April 23, 2020
Resources
OLDER ADULTS, PHYSICAL DISTANCING & SOCIAL ISOLATION DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC - WHAT CAN COMMUNITIES DO NOW?
Ontario Age-Friendly Communities Outreach Program 

Communities have been responding to the needs of older adults quickly and creatively during COVID-19. This webinar recording shows examples of Ontario initiatives to assist older adults in these challenging times. Included with this presentation is a downloadable PDF slide deck
COVID-19 RESOURCES FOR EVENT CREATORS
Eventbrite 

This compilation of resources and FAQs is a response to the global need to move events and activities online. Information includes how to set up an online-only event, how to set up a paid online event using Zoom, engagement techniques for online events and more. 
LEADERSHIP IN UNCERTAIN TIMES
CanadaHelps

This webinar recording features a panel of sector experts to discuss leadership in times of crisis. Learn about a variety of pressing topics, including leadership, employment law considerations, human resources best practices, government assistance programs, and more.
More resources for sector staff
(links to the ESCC Resources web page)
Learning Opportunities
MENTAL HEALTH IN OUR COMMUNITIES DURING AND AFTER COVID-19
Alberta Counsel
April 24, 11 a.m. (Mountain) 
Free
 
This interactive webinar is for anyone who is interested in learning more about available resources for mental health. A panel of experts will be on hand to discuss available services in the community. 
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN THE TIME OF COVID-19
Community Initiatives Against Family Violence (CIAFV) 
Free
 
These webinars will explore the issue of domestic violence that is currently being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In these sessions, you will learn what domestic violence during COVID-19 looks like and get specific information tailored for the population you serve. 
IT'S A NEW WORLD: HOW TO CULTIVATE YOUR ONLINE COMMUNITY
Firespring 
April 29, 1 - 2 p.m. (Central)
Free
 
One of the biggest challenges facing organizations is changing the culture of giving and engagement, and our futures depend on it. This webinar provides the 'secret sauce' to cultivating a community of online donors primed and ready to support you. You'll learn:
  • What donor stewardship means in an online world.
  • How to fire up board members, volunteers, donors and staff to fundraise every day.
  • 10 vital actions to cultivate a network eager to support you.
  • How to generate loyal support long past a specific campaign.
  • Why a consistent communications plan is essential.
CREATING MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS WITH FAMILY CAREGIVERS PART 2: THE CARERS SUPPORT NEEDS ASSESSMENT TOOL
Institute for Continuing Care Education & Research (ICCER)
April 30, 10 - 11 a.m. (Mountain) 
Free members; $15 non-members

Family caregivers (FCGs) are the backbone of the health system. They provide over 80 per cent of the care for people with dementia, chronic illnesses, and impairments. To assist caregivers, this webinar will provide information on the Carers Support Needs Assessment Tool, an evidence-based tool that facilitates tailored support for family members and friends (carers) of adults with long term life-limiting conditions.
More learning opportunities for staff/volunteers in the seniors sector  (links to the ESCC Learning Opportunities web page)
News and Events for Seniors
ONLINE COURSES AT EDMONTON SENIORS CENTRES

More seniors centres are offering online courses. Edmonton Seniors Coordinating Council will be tracking and posting information about these courses on our website's news and events for seniors page. This page will continue to be updated with new information as we learn about it.  
YEG NIGHT IN 
Kristin Glass Events
April 25, 5:30 - 10:30 p.m.  
$15

With society spending more time indoors and social distancing becoming the new normal, we're all looking for ways to connect. Join YEG Night In to enjoy an upscale online experience with other Edmontonians. The program includes livestream entertainment plus games and activities to enjoy with other participants. $1 of every ticket sold will be donated to the Mental Health Foundation.   
MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT DURING COVID-19
Centre for Online Mental Health Support
Free

These mini sessions are great mental health boosters in a time when we need it most. The worldwide pandemic weighs heavy on all our minds, but these sessions provide techniques to alleviate some of this pressure and help us achieve a healthier, happier state of mind.
NEW ONLINE FITNESS CLASSES
Mill Woods Seniors Association
Cost by donation

Keep active with fun fitness classes that will help you reach your fitness goals. Improve core stability and prevent back pain with Pilates and lengthen and relieve tense muscles with stretching. Email Karen at  [email protected] with your desired class to register and to get more information. 
  • Soft Pilates: May 2 - June 27, Saturdays, 9 - 10:30 a.m. (Mountain) 
  • Stretch & Release: May 2 - June 27, Saturdays, 10:45 - 11:45 a.m. (Mountain) 
CREATIVEBUG LIBRARIES
Subscription offered by the Edmonton Public Library 
Free with your Edmonton Public Library card

Hey crafters and artists! Your EPL card now grants you access to "CreativeBug Libraries", a virtual platform hosting arts and crafts classes. Enjoy thousands of award-winning art and craft instructional video classes taught by recognized design experts and artists. From crochet to calligraphy, this online resource has something for everyone. 
VISIT THE VANCOUVER AQUARIUM - VIRTUALLY!
Vancouver Aquarium
Free

See cute, aquatic critters live on your digital device. The Vancouver Aquarium has set up live cams to record and share the activities of their marine residents, including sea otters, penguins, and jellyfish. 
EDMONTON ARCHIVES VIRTUAL EXHIBITS
City of Edmonton 
Free

Want to learn more about Edmonton's history? The City of Edmonton Archives' virtual exhibits draw upon records held at the Archives to tell stories about our city and our history. With stories documenting the first schools, life on the homefront during the first world war, the origins of Halloween in Edmonton, and more, this collection of historic photos and stories will show you an interesting new side of the city we call home. 
#WRIGHTVIRTUALVISITS SHARES ARCHITECTURAL MARVELS ONLINE
Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and Unity Temple Restoration Foundation
Thursdays, 12 p.m. (Central)
Free

Calling all architecture nerds! Take part in a virtual tour of a different Frank Lloyd Wright site every week. The tours will be shared as videos on social media. To find tours, search the hashtag #WrightVirtualVisits on social media. Past tours will also be posted online
ONLINE PHOTOGRAPHY CLASSES
Nikon
Free

Aspiring shutterbugs can get up to speed and perfect their photography skills in this online 10-class series. Classes are normally priced at between $15 and $50 each but are currently being offered for free until the end of April. Don't miss this great opportunity to try something new. Learn how to get started with DSLR photography, capture video with your DSLR, take stunning portraits, perfect your lighting technique, and more.  
WORKOUT VIDEOS
City of Edmonton Recreation Centres

Quarantine have you feeling sluggish? Boost your energy levels and work up a sweat from home with gentle yoga sessions, vigorous spin classes, dance routines, and more. This video series has something for everyone and most activities can be done with equipment you have at home. This channel also includes video tips from a personal trainer to help you get the most out of your workouts. 
More  news and events for seniors
(links to the ESCC News and Events for Seniors web page)
Volunteer/Work Opportunities for Seniors
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY FOR CRAFTERS
Mill Woods Seniors Association

Enjoy sewing? MWSA is looking for volunteers to sew fabric masks. Materials are provided, however, you must own a sewing machine. If you want to help, email Michele at  [email protected] to arrange for delivery of mask materials. Video instructions for the mask are available online. The mask you will be making is "mask prototype 2". 
SEND POSITIVE MESSAGES TO SENIORS

Some Edmonton organizations have organized message-writing campaigns during COVID-19. Sending a thoughtful message of positivity is a great way to show a senior that you're thinking of them during this difficult time.
  • CapitalCare Foundation: Send a postcard with a custom message to a resident at CapitalCare Centres. 
     
  • The Good Samaritan Society: Email a note to a local senior, or have your kids or grandkids draw a picture to brighten their day. Send your message to [email protected]. Messages will be printed and shared with residents at Good Samaritan Residences around Edmonton.  
RESEARCH PARTICIPANTS WANTED
University of Toronto, Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy

This research study is being conducted to better understand social interactions and social isolation among Canadian senior citizens, with a focus on how older adults use technology for socializing. The researchers are seeking participants who are aged 55+ and living in Canada to take part in an online survey. For more information, call 1-416-946-8573. 
(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 [email protected]Review our submission guidelines for more information.