July 13, 2017
Seniors Sector News
INFO SESSIONS: PROGRAMS SUPPORTING LOW-INCOME EDMONTONIANS
City of Edmonton
July 18 from 9-11 a.m. Prince of Wales Armouries, Jefferson Room
July 19 from 3-5 p.m. Edmonton Tower, Rooms 03-380 and 03-385

The Leisure Access Program, the Ride Transit Program and the Providing Accessible Transit Here (PATH) program are subsidy-based and publicly-funded programs designed to remove some of the financial barriers associated with using City of Edmonton recreation and attraction facilities and public transit.

Two information sessions are being held for anyone interested in finding out more about these programs. Presentations will include eligibility criteria and information on how and where to access support for low-income Edmontonians. There will be a question and answer period following the presentations.

RSVP for an info session through the online form.
SHARE TRANSPORTATION TO GREY MATTERS

ESCC has been asked to gauge interest in shared transportation to the 2017 Grey Matters conference in Hinton, September 11 to 13. If there is enough interest, ESCC will book a van/bus. Costs will be determined based on the type of transportation required. The van/bus will leave Edmonton early on September 11 and arrive back late in the day on September 13. 

If you are interested in sharing transportation to the conference, add your information to the sign-up sheet by July 21. We will contact you with costs and other details when we have the information.
More seniors sector news
(links to the ESCC News for Agency Staff webpage)
Resources
LEISURE ACCESS PROGRAM

The City of Edmonton's Leisure Access Program provides free and discounted admission to recreation facilities and attractions to low-income Edmontonians. 

Historically, program eligibility has been limited to those living below the low-income cut-off determined by the Government of Canada. As of July 4, The City of Edmonton has implemented a "sliding scale" approach, whereby applicants with income as much as 25 per cent above the low income cut-off may be eligible for a new subsidized monthly pass. This pass is priced at $20/month for an individual and $70/month for a family. Additionally, income thresholds for the pre-existing Leisure Access Program were increased by 10 per cent to welcome more low income Edmontonians to the free annual pass program for access to participating recreation and attraction facilities.

The information package and application form outlines the program requirements, the brochure lists participating facilities and the website provides more details. Applications to the Leisure Access Program will be available at any City of Edmonton Recreation Centre and Edmonton Tower Service Centre.
More resources for sector staff
(links to the ESCC Service Providers Resources webpage)
Professional Development
LEVERAGING DATA AT THE CENTRE TO IMPROVE OPERATIONAL AND PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS, PARTICIPANT SATISFACTION AND FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
Edmonton Seniors Coordinating Council and MySeniorCenter
September 14, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Location: Training Room #258, Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre, 8330 82 Avenue Edmonton 

Having access to data about the programs and services your senior centre offers is a must in today's funding world. Join us for an interactive dialogue and technology demonstration of the MySeniorCenter database option that is being used by several local senior centres (and thousands of centres in the U.S).  Jeff Rothberg from MySeniorCenter will talk about the system and answer questions about its capabilities when it comes to case management, online registration for classes/events, program management and reporting.

We are inviting current system users, those who are curious about the system (potential users) and funders who require reporting based on outcomes. This is also an opportunity to hear from Edmonton users of MySeniorCenter. Current users may learn something new as we will explore ways to create actionable data that can aid in program and service planning. Funders who provide resources for social and program support at senior centres can see how technology can be used to create reports and evaluate outcomes.

Register online by September 11.
FUNDRAISING 101: THE FUNDRAISING CYCLE
CharityHowTo
August 1, 1 p.m. (Mountain)
Free

The fundraising cycle is the foundation for all development efforts, and it pays to know how to work it effectively. Donors' reasons for giving are complex, so development professionals must understand how to engage with donors effectively at each step in the cycle. What motivates donors? What keeps current donors committed to your mission? What methods can you use to motivate new donors to give and remain a part of your nonprofit's family? Knowing where each donor is in the cycle-and the types of engagement opportunities that work best for each step in the cycle-will help you acquire more donors, steward relationships with your current donors, and raise the money you need to meet mission. Learn more about this webinar.
INSURANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT FOR NONPROFITS
Charity Village and Volunteer Canada
August 10, 1 p.m. (Eastern)
Free

Is your nonprofit and its board of directors adequately protected in case of liability? Nonprofit organizations are not immune from potential claims from employees, board members, and volunteers relating to:
  • Employment Practices (i.e. wrongful dismissal, employee discrimination)
  • Fiduciary Liability (i.e. administration of employee benefits plan)
  • Financial Mismanagement (i.e. board decisions that have adverse financial consequences)
This webinar will show you how, with the right insurance and tools in place, nonprofits can manage their risk effectively. The webinar will cover:
  • What are the risks facing nonprofits, particularly those that engage volunteers?
  • What insurance solutions and tools are available to mitigate those risks?
  • What are some common types of claims against non-profit organizations?
FOSTERING RESILIENCE IN FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF SENIORS IN CARE
Covenant Health Network of Excellence in Seniors' Health and Wellness
August 30, 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
The Lodge at Snow Valley, Edmonton

This one-day symposium explores ways to foster resilience in family caregivers of seniors. It is an opportunity to: listen to family caregivers articulate their expectations, needs and priorities; explore innovative strategies to support and involve family caregivers; and consider policies that could guide health care providers in helping family caregivers adapt and cope successfully with caregiving.

The symposium is targeted to healthcare providers, administrators, community senior support organizations, seniors, family caregivers, and provincial partners in seniors care.
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
DRAMA INSTRUCTOR

Westend Seniors Activity Centre is actively seeking a drama instructor to help lead our drama group. This position will take place at WSAC and the drama group will meet once a week starting in September. We are looking for an enthusiastic individual with experience in drama who can help lead our group who will be preparing for a performance in the spring. If you are interested or want to know more, contact Alex Boisclair, Program Coordinator, via email at [email protected] or by phone at 780-483-1209.
More work opportunities in the seniors sector
(links to the ESCC Sector Job Postings webpage)
News and Events for Seniors
BUDDY BENCHES

The City of Edmonton has installed buddy benches in 13 locations around the city to help reduce social isolation. People who are lonely are invited to sit on the specially-painted blue benches. If someone notices a person sitting on a buddy bench, they are encouraged to sit with them and start up a conversation. Find your nearest buddy bench and connect with someone new!
JAM SESSIONS
SEESA (9350 82 Street)
July 20 and Aug 16, 7-10 p.m.
$3 admission includes refreshments

Bring an instrument or just come to listen. Call 780-468-1985 for more information.
KLONDIKE DAY PANCAKE BREAKFAST
Westend Seniors Activity Centre (9629 176 Street)
July 20, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 pm.
$8

Pancake breakfast available for purchase in the café. Come dressed in your favorite K-Days outfit and enjoy the food and fun. First come, first served. Call 780-483-1209 for more information.
K-DAYS PANCAKE BREAKFAST
Edmonton Seniors Centre
July 21, 9-11 a.m.
$4 in advance and $5 at the door

Come join us in the centre for pancakes, eggs, and sausages with live entertainment by Klondike Kate. Call 780-342-8625 for more information.
K-DAYS PANCAKE BREAKFAST
Strathcona Place 55+ Centre (10831 University Avenue)
July 21, 10 a.m.
$7

Enjoy a pancake breakfast with all the fixins. Call 780-433-5807 or come to the centre to reserve your ticket for a root'n toot'n start to your day. 
DRIVE HAPPINESS IN K-DAYS PARADE
July 21, parade starts at 10 a.m.

Every year the parade sets K-Days in motion with a sea of beautiful floats, giant balloons, amazing performers, loveable mascots and real life animals. This year's route starts on 97 Street heading west down Jasper Avenue and finishes at 108 Street. Make sure you come out to cheer on Drive Happiness.
MONDAY FUNDAY
Mill Woods Seniors Association (2610 Hewes Way, 2nd Floor)
July 24, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Free

Join in an afternoon of fun activities: games, crafting, snacks, pampering, and more! RSVP by calling 780-496-2997.
HEALTH & WELLNESS PRESENTATION
North West Edmonton Seniors Society (12963 120 Street)
July 25, 10 a.m.
Free
  • Hydration and Smoothies: A dietician will talk about the importance of hydration, especially during the summer. She will bring two recipes and samples of some easy-to-make smoothies (dairy and non-dairy) that you can make at home.
  • Ear Care Follow up: Learn about the different types of hearing loss and what you need to know about tinnitus.
Everyone is welcome. Call 780-451-1925 or visit the centre to sign up.
BOB LAYTON'S LIFE IN BROADCASTING
Mill Woods Seniors Association (2610 Hewes Way, 2nd Floor)
July 27, 2:45-3:45 p.m.
$2 MWSA members/$3 non-members

Local media personality Bob Layton will be sharing tales from his new book about people on the air that would make you laugh, shake your head, and cry. The book is available for $20 each and Bob will sign them. All proceeds will be donated to Santas Anonymous, Global TV's Give Me Shelter, and The EPS Foundation. Please RSVP by calling 780-496-2997.
K-DAYS PANCAKE BREAKFAST
North Edmonton Seniors Association (7524 139 Avenue)
July 28, 9-10:30 a.m.
$5

Enjoy a pancake breakfast with entertainment by Klondike Kate Sue Whalen (circa '86). Prizes for best costume. Tickets on sale until July 21. Call 780-496-6969 for more information.
PET THERAPY SOCIETY PRESENTATION
SouthWest Edmonton Seniors Association
August 3, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Location: Yellowbird East Community Centre (10710 19 Avenue)

The Pet Therapy Society of Northern Alberta was created to provide the benefits of the human-animal bond that is well documented in medical, psychological and social literature. At all stages throughout our lives, animal companionship can stimulate sensitivity and learning. Interaction with companion animals can involve values, morals, modes of behaviour, attitudes, self-examination, and even the establishment of new or improved skills. Join SWESA to meet with a volunteer handler and a new furry friend.
SENIORS' REST TENT AT HERITAGE FESTIVAL
August 5-7
William Hawrelak Park

The Servus Heritage Festival celebrates Edmonton's many multicultural communities and showcases food and entertainment from more than 100 countries and cultures. 

Make your visit to this year's Servus Heritage Festival more enjoyable by visiting the Seniors' Rest Tent. The tent will be filled with plenty of tables and chairs, so you can rest in the shade for a while and take a break from the hustle and bustle. 

The Seniors' Rest Tent is conveniently located in the centre of the park near bathrooms and the first aid tent. Seniors will be able to hitch a ride on a golf cart to and from the tent from various points on the festival grounds. 

The Seniors' Rest Tent is brought to you by Connecting Edmonton Seniors, an initiative of the Pan-Edmonton Group Addressing Social Isolation of Seniors (PEGASIS).
BADMINTON FUN DAY INVITATIONAL
SEESA (9350 82 Street)
August 11, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
$3 in advance or $5 on the day

Come out and join the SEESA Badminton Club for this fun day of playing your favourite sport while meeting other players from other senior centres across the city. No prior experience is required. Family and friends aged 55+ are invited to join in the activities. Games start at 9 a.m. and tear down is at 11 a.m. You can purchase lunch in the cafeteria at 11:45 a.m. (optional: not included in the price of the fun day). Call 780-468-1985bor visit the SEESA Front Desk prior to August 11 to register for this fun invitational.
TECH SAVVY SENIORS
Edmonton Aboriginal Seniors Centre (Cottage E, 10107 134 Avenue)

The Edmonton Aboriginal Seniors Centre has partnered with the Edmonton Public Library for a Tech Savvy Seniors Program. Participants will learn all about Facebook, email, online resources and services, word processing and much more. This program runs two sessions per month until March of 2018. EAS has a snazzy new computer lab and welcomes people with all skill levels. Maybe you'd like to be a volunteer who can teach other seniors.

If you would like to participate in this new program call 780-476-6595 to find out the dates and times or become a member and you will get a monthly newsletter.
More  news and events for seniors
(links to the ESCC News and Events for Seniors webpage)
Volunteer/Work Opportunities for Seniors
SUMMER COVERAGE
Edmonton Meals on Wheels

Edmonton Meals on Wheels is in need of volunteers to help with summer coverage. Roles are rewarding and flexible, and don't have to cut into your vacation plans! Help is needed in both the kitchen and throughout the city delivering meals and groceries. Volunteers in both positions will have a direct impact on isolated and homebound seniors. You'll be guaranteed to leave each shift feeling like you've made a difference! For more information on the volunteer roles, or to submit an online application, please visit: mealsonwheelsedmonton.org/donate/volunteer/ or call 780-429-2020 for more info.
(links to the Volunteer and Work Opportunities webpage)
MORE INFORMATION

Link Letter includes new items each week.  If you're looking for content that was included in a previous issue of Link Letter, refer to the ESCC website:

Submissions for Link Letter can be sent to [email protected]Review our submission guidelines for more information.