Photo: City of Penticton

Al Sismey with South Okanagan Similkameen is just one of a dozen older Penticton adults being highlighted by the city this week.

Meet some of Penticton's older residents who have contributed to the community as part of a week-long celebration leading up to International Day of Older Persons on Oct. 1.

The city has put together Q&A profiles highlighting 12 older community members who have a combined 835 years of experience and inspiring stories as athletes, community builders, coaches and volunteers.

“By telling their stories, we celebrate them – and the many others like them – who make Penticton the fantastic place it is today,” said the city’s social development specialist Adam Goodwin.

“The purpose is to reduce the stigma and celebrate the amazing things people over age of 55 are doing throughout our community.”

The project included partnerships with practicum students at the University of British Columbia Okanagan’s School of Health and Exercise Sciences and School of Social Work and several organizations throughout the community.

Older adults contribute in many ways to the community, and this project aims to highlight that. Forty-six per cent of the local population is 55 or older. Twenty-nine per cent of older adults aged 65 and older in Penticton live alone.

Many older adults are active member in groups like Lions Club and South Okanagan Similkameen Crime Stoppers, as well as athletic organizations like the Penticton Curling Club, Penticton Tennis Club, Nickel Plate Nordic Centre and Penticton Dragon Boat.

“The City of Penticton is proud to celebrate International Day of Older Persons on Oct. 1 and would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you who are donating your time to help others throughout our community,” said Penticton Mayor John Vassilaki.

“We encourage everyone to get involved in making Penticton an even more age friendly and welcoming community.”

Read all of the profiles here and get to know the older adults in the community living inspiring lives.