The Harrison Social Club is up and running for another season.
The weekly drop-in event at the Memorial Hall is more than just a chance to brush up on your Kanasta or Crib skills, though those play a key role in the weekly gathering. It’s a place to, as the name obviously states, socialize.
“It’s something for people to do,” says co-ordinator Jacquie Neville. “We need to get out and not be shut-ins!”
It’s an active group, often having 35 to 40 people per week. Neville stresses that it’s not just for seniors either. They would love to see locals of all ages come out to the Thursday morning club. They get together and play all sorts of games, and are always open to more games suggestions. There’s a good cup of coffee waiting for you and treats too.
For most who come, it’s an excuse to get out of the house and do something. For Agassiz resident Doris Rusnak, the social club is a sanity-saver.
It was 33 years ago, when Doris' husband Nick received brain surgery and radiation treatment.
"My husband went in, and a stranger walked out," shares Doris Rusnak. "I've been a caregiver ever since."
When the Nevilles heard about Nick’s love of the game ‘Manipulation’, they were more than willing to set up a table at the Harrison Social Club for the game. Now ‘Nick’s table’ runs every week. On the summer hiatus from the Harrison Social Club, the Nevilles organized for Nick’s table to run at Agassiz’ Friendship House in conjunction with their Tuesday games day.
For Rusnak, it gives her a break from the constant caregiver mode. She cannot say enough good things about those who take the time to play cards with Nick, especially the Nevilles.
“I would like to thank John and Jacquie Neville and all the people that play with him,” says Rusnak. It’s opened up other opportunities for Nick too, like floor curling and sit and be fit programs at Friendship House. All because good-hearted people took the time to socialize with someone outside their regular circle of friends.
The Harrison Social Club runs every Thursday morning in the Memorial Hall, from 9:30 a.m. until about noon. Neville says they have volunteers willing to pick up people if they need a ride too. Just call 796-3105 and they’ll see what they can do.