Congregate meals programs had been held at various sites throughout the city, and now the Parks and Recreation Department wanted to offer a new concept to encourage our diverse communities to improve engagement, communication and healthy activities consistent with their cultures, where we could have a true partnership. To achieve this, the Food and Fitness Program was created. Seniors who attend the program now participate in a broad array of activities, including computer basics, ballroom and line dance classes, hiking club and trips and tours.

The Food and Fitness Programs are held at the Garfield Community Center and Miller Community Center. The Korean Senior Club is the partner for the Miller CC program, and the Vietnamese Senior Association hosts the Garfield CC program.  Each Tuesday and Friday, seniors from as far north as Everett and as far south as Olympia gather for a program in their language where they also sing karaoke, exercise, have occasional educational speakers, ESL classes, and a lunch featuring the cuisine of their native country. This gives seniors an opportunity to spend time with old and new friends, speaking their native language and enjoying their own culture, as well as providing a chance to learn skills for navigating American culture more comfortably. 

Food and Fitness has been a win-win from all perspectives. The presence of the Korean and Vietnamese senior groups at the community centers has had a positive influence on the youth and other people attending the centers, as well as on the neighboring community. In spite of the language barriers, there is great mutual respect between the different age groups and cultures.

It is our hope that through programs such as these, seniors from diverse backgrounds will gain helpful information about nutrition and the benefits of activity. The goal is also to provide experiences and opportunities that allow them to be more connected to the community at large, taking full advantage of day-to-day living in our city while maintaining a connection to their unique and special cultures.