GNAG fall adult courses – online and in person!

Mary Tsai
GNAG Executive Director

GNAG fall adult courses – online and in person!

We’re baaaaack! It’s been a long time coming, but we are happy to announce that the fall lineup of in-person adult programming is about to kick off. Along with the classic courses and workshops that have been popular for years, we at GNAG are excited to offer a collection of brand new offerings. Favourites such as painting, drawing, writing, bridge, boxing, acting and all that awesome stuff are returning to the centre, but with the new GNAG Studio (174 First Avenue), this fall just got bigger and better. Have you always wanted to play guitar? We’ve got it. Always wanted to start (or finish) that novel? We’ve got it. Want to laugh and meet new people? Well then, the brand new beginners’ improv course might be for you.

GNAG has always strived to offer creative, interesting and stimulating courses, but what we really pride ourselves on is the environment we create while doing so. Whether you are working out with shadow boxing, picking up a paint brush for the first time or getting a big laugh in a comedic scene, all our adult courses are held in a supportive, fun and safe environment. In the words of one student from our afternoon Studio 55 acting classes for seniors, “The highlight of my week is joining the rest of my new friends and having a blast without ever once feeling self-conscious.” Music to our ears. Do you have an idea for a course or workshop? Simply contact John Muggleton at john@gnag.ca, and let’s talk!

GNAGFit Coordinator Ruth Hartanto is also very excited to welcome back in-person fitness and wellness classes at the Glebe Community Centre and at the GNAG Studio! During the pandemic, GNAG offered virtual classes that were so well received we have decided to keep them going, making classes accessible for those who wish to workout from home. So you can continue to get fit and stay fit in person or online.

“I think we found the right mix of class formats and times slots for our virtual clientele,” says Ruth. “They are convenient, safe and a lot of fun. Participants are attending our classes from their home gym, living rooms and even their cottages. We even have clients logging in from across Canada.”

We also know that there are many participants (returning and new) who are excited about coming back to the centre to reconnect and exercise with friends and neighbours. Our instructors are looking forward to bringing back that in-class atmosphere that many have been missing! In addition to GNAG’s traditional in-person cardio and strength classes, we are adding more classes that focus on the mind-body connection.

“As great as it is to weight train and run, cycle or whatever you do for cardio, it is also important to move mindfully, take time to stretch and work on mobility, especially as we get older,” says Ruth. “It’s not just about adding years to your life, but also adding life to your years.”

We cannot wait to see you back in person and online! You can soon see our adult activities on our website at GNAG.ca and our preschool, children and youth activities will be up shortly after. Registration for adult programs opens August 26 at 7 p.m.

What makes summer 2021 so special?

I have been part of summer camps at GNAG for more than 30 seasons and each year brings something special to me. It is so much fun to watch children play, laugh, make friends, learn and bond with staff.

This summer is extraordinary because for many children it was their first social interaction since the beginning of the pandemic. Children were able to go on trips with their friends, do arts and crafts together, play games, put on mini-performances like dance and theatre, go camping, cycle around the city and more. Every day was a joy for the children, their parents and the GNAG summer team.

Parents would say goodbye to their kids in the morning and then go about their day feeling guilt free, knowing their children were safe and well entertained. At the end of the day, their children would come home happy…and exhausted.

Lidia: “Just wanted to say thank you!!! My child has been having so much fun at these camps (and I’m able to have my meetings during the day without the guilt as she’s happily entertained) and that means the world – thank you so much!”

Victoria: “The kids are LOVING the GNAG camps this year…Please give kudos to the whole team for pulling off the camps this year, especially with all the COVID considerations. The kids are really enjoying them and it’s so well organized and coordinated.”

I would like to thank all the parents for trusting the GNAG team in taking care of your children. I also want to thank all the campers for bringing laughter and joy back to the GCC.

Finally, thank you to all our outstanding summer staff and volunteers for an incredible summer. It could not have happened without your energy, creativity and enthusiasm.

GNAG AGM September 29

Learn more about GNAG and the great work we do for your community by attending our Annual General Meeting via Zoom on Wednesday, September 29 at 7:30 p.m.