December 5, 2019
Grants and Awards
ANTI-RACISM ACTION PROGRAM (ARAP)
Government of Canada

Nonprofit organizations interested in combatting racism through projects related to employment, justice, and social participation are encouraged to apply for the The Anti-Racism Action Program (ARAP), which is an important means by which the Government of Canada implements Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy. Learn more and apply by December 17.
More awards and funding news  (links to the ESCC News for Seniors Organizations and Funding Options web pages)
Learning Opportunities
E-LEARNING COURSES
Charity Village

The folks from Charity Village have been hard at work updating their eLearning content, including a complete rewrite of all 13 of their online courses. Get practical and high-quality training in topics including budgeting, board governance, corporate sponsorship, event planning, fundraising, leadership, grant-seeking, proposal writing, policy writing, volunteer engagement, and more from the comfort of your home or office. Each course is self-paced, so you can take as much time or as little time as you need.
HOW TO LEAD EVENT COMMITTEES TO SUCCESS
CharityHowTo
January 8, 1 p.m. (Eastern)
Free

An engaged, enthusiastic event committee is key to the success of any nonprofit event. However, it is up to you to ensure they work as a team to help your organization maximize the event's profits and impact. This 45-minute webinar will show you how to be an effective committee leader and how to create a happy, productive volunteer event team.
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT
NTEN
January 15, 11 a.m. (Pacific)
$125 USD members; $250 USD non-members

Managing your social media channels can often feel more like a headache than a task you look forward to. You don't want to scratch your head over what to post on Instagram vs. Facebook vs. Pinterest vs. Twitter, and even worse, how to make time for it all. This online course will demonstrate ways to effectively manage different social media spaces, and optimize content and scheduling within your team to improve your reach and success.
More learning opportunities for staff/volunteers in the seniors sector  (links to the ESCC Learning Opportunities web page)
News and Events for Seniors
THURSDAY DROP-IN PROGRAM
Westend Seniors Activity Centre (9629 176 Street)
Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
$10

Feed your mind, body, and spirit in this lively drop-in day program, which includes games, a gentle walking group, home cooked meal, and afternoon support circle. Leave feeling refreshed, uplifted, fed, and with a sense of connection to your community. Call 780-483-1209 for more information.
CANDY CANE LANE
December 12-January 1, 6-10 p.m.
Location: 148 Street between 92 Avenue and 100 Avenue
Free (sleigh rides for purchase)

Candy Cane Lane has been a dazzling Edmonton Christmas tradition for over 49 years. Bundle up for a stroll through the neighbourhood and take in stunning Christmas light displays. While you're at it, round up the kids and grandkids for a whimsical sleigh ride. Sleigh rides are available from December 12 to 16 and December 19 to 23. Sleigh ride tickets can be purchased online. Donations for Edmonton's Food Bank are welcome!
CHRISTMAS SING-A-LONG
Strathcona Place Society (10831 University Avenue)
December 20, 1 p.m.
Free

You don't need to have the voice of an angel to join in the fun of singing Christmas carols. Singing is for everyone and is a great way to show off your holiday spirit. Between carols, treat yourself to a selection of hot beverages to stay warm and toasty and sweets to satisfy your holiday cravings. Call 780-433-5807 for more information.
SENIORS CENTRE WITHOUT WALLS HOLIDAY PROGRAMS
Edmonton Southside Primary Care Network
December 23, 24, 27, 30, and 31; 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Free

Jingle bells! Socializing's swell! The holidays aren't far away! Dive into the holiday season with a series of festive phone programs. Enjoy recreational activities and friendly conversations with other seniors from the comfort of home. To join a call, dial 1.855.703.8985 and enter meeting ID 225.573.6467#. To register for reminders, call 780.395.2626. Review the poster for a full listing of activities.
NEW YEARS DINNER
North West Edmonton Seniors Society (12963 120 Street)
December 30; 11:30 a.m. (doors), 12 p.m. (dinner)
$20

Ring in the new year with style. Enjoy a sumptuous feast of Chinese food, play card games with friends, and dance the night away to live music. A cash bar with beer and wine will be available. All are welcome. Call 780-451-1925 to purchase your tickets by December 23.
NEW YEAR'S EVE DOWNTOWN FESTIVAL AND FIREWORKS
City of Edmonton
December 31, 6-9 p.m. (fireworks start at 9 p.m.)
Location: Alberta Legislature Grounds Federal Building (9820 107 Street), Visitor Centre, and Capital Plaza
Free

Celebrate the new year with activities the whole family can enjoy, including live music, roving performers, games, lantern-making, a brand-new light installation, and more! The celebration continues outdoors on the Capital Plaza with main stage performances, ice carving, fire pits, and bannock-making. Dress for the cold! Call 3-1-1 for more information.
COMPUTERS FOR BEGINNERS
Sage Seniors Association (15 Sir Winston Churchill Square)
January 8,10,13,15,17,20, and 22; 2:30-3:30 p.m.
$5 for full course

Computers are becoming increasingly essential for day-to-day living. This introductory course will teach you computer basics, including how to use a mouse, the internet, and e-mail. Classes will be offered in small groups, so you will have ample one-on-one instructor time to get feedback on questions. You must pre-register in-person or by calling the Sage main reception at 780-423-5510 ext. 301.
More  news and events for seniors
(links to the ESCC News and Events for Seniors web page)
Volunteer/Work Opportunities for Seniors
INTERESTED IN BEING PART OF A HEALTHIER CITY FOR SENIORS? TAKE A SURVEY! 
University of Alberta

U of A researchers are currently undertaking a study to understand neighbourhood environments in northern cities, and how these environments impact the lives of senior residents. The study involves a 10-15 minute survey that can be completed online or on paper. For more information, review the poster, or contact Desmond Yim at yim1@ualberta.ca or 780-807-1577.
(links to the Volunteer and Work Opportunities web page)
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 memberservices@seniorscouncil.net.  Review our submission guidelines for more information.