enjoy. All seniors are welcome!
Thu 1:30-3:30 pm Sept 22-Dec 8
FREE

Educational

Mandarin Lessons - Intermediate
This program is open to those who have good listening comprehension with a minimum speaking ability in Mandarin. Students will learn conversation and story reading, as well as Chinese culture.
Wed 1:00-2:30 pm Sept 21-Dec 7
$30/10 sessions

Health and Wellness

Gentle Yoga
This workout is aimed at circulation, strengthening the body & calming the mind through simple meditation techniques linking breath to movement. This class will move slowly and gently. Suitable for any body type. No class on Oct 10.
Mon 1:30-2:45 pm Sept 19-Dec 5
$33/11 sessions $4 Drop In

Tai Chi
Tai Chi is an ancient form of meditative exercise which originated in China and is easily recognized by its slow, captivating movements. Originally, Tai Chi was developed as a martial art but it is now practiced by millions of people around the world to improve and maintain good health. Tai Chi represents a way of life, helping people to meet day to day challenges with energy whilst remaining calm and relaxed inside. Learn Tai Chi for good health, good exercise and self defense.
Sat 9:15-10:30 am Sept 24-Dec 3
$30/11 sessions

Healthy Heart Program
Thunderbird and the Simon Fraser Health Region are offering a cardiac prevention, rehabilitation and education program for people with cardiac risk factors, post heart attack and post cardiac intervention. A certified fitness instructor will work with seniors on a weekly basis. To register or for more info please call 604-412-6440.
Mon/Wed 8:30 am-11:30 am

Art

Mosaic Madness!
Get creative with glass mosaic tile. If you love the new mosaic mural in the community centre and wish you had come to the workshops, or if you did come to the workshops and now want to make something for yourself, then here’s your chance! During this program you will have the opportunity to create some of your own pieces. Some things you might decide to try are: Creating a picture in tile, a mosaic flower pot, mirror or garden art. During this 12 week program you will likely be able to create several pieces. No experience necessary. All supplies included.
Tue 1:30-3:00 pm Sept 20-Dec 6
$25/12 sessions

Open Studio Painting Class
Choose your own art project and receive lots of hands-on painting time and one-on-one attention! Enjoy valuable advice and feedback on your individual art projects in a positive & relaxed atmosphere. Benefit from rich info handouts on a variety of subjects that pertain to your artistic interests while developing technical skills & exploring your creativity. Instructor Chloe Ulis has a life-long background in the arts, a degree from Emily Carr, and is an expert painter with 15 yrs experience. Chloe is keen to bring out your style and creativity while giving support throughout your artistic process. General supplies included.
Tue 4:30-6:30 pm Sept 20-Dec 6
$35/11 sessions No class on Oct 4.

Thunderbird Then & Now - Digital Storytelling Workshop
With support from the City of Vancouver’s 125th Anniversary Grants Program, two artists will work with the community using digital technology to write short stories, record audio and edit images to create a short video. Participants will learn short story writing skills, photo editing, video/sound recording, video editing, and archive and post their stories online. FREE with Thunderbird Membership
Session I Thu 10:00 am-12:00 pm Sept 22-Oct 20
Session II Thu 10:00 am-12:00 pm Oct 27-Nov 24

Out Trips

Out trips will run rain or shine so please dress appropriately and pack a lunch. Space is limited. Registration is limited to 1 trip at a time. Pre-register with the office. Thunderbird membership is required. 9:30am-2:30pm $5/trip

Sept 29 Boulevard Casino
Have fun without breaking the bank on a trip to Boulevard Casino. You can play the penny slots before having lunch at one of the restaurants available.

Oct 13 Kilby Historical Site
The Kilby Historic site is the only reminder of the once thriving community of Harrison Mills. We will visit the 1906 General Store Museum and see products and artifacts of this era.

Oct 27 Dr Sun Yat Sen Gardens
The elements of a classical Chinese garden, includes rocks, water, plants and architectures. Come and enjoy the perfect balance of these four elements through this cultural experience.

Nov 10 Hastings Mill Store Museum
The Hastings Mill Store is thought to be the oldest
building in Vancouver. It was moved to its current
location in 1930, long after surviving the great fire of 1886. The museum is currently staffed by volunteer members of the Native Daughters of BC.

Nov 24 Mission Museum
The Mission Museum building served as the Canadian Bank of Commerce in 1907-1947 until it was moved and became a public library for the next 25 years. In 1972, the Mission Historical Society took it over to store and display its archives.

Dec 8 Britannia Mine Museum
Copper, zinc and gold were mined here a century ago and now this museum offers a look into the past through exhibits. Pan for gold and take home a little piece of history. Dress warm and wear comfoartable shoes for the steps to the chilly underground train.

Community Service

People’s Law School
Public Legal Education Events offers community groups, access to public legal education and information. Tonight the topic is Wills and Estates. The People’s Law School does not give public advice. If you need legal advice, you should contract a professional. Please register at the office for this free session.
Thu 7:00-9:00 pm Oct 13

Flu Clinic
Evergreen Community Health is offering a free flu clinic at Thudnerbird. It will run on a first come first serve basis and is open to all seniors. Please bring your care card with you. Limit translation will be available.
Thu 1:00-3:00 pm Nov 10

Skeena Terrace Programs

All programs listed in this section are only open to residents of Skeena Terrace High Rise. Programming is made possible through a partnership between the Thunderbird Neighbourhood Association and BC Housing. Free with Thunderbird Membership.

Monday Baking and Games
Explore the world of baking! Every Monday, we will gather together and try out different recipes for baking simple homemade recipes. A cookbook will be made at the end of the season. Bring your baking recipes to share!
Mon 12:30-2:30 pm Sept 19-Dec 5

Monday Creative Arts and Celebration
Join us every Monday afternoon to express your creativity
with art. We will also celebrate birthdays on the last
Monday of each month as well as celebrate special
occasions throught the season.
Mon 4:00-6:00 pm Sept 19-Dec 5

Tuesday Healthy Living
We will meet and discuss health issues over coffee and some snacks. Some weeks we will have casual health workshops and other weeks we will make some healthy snacks.
Tue 2:30-4:30 pm Sept 20-Dec 6

Wednesday Dinner and Entertainment
Dine in! Dinner is served 5:30-6:00pm. After dinner, stay for games or a movie and socialize with your neighbours.
Wed 5:30-8:00 pm Sept 21-Dec 7

Thursday Community Kitchen at Thunderbird
Each week residents of Beulah Garden and Skeena High Rise will join for a meal at Thunderbird Community Centre.
Thu 6:00-8:00 pm Sept 22-Dec 8

Chinese Seniors Group

Chinese Seniors Group was founded in 1991, and this Thunderbird affiliated group now has over 200 registered members. Tai Chi, seminars, workshops, potlucks, games, singing, dancing and outings are among the weekly activities to be enjoyed. Memberships with both the Chinese Seniors Group and Thunderbird Community Centre are required.
Chinese Seniors Group Membership $4
Thunderbird Seniors Membership $2

Senior’s Social Dance
Mon 12:00-3:00 pm $1/drop in

Chinese Speaking Seniors Social
Meet weekly to enjoy many fun and healthy activities such as Tai Chi exercise, potlucks, outings and discussions. FREE with Memberships.
Fri 9:30-11:30 am

All programs at Thunderbird Community Centre are subsidized and the fees are set at the lowest reasonable rates. As well, the Thunderbird Board of Directors has a policy to assist those living in the Thunderbird area who cannot afford the advertised price of specific programs or activities. Please contact Joe Wong or inquire at the front office for further subsidy information. The Subsidy Form is also available to download. This support is made possible by the fundraising efforts of many.