The volunteers in our communities deserve our gratitude now more then ever. The Alberta Northern Lights Volunteer Program gives them the recognition they deserve.

Individuals and groups from across the province can be nominated for the program if they:

A new fact sheet with information specifically for nonprofits and voluntary organizations is available. The resource includes new information from the Government of Alberta, including WCB premium deferral information for employers and an update about expanding the use of charitable gaming proceeds by the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC). The document also provides a comprehensive listing of supports and services that had been announced previously. 

For older adults, staying social during COVID-19 while maintaining a safe physical distance is vital. However, physical distancing does not mean we have to be disconnected. This webinar will demonstrate the impacts of loneliness and isolation, major risk factors, and what we can do to address the issue to help seniors stay connected. 

Operating at a reduced capacity is an ongoing struggle faced by nonprofits the world over. Because of this, powerful partnerships between organizations are necessary to create social change. Partnerships can be highly rewarding by providing new and ground-breaking solutions to existing problems and adding value to partners through increased credibility, access to new resources, enhanced skills and wider influence on policy. This webinar will address how to build effective partnerships for lasting impact and meaningful improvements in communities. 

The best tools breathe life into your nonprofit's online presence. The question is which ones do you really need? Evernote? DropBox? Google Alerts? There's so much coming at you, it can feel like you're drinking through a firehose. This webinar will introduce you to the tools you need to build an effective online presence.

We've heard there's still room in the following fitness classes at MWSA. Get fit while staying safe at home. To register for either class, email Karen at  [email protected] with the name of your preferred class as the email subject line. 

Whatever your interests, WSAC has an online class for you. Online activities are a great way to stay connected during the pandemic. From yoga to clogging and everything in between, these online options are sure to keep you busy. Current class offerings include:

Check out WSAC's online registration portal for class dates and registration information. A new technology series is currently being developed, so check back soon for details. Non-members are welcome to register by emailing [email protected].

This online gentle movement and relaxation program is designed to help people with persistent pain learn to feel safe to move again. Topics include breath awareness and regulation, body tension regulation, and movement and relaxation techniques in both seated and standing positions. Each class is approximately 50 - 65 minutes in duration.

Did you know informal caregivers provide 80 per cent of caregiving required by older adults in the community? Caregiving can be taxing but Norquest College is offering online training to make it easier. In addition to their regular offerings, the college is providing a selection of new workshops this spring. Upcoming workshops include:

For more information about these courses, visit  www.norquest.ca/family-caregiver.

Want to socialize and make new friends during the pandemic? The good news is, you can do this safely from home with telephone programming from Seniors' Centre Without Walls. There are some great programs coming up!  History buffs will enjoy learning about Indigenous Canadian history in "Indigenous Canada" and hearing how Maritime inventions shaped the world in "Nova Scotian Inventions & Innovations". Want to have a dinner party but can't have company because of COVID-19? Join the virtual dinner party, "Come Dine with Us". Musically-inclined folks will enjoy belting out old favourites during the "Sing-a-Long and Live Music Night". These offerings are just a sneak peak of all available programs. Reference SCWW's May announcement and  schedule for full details. 

Seniors interested in hearing an engaging 5-minute story from a talented storyteller are encouraged to call Storytelling Alberta. The program has been extended to run until May 10. To participate, simply complete the online request form. If you don't have access to a computer, call Doreen Vanderstoop at 403-816-6002 with your name, phone number, date/time preference and the type of story you'd like to hear (personal story/folktale/myth/historical story/fable/fairy tale/teller's choice). 

Local Edmonton businesses are offering delivery of entertainment options, such as books board games, and puzzles when you make a purchase from their shop.

• Glass Book Shop: Free book delivery to homes in Edmonton, Sherwood Park, and St. Albert. Place your order online, then kick back and relax while you wait for the books to be delivered to your door. 
• Audrey's Books: Free delivery for orders over $50. $5 fee for orders under $50. Delivery in Edmonton, Sherwood Park and St. Albert. Curbside pickup is also available. 
• Table Top Cafe: Free delivery for board games/puzzles/food orders over $50, 7 days a week. Call 780-905-3577 for details. Curbside pickup is also available.

The resources on this page are intended to provide everyone with access to important resources. The resources listed cover a wide range of topics for a broad section of our population. The intent is to inform as many people as possible and help them understand their options, available support, and tools to continue to isolate, social distance, remain in quarantine, or access health care support.