The Ruth Clarke Centre for Seniors was constructed in 1979. Annual memberships are available for adults age 55 and older. The annual membership allows for participation in the Centre’s programs as well as additional discounts for fitness classes.
New! Learn, Play, Connect 55+
Stay sharp and connected with a variety of free virtual programs.
Learn, Play and Connect Program Schedule
We have a variety of virtual programs to choose from. From arts and culture programming to fitness - discover our FREE offerings below!
Learn, Play, Connect 55+: Free Educational Programs |
| Find an online learning opportunity that interests you. Expand your knowledge, learn new skills, and apply them in your day-to-day activities or volunteer work. For these classes you will be required to have a laptop, tablet or device with a camera and microphone to participate in these classes. To register, please email the Older Adult Activity Coordinator or call 905-885-7908.
Psychological First AidPsychological First Aid is about taking care of yourself and being there for family, friends, and the community when they are having difficulties coping. Learn how to anticipate stress and crisis whenever possible and equip yourself with the skillset to practice self-care and to provide care for others during particularly challenging times. This course teaches you how to build resiliency to stress and establish coping strategies for stress and trauma. To register, please email the Older Adult Activity Coordinator or call 905-885-7908.
Food Handlers CertificateThis virtual training opportunity is available to RCAC volunteers or those interested in becoming volunteers. By completing this online course you will receive a Ministry recognized food handler certification. In Good Hands was developed by Health Inspectors at the Thunder Bay District Health Unit. This virtual course can be complete at your own pace and at any time that is convenient for you. All volunteers who are interested in assisting at future programs and events that involve serving or cooking food must have this certification. To register, please email the Older Adult Activity Coordinator or call 905-885-7908. Self Exploration: Examining My Online Identity and Digital Media UseThis course is the digital version of a course created by Literacy Link South Central (LLSC) in 2013 and funded by the Ontario government using Employment Ontario funding. In this course, you will learn about your online identity, discuss how to protect your online identity with secure passwords, look at the uses of digital devices and media in your life and talk about evaluating online information. This is an online course that is available at anytime. To register, please email the Older Adult Activity Coordinator or call 905-885-7908.
Creating Your Digital FootprintIn this course, you will find out what a digital footprint is and how you create one. You will explore the different reasons we communicate online and look at some online communication tools. Don't worry if you don't know what any of those terms mean yet. You will by the end of the course! This is an online course that is available at anytime. To register, please email the Older Adult Activity Coordinator or call 905-885-7908.
Becoming a Volunteer in Your CommunityVolunteering in your community is a great way to be involved and gain experience! This short course will help you to learn about yourself, explore practice skills you will need in a volunteer or work placement position. This is an online course that is available at anytime. To register, please email the Older Adult Activity Coordinator or call 905-885-7908. |
This program has been made possible by the support from the New Horizons for Seniors Program and Employment and Social Development Canada.
The Ruth Clarke Activity Centre for seniors is currently closed. Programs are running out of Town Park Recreation Centre.
- Located at: 81 Mill Street South,
Port Hope, L1A 2S8, - The Ruth Clarke Activity Centre is currently closed. All programs are running out of Town Park Recreation Centre.
- Community Hall with kitchen
- Lounge
- Small fitness room
- Computer lab
The Ruth Clarke Activity Centre is currently closed. Check out our facility and rental webpage for information on rentals at other facilities.
Membership
Memberships can be renewed in person at the Town Park Recreation Centre or over the phone. The annual membership fee for the Ruth Clarke Activity Centre is $20.00 per person per year. Nominal fees are applied to the Seniors Centre’s activities for participation. Your membership is valid for one year from the date of purchase.
Membership types |
There are three types of memberships:
Senior programs are offered year-round through the Ruth Clarke Centre. Various community groups and organizations use the facilities for their meetings and events. |
Ruth Clarke Advisory Board |
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The purpose of the Advisory Board is to advise the Municipality of Port Hope, Parks, Recreation and Culture Department, on matters pertaining to programs, activities and services to members of the Ruth Clarke Activity Centre Seniors and to fully represent the members of the Ruth Clarke Centre. The Advisory Board is comprised of elected members voted on by the membership. Those running or election are nominated by the membership to run for a position on the Board. The Board consists of no more then 9 members serving a 3 year term. Introducing your current Ruth Clarke Advisory Board:
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RCAC Programs: September 3 - November 20, 2022
See below a list of programs available to RCAC members. More programs will be added to the schedule as we continue to slowly bring back programs.
Card Programs |
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Below is a list of all card programs that are currently available to RCAC members. Duplicate BridgeDuplicate Bridge is taking place at the Town Park Recreation Centre. Drop-ins can be accepted. All RCAC members are welcome! Tuesdays 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. CribbageCribbage is taking place at the Town Park Recreation Centre. Drop-ins can be accepted. All RCAC members are welcome! Starting on September 19, 2022. Mondays 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Bid EuchreBid Euchre is taking place at the Town Park Recreation Centre. Drop-ins can be accepted. All RCAC members are welcome! Wednesdays 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. CanastaCanasta is taking place at the Town Park Recreation Centre. Drop-ins can be accepted. All RCAC members are welcome! Fridays 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EuchreEuchre is taking place at the Town Park Recreation Centre. Drop-ins can be accepted. All RCAC members are welcome! Starting September 23, 2022. Fridays 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. |
Colouring Club |
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Colouring Club is taking place at the Town Park Recreation Centre. Bring your colouring books and supplies to enjoy a social morning with friends while sharing creative ideas and techniques. Drop-ins can be accepted. All RCAC members are welcome! Resuming on September 19, 2022. Mondays 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. |
Tai Chi |
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The Tai Chi program is taking place at the Town Park Recreation Centre. Current members of RCAC are welcome to participate in the program and three class levels will be available every Tuesday. Drop-ins can be accepted. All RCAC members are welcome! Resuming on September 20, 2022. Tuesdays 9:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. (Continuing) Tuesdays 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. (Intermediate) Tuesdays 11:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. (Beginner) - Registration Required. |
Knitting Circle |
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Knitting Circle is taking place at the Town Park Recreation Centre. Bring your knitting supplies and enjoy each other’s company while sharing your projects and patterns. Drop-ins can be accepted. All RCAC members are welcome! Tuesdays 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. |
Bingo Programs |
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Below is a list of all bingo programs available to RCAC members. BingoBingo is taking place at the Town Park Recreation Centre. The cost to play is $2.50. Drop-ins can be accepted. All RCAC members are welcome! Tuesdays 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Dime BingoDime Bingo is taking place at the Town Park Recreation Centre. The cost to play is $2.00. Drop-ins can be accepted. All RCAC members are welcome! Fridays 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. |
Darts |
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Current RCAC members are welcome to join our darts program at the Town Park Recreation Centre. Bring your own darts. Drop-ins can be accepted. All RCAC members are welcome! Wednesdays 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. |
Memoir Writing Course |
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These four sessions will get you started on writing your memoirs and focus on your purpose – to explore your personal past and your emotional memories, to hand on your knowledge to the next generation, and to bring alive the 'good old (or not so good) times'. We’ll do some writing exercises. You are welcome to share them with the class or submit them to me privately for advice and guidance. Starts September 27, 2022. Registration is required. Tuesdays 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. |
Puzzles |
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The puzzles program is taking place at the Town Park Recreation Centre. Come enjoy an afternoon of jigsaw puzzles and socializing with friends. Puzzles are provided. Drop-ins can be accepted. Resuming on September 21, 2022. Wednesdays 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. |
Scrabble |
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The scrabble program is taking place at the Town Park Recreation Centre. Come enjoy a good game of scrabble and socializing with friends. Scrabble boards and dictionaries are provided. Drop-ins can be accepted. Thursdays 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. |
Nordic Pole Walking Course |
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Come join us for a total body workout while socializing! Nordic Pole Walking targets 90% of your body’s muscles, cardiovascular system, keeps your body in alignment, reduces impact and burns calories. You will be shown how to achieve this by a trained Nordic Pole walking instructor. If you have your own poles, please bring them to each walk. For participants who do not have their own equipment, a limited number of walking poles will be available for use and need to be returned to the instructor after each walk. All walks start at Riverside Park. This program will be cancelled on days where there is inclement weather. Starts September 6, 2022. Registration is required. Tuesdays 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. |
Computer Lab |
| The computer lab is taking place at the Town Park Recreation Centre. Come and enjoy free use of our laptops and WIFI. Drop-ins can also be accepted. All RCAC members are welcome!
Summer program hours: Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. |
Computer Training Course |
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In partnership with Fleming College, RCAC members have access to free in-person computer training. The course will take place at the Town Park Recreation Centre. Participants will learn basic computer navigation, Internet usage, digital communications (including texting, email), and Microsoft Word. Registration is required for this course. Participants must commit to attending all four dates. The course will resume in fall 2022. |
Fall Fitness Session |
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The Municipality is offering a Fall Fitness Session which starts on September 19, 2022. Registration is ongoing. |
Minds in Motion |
| Minds in Motion is a 2-hour program that combines 1 hour of physical activity with 1 hour of mental and social stimulation. It is designed for individuals with any form of memory loss and their care partners to attend together. This program runs once a week for 8 weeks and offers the opportunity to establish new friendships with others who are living with similar experiences. This program is offered in partnership with the Alzheimer's Society at the Municipality of Port Hope.
Due to the current pandemic Minds in Motion has shifted to make sure we can continue to offer our services and supports to all who wish to take part. Minds in Motion is currently being offered twice a week virtually over the Zoom platform. We have altered the program to run 30 Minutes physical exercise followed by 30 minutes of social/rec. Every Monday and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. this is a perfect opportunity to try the program. There is no diagnosis needed for this program. There is no better time then now to try it out. We welcome all to join in our fun. For more information you can contact: Jennifer Stubbert Minds in Motion Coordinator 705-748-5131 ext 225 or 1-800-561-2588 or jennifer@alzheimerjourney.ca |
RCAC workshops and events
A variety of free workshops and events are offered to RCAC members in partnership with local organizations. See a list below including dates, times, descriptions and how you can join.
RCAC Volunteer Training |
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All RCAC program conveners are required to attend a training session. This training is designed to update volunteers on program return plans, COVID-19 safety procedures, and to complete outstanding paperwork. Please check back for future training dates. |
RCAC Workshops |
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Below is a list of the workshops that are currently available to RCAC members. To register, please contact Town Park Recreation Centre. Healthy Brains WorkshopThis education session discusses the importance of making brain-healthy choices, steps that we can take to be good to our brains as we age, and the ways that we can reduce risk factors for developing dementia. Please join us to learn more about the importance of challenging our brains, eating a brain healthy diet, managing stress, being socially and physically active, and making good lifestyle choices. Thursday September 8, 2022 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Fire Safety for Older Adults & SeniorsFire Risk for Older Adults is a serious matter – On average, 26 adults aged 65+ die in fires in Ontario every year. Learn practical tips to keep you safe during a fire event. Thursday September 22, 2022 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. 2022 Municipal Election – Overview of Internet VotingDuring this short session, Shrishma Davé, Deputy Clerk, will provide an overview of how to vote online for the upcoming municipal election. Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions and will also be able to check to see if they are on the voters’ list. Wednesday September 28, 2022 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Options in Your NeighbourhoodThis workshop will educate the participants on different residential options available in the community. You will gain knowledge about independent living, seniors’ residences, assisted living, and long-term care. This workshop will take place at Jack Burger Sports Complex. Thursday September 29, 2022 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Bones 101This workshop will discuss what osteoporosis is, the risk factors, how it is diagnosed, what you can do to maintain healthy bones, how it is treated and how to live well with osteoporosis. The workshop will be presented as a watch party at Town Park Recreation Centre. Thursday September 29, 2022 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Hearing ClinicBook a 30-minute appointment with a Hearing Care Counsellor who will screen you for hearing loss, answer questions about hearing loss and hearing health care, provide information on the use, care and maintenance of hearing aids (and other communication devices), and help you understand hearing loss and managing difficult listening situations. To book your appointment, contact Town Park Recreation Centre. Thursday October 6, 2022 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Powers of AttorneyIn this workshop you will learn about power of attorney for property and for personal care. We will discuss who makes decisions if you can't, how to prevent power of attorney abuse, and how to express your wishes. Friday October 14, 2022 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. WillsFind out what a will is and who can make one. We will cover the types of things that could go into a will and how the estate process works. Friday October 21, 2022 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Consumer Protection & Fraud PreventionWhen it comes to scams, your best option is to prevent being taken in by them. Learn how to protect your income and assets from fraud. We will discuss tips for identifying scams online, by text, phone and at your door and what to do if you experience fraud. Friday October 28, 2022 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Elder AbuseLearn the signs of elder abuse, how to report elder abuse, and the laws and supports that help protect seniors. Friday November 4, 2022 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Health Care & Human RightsCome talk about your rights related to health care. You will learn about your options if you or someone else faces discrimination. Friday November 18, 2022 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Income Supports for Older Adults & SeniorsAre you receiving all of the supports that are available to you? This session will cover the types of income and benefits available for seniors. Friday November 25, 2022 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. |
New Seniors Centre
On March 18, 2021, our Federal and Provincial governments announced that the Municipality of Port Hope was successful in their application for funding for the expansion of the Town Park Recreation Centre.
The project involves the expansion and rehabilitation of the existing Town Park Recreation Centre, with the addition of three multi-purpose rooms, a large gathering area, storage space, as well as rehabilitating the existing kitchen, increasing room sizes, and creating a new parking lot.
The addition at the Town Park Recreation Centre will be the new home to our 55+ membership and will provide improved access to the community and recreation activities.