411 Dunsmuir St. Vancouver, BC V6B 1X4 Phone: (604) 684-8171 Fax: (604) 681-3589

Society History

In 1971, the provincial executive of the Seniors Citizens Association of BC approached the provincial government regarding a “rest and refreshment” facility for older people who were in downtown Vancouver for the day to attend doctors’ appointments, and for other reasons.    Because of its central downtown location and its proximity to the bus depot, 411 Dunsmuir Street was suggested as the ideal spot!

During 1972, the government allotted space for such a facility at the 411 Dunsmuir Street building, and renovations started that summer.   Staffed by volunteers, the centre was opened December 5, 1972.   Tea, coffee, and cookies were available to any senior who dropped in.  

As requests for sandwiches, soup and hot lunches increased, a full-time cook was hired in August 1973.    A cook’s assistant was hired in July 1974.   Various menu items were available at low cost.   A full-time coordinator was designated in June 1974.   Some additional space in the 411 Dunsmuir Street building was acquired by August 1974.

In the early years, policy for the Centre was established by the 411 Seniors Centre’s Executive Board, in cooperation with the three paid staff (coordinator, cook and cook’s assistant).   The Board, composed of interested seniors, had the planning of the centre as its first responsibility.   The Board appointed and delegated duties to committees to carry out special functions such as entertainment, bingo and other activities.

The membership system was initiated in March 1975, and by the end of April 1975 more than 1138 people had become members.   As membership grew, the appointed Board became a Board elected by the membership.

The need for services continued to grow and on May 2nd, 1977 the 411 Seniors Centre Society was constituted as a registered, non-profit charitable society.   Programs and services were offered on the main floor of the building, with administrative offices on the second floor.   In the early 1980s, the 411 Seniors Centre acquired the third floor of the building, allowing it to expand its services yet again.

Today, the 411 Seniors Centre is a vibrant hub of activity serving hundreds of seniors every week.   It offers more than 40 free and low-cost programs and services in the area of health and wellness, recreation and education including:   nutritional meals, medical clinics, dental clinic, flu shots, trips, classes, workshops, information and referral services, income tax clinic, simple will preparation, and so much more.

In 2006 the Provincial Government gave the building to the 411 Seniors Centre Society giving more opportunities to the Society.