History of the Centre:
New Horizons on Oak Street, 1980
In 1980, the New Horizons Drop-In Centre rented a 770 square foot building on Oak Street, to provide recreation and social programs for seniors in the Chemainus area.
Original House on Willow Street, 1986
In 1986, an empty house on Willow Street was purchased with monies obtained from…
- $10,000 Seniors Lottery grant
- a $35,000 B.C. Government grant
- $22,500 raised by Members
- $22,000 Municipal Loan (later forgiven)
The Main Hall addition was added and officially opened on June 11, 1987. The building was renamed the Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre and the non-profit society has grown to be financially self-sustaining.
In 1993, the original house was replaced with a 2 story addition.
The Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre, 2007
In 1997, the Main Hall was expanded to include a lounge area and the main kitchen, and a new decorative front was added to the building.
In 1998, the adjacent lot and house was purchase through the use of interest free loans, donations, and fundraising events. This additional investment property is currently used as a rental income property.
From 2002 – 2004, additional storage space was added upstairs, and the main floor area was expanded to include a multi-purpose room, a new wood workshop, and a patio area.
Today, the Chemainus 55+ Activity Centre utilizes its’ 8750 square feet to support active participation, to promote senior volunteerism, and to increase social inclusion, and community participation for its’ Members.
Murals:
In 2010, the first of a two-segment mural (Mural #41a) was completed on the south wall of the Centre. This segment depicts a family strolling to an outdoor community event.
In 2013, the approximately 60 ft x 18 ft, second segment (Mural #41b) was completed on the north wall of the Centre. This segment is set in the late 1800’s and depicts a lively outdoor gathering in Chemainus with Mount Brenton in the background.
The artist, Lurene Haines, volunteered to share her time and talents by painting this two-segment mural.
Further information on Mural #41 can be found at https:://www.muraltown.com
2026 Board of Directors:
(Effective December 7, 2025)
President — Terri Hegarty
Vice President —
3 Director Positions are up for Election at the 2026 AGM on Thursday, November 19…
- Vice President
- Volunteers Director
- Communications Director
If you are interested in putting your name forward for the above positions,
Please contact: president@chemainusseniors.ca