Residents at Berwick by the Sea in Campbell River understand that retirement doesn't mean slowing down; it simply provides more time to pursue their passions. Experts in living with purpose, Berwick seniors are actively engaged in giving back to their local and global communities.
Pieter Koeleman has devoted his life to community service and continues to work on his passion projects well into retirement. The only difference now is the robust support of the entire Berwick community.
"Encouraging our residents to live with purpose goes beyond enhancing our communities," says Loren Butler, Community Relations Manager at Berwick by the Sea. "Studies show purposeful living boosts mental and physical health, lowering risks of mortality and heart issues. By supporting their philanthropic efforts, we promote well-being and empower them to make a difference locally and globally."
Koeleman's drive has been shaped by a blend of professional achievements, community involvement, and creative pursuits. As a young physiotherapist in the Netherlands, he witnessed the effects of polio in children, an experience that profoundly impacted his outlook on the preventable disease.
"I saw little kids with braces on their legs, wearing corsets and using crutches," Koeleman recalls. "The virus primarily affects children under five but can impact adults too."
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In 1985, Koeleman immigrated to Campbell River and joined the local Rotary Club a year later. Shortly thereafter, he became a key player in the Rotary's End Polio Now campaign, dedicating much of his life to educating and vaccinating others against the disease. Through the Rotary’s commitment and support from numerous organizations, global polio cases have been reduced by 99.9 per cent. When the campaign began, polio was endemic in 125 countries; today, it remains in only two – Afghanistan and Pakistan.
"I still vividly recall the photos of children suffering from polio that I saw as a young man," Koeleman shares. "In 2016, I was fortunate to visit the Ivory Coast on a humanitarian mission. We worked to improve hygiene and provide education and vaccines to families there. It was a deeply meaningful experience, and I'm grateful to have had that opportunity."
On Oct. 24, World Polio Awareness Day, Berwick by the Sea residents can participate in a special event organized by Koeleman and the Berwick team. Together, they've planned a full afternoon of activities to raise awareness and funds for ongoing polio eradication efforts.
The event will kick off with a presentation covering the past, present and future of polio globally, detailing the Rotary's efforts and the challenges faced by volunteers in places like Afghanistan and Pakistan. Residents will then participate in a 50/50 draw and raffle, boasting more than 20 fantastic prizes, from photography packages and artwork to gift cards, all generously donated by Berwick residents.
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"Supporting our residents in their passion projects benefits not only the individuals but also helps create a vibrant, engaging community that inspires everyone to pursue their passions and live life to the fullest," Butler says.
For more information on World Polio Awareness Day and how you can support ongoing educational and vaccination efforts, visit endpolio.org.
Learn more about Berwick Retirement Communities online at berwickretirement.com or book a tour today with Berwick by the Sea's Community Relations Manager, Loren Butler and see what your life could look like at Berwick by the Sea in Campbell River. Book online here or call Loren at 250-914-8055.