Warman Forever In Motion leaders (left to right) Bev Ferner, Dianne Erfle and Jenny Berg

Warman “Forever… in motion” receives City of Warman’s Legendary Group Award

The City of Warman’s Legendary Group Award was presented at the May 8 Regular Meeting of Council as part of its 2022 Volunteer Appreciation Awards. Warman Forever… in motion was named this year’s recipient. Group leaders Dianne Erfle, Bev Ferner and Jenny Berg were at City Hall to accept the award Monday evening.

Warman’s branch of the Saskatchewan Health Authority’s popular Forever… in motion program has been part of our community since 2014. Erfle helped spearhead the group that year; Ferner joined in 2015 with Berg rounding out the leadership group in 2019. They currently hold classes four times per week in a multi-purpose room at the Warman Home Centre Communiplex.

The Forever… in motion program improves and maintains the health of older adults (55+) in the community through physical activity and education. They focus on exercises that help with strength, endurance, balance and flexibility.

“We all had our own reasons for joining Forever…in motion, but it didn’t take long for each of us to realize that this wasn’t just another exercise class for seniors,” they said. “We are ever so thankful for the gratification and appreciation participants show us; not only in their kind words, but in their actions, positive attitudes and increased confidence and ability. It humbles and motivates us.”

Warman Forever In Motion leaders Bev Ferner, Dianne Erfle and Jenny Berg (left to right in foreground) are flanked by Warman councillors (left to right) Richard Beck, Tracy Johnson, Marshall Seed, Kevin Tooley, Youth Councillor Autumn Heppner, Mayor Gary Philipchuk and Councillor Shaun Cripps

Warman Forever… in motion’s popularity has skyrocketed thanks to the passion, experience and joy that Dianne, Bev and Jenny bring to classes. Their fourth class was added this spring and they’ve doubled the number of trained and certified volunteer leaders to six. The investment of their time and effort into this program has allowed older adults in Warman and surrounding area to become more active, physically fit and mentally alert. As a bonus, they’ve also had the opportunity to socialize and make new friends in the community.

“Warman is known for having a full slate of programming for younger adults and especially kids in the community. But, as the community continues to grow, so have the offerings for older adults and seniors,” said Mayor Gary Philipchuk. “Warman Forever… in motion has improved the quality of life for a countless number of 55+ residents; it’s a big part of why they feel Warman is a great place to call home.”

Residents wanting to know more information on how to register can check out the latest Recreation & Community Services Leisure Guide or call the department at the Warman Home Centre Communiplex and ask about Forever… in motion.

The City of Warman’s next 2022 Volunteer Appreciation Award will be announced at the May 23 Regular Meeting of Council.