Town of Pelham Recognized as an Age-Friendly Community by Province of Ontario

Pelham, ON – The Town of Pelham has been recognized with an Age-Friendly Communities Award, celebrating its ongoing commitment to creating inclusive spaces and programs that support older adults. Town representatives received the award at the Ontario Age-Friendly Community Recognition Ceremony on January 18, 2026. The event was hosted by the Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility in Toronto.

Pelham was one of 69 municipalities across Ontario recognized for their achievements in building age-friendly communities. These communities were celebrated for fostering inclusive physical and social environments that support older adults in staying active, connected, and engaged. In Pelham, the Meridian Community Centre, a designated Seniors Active Living Centre, plays a central role in supporting older adults. The Centre offers a wide range of fitness programs, seminars, workshops, and social opportunities designed specifically for seniors in the community.

“It’s exciting to see recognition for the work being done right here in Pelham,” said Vickie vanRavenswaay, Direction of Recreation, Culture and Wellness. “There’s something really special about the team and the space at the Meridian Community Centre. Together, the facility and staff support seniors in staying active, building connections, and feeling part of a strong, caring community. That makes this work incredibly rewarding.”

With the support of the Pelham Seniors Advisory Committee, a group of dedicated community volunteers, the Town continues to enhance and expand seniors programming. In 2024, Pelham further demonstrated its commitment by hiring a dedicated Seniors and Community Services Programmer to lead and grow programming opportunities. From popular programs such as Learn to Play Mahjong and indoor bocce ball, to an ongoing seminar series, seniors in Pelham have a variety of opportunities to connect, learn, and stay active. Pelham’s seniors can also stay connected to the ongoing programs and new initiatives with the monthly Pelham Seniors Newsletter.

“Creating unique programs and workshops for seniors is one of my favourite parts of the job,” said Katie Kilbreath, Seniors and Community Services Programmer for the Town of Pelham. “Hearing how much people enjoy them is a great motivation to keep finding new opportunities that will provide meaningful experiences for Pelham’s seniors.”