When Richard Ward became president of the Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre just over two years ago, he brought with him more than leadership — he brought joy.
“I believe a job should be done well and done right,” he says, “but you’ve got to have a laugh while you’re doing it.”
Today, that sense of warmth, purpose and connection permeates every corner of the centre. From the kitchen serving up hot, hearty meals, to the volunteers greeting guests with a smile, the centre has become what Ward proudly calls “a home away from home” for its 2,000 members.
But behind the laughter and community spirit lies a serious mission: tackling food insecurity and social isolation among local seniors.
“Too many seniors are living on fixed incomes while food prices soar,” Ward explains.
In response, the centre launched its Affordable Lunch Program, keeping meals at $10 to $12, and frozen entrees as low as $6. The initiative is powered in part by generous member donations — but as demand grows, so does the need for funding.
That’s where innovation steps in. In 2025, Ward spearheaded the launch of the Sunshine Coast Seniors online 50/50 lottery. Modelled on the beloved tradition of sports raffles, the monthly draw not only gives participants the chance to win big, but also raises critical funds to support meal programs and expand accessible transportation options for those who can’t easily leave their homes.
“The money goes straight back into food services — hiring chefs, producing more meals, and hopefully, purchasing a wheelchair-accessible van,” Ward shares. “Everybody deserves a decent meal and the chance to connect with others.”
What makes this story truly extraordinary is how much is accomplished with so little. The centre receives no guaranteed government funding. Every dollar is raised through memberships, rentals, donations, and now, the 50/50. Volunteers — more than 150 of them — are the backbone of the operation, giving their time to ensure the centre thrives.
Still, Ward insists the credit doesn’t belong to him. “I don’t want to be featured,” he once told a Global TV reporter. “We are successful because of our board, our staff and our volunteers.”
But it’s clear that under his humble, cheerful leadership, the Sechelt Seniors Activity Centre has become more than a facility. It’s a vibrant lifeline — one roast beef dinner, one game of Mahjong, one lottery ticket at a time.
And that, as Ward would say, is something worth smiling about.
