January 12, 2017
Seniors Sector News
INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT FOR LGBT SENIORS

The Edmonton Seniors Centre (ESC) has undertaken a new initiative to create a more inclusive environment for LGBT seniors. ESC is working with community agencies to provide LGBT specific resources and services, providing diversity training for their staff, adjusting their application/membership forms to be gender inclusive, and reviewing their discrimination policies to ensure their agency is up to date with their commitment to inclusion.

An LGBT support group for seniors who want to discuss common issues, experiences and ideas to support one another is also being planned. The group will be facilitated by Centre Manager, Stephen Quinn who is a Registered Social Worker. 

Stephen was recently interviewed by CBC Radio about the LGBT initiative. For more information, contact Stephen at 780-342-8625.
PROVINCE ANNOUNCES ENERGY EFFICIENCY AUDIT PROGRAM FOR NONPROFITS

The Government of Alberta's Non-Profit Energy Efficiency Transition (NEET) Program will provide grants to help nonprofit and volunteer groups conduct audits to determine the efficiency of their lighting, heating, cooling and hot water systems. Equipped with audit information, organizations can then apply for the Business, Non-Profit and Institutional Rebate Program, which offers incentives for the purchase and installation of high-efficiency products.

The programs will be administered by Energy Efficiency Alberta and are expected to be available this spring. Organizations looking for more information can email [email protected].
More seniors sector news
(links to the ESCC News for Agency Staff webpage)
Professional Development
WHY NONPROFITS SHOULD MAKE MONEY, NOT JUST RAISE IT
Nonprofit Hub
January 18, 10:30 p.m. MST
Free

In order to allow nonprofits to not just survive and truly thrive, we need to diversify our revenue, and not continue to rely on traditional donations and grants. This webinar will give nonprofits the tools they need to start generating revenue and stop depending just on donations to run their nonprofit.
GAMING INFORMATION FOR CHARITABLE GROUPS
Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC)
A number of sessions are scheduled from January to March

The Gaming Information for Charitable Groups (GAIN) program gives volunteers an understanding of the responsibilities and requirements of a gaming licence and accountability regarding proceeds. The three-hour session covers:
  • Legislation, regulation, and policies
  • Eligibility for gaming licensing
  • Licensing application process
  • Conducting a gaming event
  • Use of proceeds
  • Financial reporting requirements
Review the workshop schedule and call 1-866-307-7499 or 780-447-7499 for more information.
IMPACT: ADVOCATE WITH EMPATHY
Plan Institute and Tamarack Institute
January 24, 11:55 a.m.-1 p.m. Eastern Time

Advocating with empathy proposes that we stop poisoning the political ecosystem, put aside tactics of blame and criticism and become solution-based advocates. Solution-based advocates have two mutually supportive objectives: they propose solutions while strengthening relationships with all the players, supporters and potential allies inside and outside the political system. This has the benefit of improving government's ongoing capacity to be responsive to our challenges. This webinar will explore what it means to advocate with empathy and improve your chances of advocacy success.
BE AHEAD OF THE TECH CURVE, NOT BEHIND! 5 NONPROFIT TECH TRENDS FOR 2017
Tech Soup Canada
January 25, 10-11 a.m. MST
Free

What trends and best practices should your nonprofit embrace in 2017? This webinar will discuss the tech and web design trends to follow, how they affect the nonprofit sector and how your nonprofit can prepare. 
BOARD TO BOARD NETWORKING: BOARD LEADERSHIP IN A MULTI-ORGANIZATION ENVIRONMENT
Edmonton Chamber of Voluntary Organizations
February 2, 5:30 - 8 p.m.
Location: Ruth's Chris Steak House (9990 Jasper Avenue)
$15 ECVO member; $20 non-member

Board members from Zebra Child Protection Centre, which uses an effective collaboration model, will share their how their board collaborates with other organizations; how they support the initiative; the complexities they have overcome; and complexities they currently face as a board. Register for this board members only event.
More events for staff/volunteers in the seniors sector
(links to the ESCC Events in the Senior-Serving Sector webpage)
Work Opportunities in the Seniors Sector
PART-TIME GUARDIANSHIP/TRUSTEESHIP COORDINATOR
Sage Seniors Association

Reporting to the Director of Operations, this part-time position is responsible for providing education and support to individuals making application for Guardianship, Trusteeship and other Co-Decision making options, of a dependent adult. This is provided through one on one support, group presentations or telephone support. In addition, the position will provide public education sessions regarding Personal Directives and Power of Attorney. 

Qualifications of this position include a Human Services Degree or Diploma and experience or a familiarity with legal documents. For the suitable candidate, this position may be combined with the currently available Outreach and Follow Up part-time position to create a full-time position.

For a complete job description, visit www.MySage.ca. Submit your resume by January 20 to Barb Carroll by fax at 426- 5175 or email at [email protected].
PART-TIME OUTREACH/FOLLOW UP COORDINATOR
Sage Seniors Association

This position is responsible for providing follow up services to seniors recently discharged from the Sage Seniors' Safe House program. This includes assessing needs, providing information and support and client advocacy while assisting them in becoming familiar and safe in their new community. The role of outreach includes public education and supporting those individuals who are waiting to come into the Safe House but cannot due to space limitations.

The successful candidate will hold a degree or diploma in Social Work. Experience working with older adults and/or victims of abuse is required. The position requires the ability to become registered with the Alberta College of Social Workers and a valid Driver's License with an ability to transport clients. For the suitable candidate, this position may be combined with the current posted Guardianship/Trusteeship part-time position to create a full-time position.

For a complete job description, visit www.MySage.ca. Submit your resume by January 20 to Barb Carroll by fax at 426- 5175 or email at [email protected].
More work opportunities in the seniors sector
(links to the ESCC Sector Job Postings webpage)
News and Events for Seniors
LEATHER TOOLING WORKSHOP
Westend Seniors Activity Centre (9629 176 Street)
Tuesdays until March 14 (10 weeks)
9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
$48 + Supplies

Come out and learn the fine art of leather tooling. This fascinating and fun experience is led by an experienced leather crafter. The workshop will lead you through crafting a variety of keepsakes and gifts including leather coasters, wallet, cell phone cover, belt, and key chain. You'll leave with the ability and knowledge to do more. Supply kits are available at a significant discount locally. Details available upon registering. Call 780-483-1209 for more information.
MINDFULNESS SESSION
Strathcona Place 55+ Centre (10831 University Avenue)
January 18, 2 - 3 p.m.
Free 

Practicing mindfulness can bring a host of insights to your physical, mental and social well-being. A registered social worker with the Primary Care Network will present the practice of focusing attention on our thoughts and feelings without judging them. (Not judging is the challenging part.) Sign-up at the Strathcona Place front desk. Refreshments will be available. Call 780-433-5809 for more information.
STRIKE OUT STROKES
SouthWest Edmonton Seniors Association
January 20, 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Yellowbird East Community Centre (10710 19 Avenue)
$2

Unrecognized strokes occur five times more often than obvious stroke. Both are happening at a younger age, opening the door to more and earlier dementia, and sounding the alarm for an increased focus on prevention. Learn how to reduce your risks and recognize and react to the signs and symptoms. The stroke service coordinator with Alberta Health Services will lead this session. Call 587-987-3200 for more information.
FRAUD PROTECTION FOR SENIORS
January 23, 7 - 8 p.m.
Location: Royal Canadian Legion Strathcona Branch 150 (9020 51 Avenue)
Free

Learn valuable information on what to do if you are targeted and tips to protect yourself. A local chartered professional accountant is presenting this session in conjunction with the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada's (CPA Canada) financial literacy program. RSVP to [email protected] or by phone at 780-433-1908.
NEW SPANISH PROGRAMS
Central Lions Seniors Association (11113 113 Street)

CLSA has a variety of new Spanish programs beginning in January:
10-week sessions
Absolute Beginners (#596440) Jan. 25-March 29, Beginners 2 (#596604) Jan. 25-March 29, Advanced (#596616) Jan. 27-March 31 and Intermediate (#596617) Jan. 27-March 31.
CLSA members $125; non-members $155

5-week sessions
Spanish Conversational Practice (#569441) Jan. 25-Feb. 22 and Survival Spanish for Travellers (#596518) Jan. 27-Feb. 23.
CLSA members $40; non-members $70

More details can be found in CLSA's Winter Program Guide. Register online at www.edmonton.ca/eReg or www.clsaedmonton.ca (note: you will need a city Login ID numbers and account PIN to complete). You can also register by calling 311 or in-person between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. For more information call 780-496-7369.
BEACH PARTY
South East Edmonton Seniors Association (9350 82 Street)
January 27, 5:30 pm.

Brush off the snow and stomp out the frost by taking a winter holiday to the "beach". Listen to surf music provided by the Tsunami Brothers, play Beach Blanket Bingo, and forget about the temperature outside if only for one night. You might even win yourself a prize! Enjoy a meal of either Hawaiian pizza or Hawaiian burgers and sip on a tropical punch. Cash bar available for members and invited guests (by reading this you are invited). Tickets are on sale until January 24 at noon (if not sold out before). Call 780-468-1985 for information.
FREE ZUMBA CLASS
Mill Woods Seniors Association (2610 Hewes Way, 2nd Floor)
January 28, 12-1 p.m.

Come try this fun fitness class inspired by Latin-music. Members and non-members are welcome. Free to attend, but please RSVP by calling 780-496-2997.

If you like the class, consider registering for the Regular Zumba classes which run Saturdays, February 4-March 25 from 12-1 p.m. Cost for the eight-week class is $56 members; $72 non-members. Call 780-496-2997 for more information.
SENIORS HOME ADAPTATION & REPAIR PROGRAM INFO SESSION
North West Edmonton Seniors Society (12963 120 Street)
January 31, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Free

The Seniors Home Adaptation and Repair Program (SHARP) will allow senior homeowners age 65 and older to finance home repairs and adaptations through a low-interest home equity loan with the Alberta government. Come learn about this helpful program available to seniors. Call 780-451-1925 for information.
SURVEY: TRANSPORTATION NEEDS OF SENIORS AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
Medically At-Risk Driver Centre, University of Alberta

The University of Alberta is conducting a 20-minute telephone survey of seniors living in Alberta. You will be asked questions about how you get to where you want to go and what places you don't go to because you don't have a ride. If you are still driving, you will be asked to think about seniors in your community who don't drive when answering the question. You will also be asked questions about what type of service (e.g., a handivan or a bus) is needed in your community to help seniors stay mobile.

Survey results will be shared with individuals and organizations in communities across Alberta, so communities can use the information to start or improve transportation services in their area. If you are interested in taking part in this survey, contact Tara Pidborochynski at 780-248-1728 or Emily Hussey at 780-492-5892.
More  news and events for seniors
(links to the ESCC News and Events for Seniors webpage)
Volunteer/Work Opportunities for Seniors
VOLUNTEER DRIVERS
Drive Happiness

If you enjoy chatting with seniors and still like to drive, Drive Happiness would love to hear from you. Drivers make their own schedule and select where they will drive. A small reimbursement to go towards your gas and vehicle wear and tear is offered. Even two hours a week can change a senior's life. Call 780-424-5438, ext. 2 for details.
(links to the Volunteer and Work Opportunities webpage)
MORE INFORMATION

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