Committee member

My name is Marjorie Sparkes, and I am a retired Social Worker. I have lived and worked in Clarenville for the past 30+ years, working both in the community and at the Dr. G.B.Cross Memorial Hospital. I now volunteer in my community and as a member of the Wellness Coalition to promote healthy living for the senior population.

I am the proud mother of two adult children and four wonderful grandchildren call me “nanny”. I completed my Bachelor of Social Work at MUN. The early years in my career were in Child Welfare programs. In 1986, I accepted employment as a Social Worker at the Dr. G.B. Cross Memorial Hospital and continued in that position until retirement.

During my career at the hospital, I became very interested in the challenges facing older adults, both on a personal level as well as community. I have been a lifetime volunteer. In my youth, I was a member of various groups and later volunteered with activities that involved my children. I continue to be involved with groups that promote health and wellness for adults and especially seniors. I believe that we have a major role to play in our health and happiness. The more energy we give to self-care, which includes our physical, social, emotional and psychological wellbeing, our chances oflonger healthier lives increases. By investing the same energy and commitment to our communities, we grow healthier, prosperous environments.

A major part of my volunteer time is committed to coordinating a “drop-in” senior’s wellness program, two afternoons per week (GATHER- Generating Awareness through Healthy Eating). This program was originally sponsored by a wellness grant and now continues to operate through volunteers. It offers physical, social, and educational activities for seniors and ensures community involvement through various service projects. I also serve as a Director with the Random Age Friendly Committee and represent seniors on the Clarenville Area Recreation Association. Through involvement with this program, I have been a member of a number of ad hoc committees addressing concerns that affect the health and wellbeing of our citizens.

Being a member of the ERWC is a great opportunity to connect with other groups in the region to share ideas, concerns, and information and to take advantage of the many resources and funding available. The Coalition provides workshops, education materials, training and guidance that you can access for free. Partnership with the Coalition is an opportunity for many positive community connections and growth. We become winners!

The Coalition is dedicated to growing healthy environments and the more active and connected communities are the greater opportunity to be prosperous. Get Involved.