Missing the social interaction from your favourite recreation program? Coquitlam is offering the next best thing to being there, with a new series of free live online registered programs running in May and June.
COQUITLAM, B.C., May 1, 2020 – Missing the social interaction from your favourite recreation program? Coquitlam is offering the next best thing to being there, with a new series of free live online registered programs running in May and June.
Registration will kick off at 8:30 a.m. on May 1 for a select number of programs for all ages that will take place using Zoom, a popular and easy-to-use online video platform.
Fitness, child development, youth engagement and seniors connection opportunities will be the first offerings Coquitlam will pilot in this new online format for program delivery.
Staying Active and Connected Online
The registered programs are intended to simulate the experience offered by in-person programs, with set dates and times, live instruction and feedback, and the ability to ask questions and interact with other participants.
The City is offering the programs for free as it tests out the use of online tools to deliver programs and assesses user experience and participation.
The first set of registered programs include:
- Fitness (16-plus): Latin dance, yoga, Pilates, high-intensity interval training and kickboxing;
- Children: preschool play and learn, virtual support for bathtub swimming lessons;
- Ages 12-plus /youth: home alone training, and Youth Leadership Engagement Committee; and
- 50-plus: Coffee and conversation.
Information about the technology required to participate and instructions for use are posted at www.coquitlam.ca/programguide. Participants will need a computer, tablet or smartphone equipped with a camera and microphone.
Registration will begin May 1 at 8:30 a.m. through www.coquitlam.ca/registration (available 24 hours a day, seven days a week) and by phone at 604-927-4386 (Weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. except for statutory holidays, and weekends 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
Changing Plans to Serve the Community
Since the COVID-19 pandemic forced the closure of facilities, programs and events in March, Coquitlam staff have been working on alternatives to support the community and encourage physical distancing.
Last week, the City launched CoquitlamSPIRIT (www.coquitlam.ca/spirit), with a library of free static and pre-recorded online content to help residents continue to stay active, healthy and connected their community. Topics include fitness, the outdoors, arts and culture, community support and activities for children, youth, adults and 50-plus.
The new registered online programs and other upcoming CoquitlamSPIRIT activities and content will centre around the themes of caring, connections and community to support residents through these difficult times.
Be Informed
For up-to-date information regarding the COVID-19 impacts to City facilities, programs, services and events:
Coquitlam residents are encouraged to follow the City of Coquitlam on social media (Facebook and Twitter) and download the CoquitlamConnect mobile app for up-to-date City information.
For more information on COVID-19, including updates, answers to frequently asked questions, and translated information, please consult the following resources:
- Fraser Health Authority – www.fraserhealth.ca
- BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) – www.bccdc.ca
- Non-medical information – 1-888-COVID19 (1-888-268-4319)
- Medical information – 8-1-1
Public Health Agency of Canada – www.Canada.ca/en/public-health