The Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) is making it easier and more affordable for families and individuals to participate in regular and more consistent activity programs.
Beginning Sept. 2, the SCRD will be introducing My Pass, a single card that provides Sunshine Coast residents access to all five recreational facilities, from Gibsons to Pender Harbour. The card offers increased access to programs and services including, all public swim and skate sessions, pond hockey, stick and puck, weight room, dryland and aquatic fitness programs, drop-in spin classes, and racquetball/squash court bookings. My Pass members are also entitled to free locker tokens at the Sechelt Aquatic Centre, free skate rentals and a free gym orientation session.
“In the coming months, having a My Pass will be similar to having a library card,” said SCRD recreation services manager Bruce Bauman. “It is the one access card you will require for practically everything at our facilities. We encourage the public to get their My Pass today.”
The new fees will help individuals and families select the most effective and flexible option. Adult memberships were $80 per month and are now only $51.19, and senior memberships are $43.61 per month. Memberships can be cancelled at any time after three months and there is an option to purchase 10 visit cards for further cost savings.
The SCRD is also making it easier for children and teens to participate in recreation activities by offering an annual My Pass membership for children and teens at only $99. If an adult or senior in a household has a current My Pass, the children or teen will receive an annual membership for only $39.
“Research has shown that when children and youth increase their daily physical activity, they decrease their chances of developing many diseases such as heart disease and type-2 diabetes and are generally healthier and happier for life,” added Bauman.
The SCRD’s recreation division offers a variety of drop-in programs and memberships for those looking for flexibility in their busy lives or who are seeking out more affordable recreation options.
“A great way to try something new before making a commitment is to sign up for a free Try It class,” he said. “A Try It class gives you the opportunity to see if you like it first before committing to registering for a series of classes.”
Families and individuals living on low income and wishing to participate in recreational programs and services can apply for the Leisure Inclusion for Everyone program.
“The SCRD has a key role to play in ensuring that people are engaging regularly in recreation activities,” said SCRD board chair Garry Nohr. “As we work to strengthen our families, it is important to understand the value of physical, social and cultural activities — quite simply, getting together and having some fun can reap huge rewards.”
For more information about My Pass, see www.scrd.ca/recreation or call 604-885-PLAY (7529).
