MOOSE JAW — On a recent Wednesday afternoon, a group of creative artisans gathered at the Cosmo Senior Citizens Centre for a cheerful rock painting workshop — a social event highlighting a growing range of programming available to adults over the age of 50 looking to socialize, try something new, and perhaps reconnect with old friends.
Set around a large table inside the centre, a small group of seven artists quietly brought smooth stones sourced from their own homes, gardens, and excursions to life by painting rabbits, turtles, and floral patterns at their own pace. To help spark a little imagination, a pile of books borrowed from the Moose Jaw Public Library were on hand. Once completed, their creations were sealed with glaze to improve durability as they’ll soon be featured in gardens and walkways.
“This was a one-time, drop-in activity,” said Cathy Sinclair, a local artist and Cosmo member. “But next Wednesday, people are welcome to bring their projects back — especially if they want to keep painting rocks. I’ll even bring the supplies so they can finish up.”
The event was as much about connection as it was about art, offering a chance for like-minded individuals to unwind, share ideas, and enjoy the simple pleasure of creating something by hand.
Sinclair, who has been instrumental in introducing a few artistic initiatives to the centre, noted that the latest idea stemmed from a desire to diversify activities beyond traditional offerings.
“There are a lot of sports and activities, like pickleball, shuffleboard, and cards, that are really big, but there wasn’t anything for those who have other interests (here at the Cosmo Centre),” she explained.
Working hand-in-hand with Penny Gustafson, the centre’s co-ordinator, Sinclair has been helping the centre expand its scope of programming. “Penny is just like a dynamo — she really is. She has really got things going here.”
Gustafson, who also partook in the rock painting workshop, emphasized the importance of providing varied activities that cater to the diverse interests and mobility levels of seniors.
“We're trying to get more arts and crafts (options) happening in here,” she said. “Our arts and crafts programs are already set up on a weekly basis at 1 p.m. on Wednesdays for members.” Despite the rock painting workshop being a once-only offering, Gustafson said she hopes to introduce even more options including proposed painting classes and card-making workshops.
The Cosmo Centre offers a wide — and growing — array of programs designed to enhance the well-being of seniors through social, cultural, and physical pursuits. Regular activities take place every day of the week except Sundays, and include indoor walking, pickleball for all experience levels, shuffleboard, line dancing, cornhole matches, and card games such as Canasta. The centre also hosts events such as social dances, presentations, and gatherings of the Moose Jaw Camera Club, Prairie Drone Academy, and others.
Membership is $40 annually, rising to $50 in January 2026. Non-members can drop in for only $3 up to three times before deciding whether to join.
The centre's facilities include a large hall with a capacity of 330 people, a smaller hall for up to 100, a yoga room, and a craft room equipped for various activities. These spaces are also available for private rentals, accommodating events such as weddings, dances, and community meetings.
The Cosmo Senior Citizens Centre is located at 235 Third Avenue Northeast. For more information on upcoming events and programs, visit “COSMO SENIOR CITIZENS MOOSE JAW” on Facebook or CosmoSeniorCentre.com. The centre can be reached directly at 306-692-6072.
“Come on down and see what’s happening,” Gustafson said. “There’s always something new to try and we have lots of different activities going on.”
