November 12, 2020
Senior Sector News
NEW LOOK, SAME GREAT CONTENT
The software system used by the Edmonton Seniors Coordinating Council (ESCC) to create Link Letter recently upgraded to a new email editor. As a result, ESCC staff were required to create a new template. Rest assured that--while the look has changed--the content is the same.
INCREASED TECHNOLOGY USE HELPS CONNECT OLDER ADULTS DURING PANDEMIC
AGE-WELL Canada
Technologies and online services have been important lifelines for many Canadians during the COVID-19 pandemic. They are being relied on in the workforce, the education system, and to simply keep us all connected when we are not able to do so face-to-face.  
 
Now, a new Age-Well poll shows how important technology is to older adults, and how they have adapted to this new way of life.
 
In addition to the identified increases in technology use is also the acknowledgement of the impact technology has had in the lives of older adults. Age-Well found over two-thirds (66 per cent) of Canadians over the age of 50 agree that technological advancements can help to lessen the impact of COVID-19 on daily life. 
 
What do the findings mean for the development of new technologies to support older adults? A webinar on November 18, 2020 will explore that aspect of the conversation.


More seniors sector news
(links to the ESCC News for Seniors Organizations web page)
Resources
2020 BOLAND SURVEY NOW OPEN
Calgary Chamber of Voluntary Organizations
Until February 2021
The Boland Survey is an important and valuable resource for ESCC members and other seniors sector members, as the information provides a thorough look at non-profit compensation and HR data.

Non-profits across Canada participate, providing data that helps organizations make informed comparisons and predictions on salary and human resource practices – including flex time, on-boarding, paid time off, professional development practices, employee recognition, and recruitment practices.

The data is aggregated and will be shared in the spring of 2021 (no organization’s data will be identifiable). By completing the survey, you are helping inform the seniors serving sector.  

DIRECTOR DUTIES: INFO SHEET
IntegralOrg
During times of disruption, the need for engaged Board leadership and timely decision-making is amplified. It is critical that Directors of non-profit and charitable organizations are aware of their responsibility to protect and steward the organizations they serve both in times of stability and during change or crisis. This information sheet summarizes the important role Directors play, regardless of whether their organization has continued operations without pause, reduced programs and services, or is taking steps towards dormancy or dissolution. 

COMMUNITY SAFETY PRESENTATIONS
The Neighbourhood Empowerment Team (NET)
Free
NET is a partnership between the City of Edmonton, Edmonton Police Service, The Family Centre, and United Way of the Capital Region to identify recurring situations that affect community safety. NET works with Edmontonians to find sustainable safety solutions. Right now, NET is offering presentations for older adults via seniors residences and organizations. The presentations cover:  

  • Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design 
  • Importance of reporting a crime 
  • When and how to report a crime 
  • Safety at home and in the community 
  • Resources and supports will be provided 

If you’re a senior-serving organization interested in booking a presentation for your older adult clients, contact Stephen Quinn, Community Safety Liaison, by emailing 
[email protected] or calling 780-691-2899.  
CAREGIVER SUPPORT COMMUNITY
Caregivers Alberta 
Multiple dates 
Online (Zoom) 
Free 
The Caregiver Support Community is a virtual program that aims to empower caregivers’ well-being by providing a supportive group where you can connect with other caregivers, have open conversations about the ups and downs of caregiving, and learn about topics relevant to caregivers. This group is led by a trained facilitator who will guide your caregiving journey by way of education and support. You will receive a Zoom link to the group the day before the event. You will also receive a phone number if you prefer to connect by phone.  

More resources for sector staff
(links to the ESCC Resources web page)
Learning Opportunities
CANADIAN FALL PREVENTION CONFERENCE
Parachute
Nov. 16-20, 2020
Online
$50
Parachute is hosting the fifth Canadian Fall Prevention Conference. The theme is Connecting Communities: Fall Prevention Across the Lifespan. The event will include a series of digital presentations by speakers from across Canada who work various sectors including health care, public health and injury prevention. The content is relevant for: early educators, healthcare professionals, researchers, and community partners. Two presentations will be held daily: one at 10 a.m. and another at 1 p.m.

GRANT WRITING 101: A LIVE INTERACTIVE WEBINAR
Government of Alberta, Community Development
Nov. 26, 7 p.m.
Free
For many non-profit volunteers and staff, grant writing can seem like a time-consuming task in creative writing with the payoff being luck of the draw. The truth is, with steep competition for limited grant dollars, a well-written grant is only part of the success formula. This two hour webinar covers core proposal and grant writing skills, how to avoid common pitfalls, understanding what funders look for, and tips on how to maintain good relationships with your funders.

More learning opportunities for staff/volunteers in the seniors sector (links to the ESCC Learning Opportunities web page)
News for Seniors
INFLUENZA VACCINE NOW AVAILABLE
Various locations
Free
Influenza immunization is more important this season, than ever before. All Albertans, six months of age and older, are eligible to be immunized, free of charge. To prevent the spread of COVID-19, there are no mass flu clinics this year. However, Albertans can receive the vaccine from their pharmacist or physician.

THE SHARED MIC PODCAST: EPISODE 3 OUT NOW!
Age Friendly Edmonton
Free
Looking for more entertainment options? podcasts are a great option! You can tune in to Edmonton’s new intergenerational podcast, 'The Shared Mic: Conversations for the Ages', anytime and anywhere using Apple, Google, or Spotify on your digital device. The Shared Mic brings together people from different generations and backgrounds for rich discussions. Don't miss our most recent episode in which Activist Jesse Lipscombe meets with International Diplomat Eric LaMont Gregory to discuss 'Negotiating Change' in the context of racial justice, including the Black Lives Matter movement that has swept the globe.

GRANDPARENTS WHO PARENT SUPPORT GROUP
Seniors' Centre Without Walls and Sage Seniors Association
Runs every Thursday until Dec. 17, 10 a.m.
Online
Free
This support series is for grandparents who are parenting their grandchild or grandchildren. Some of the topics covered include identifying the impact of family histories, healing practices and skills, understanding your “complex” role, building healthy boundaries, exploring legal issues, and promoting hope. Register for the program by calling 780-446-3569, or 780-395-2626.
YOUR THIRD EAR
Canadian Hard of Hearing Association-Edmonton 
Various dates and times available  
Location: Jerry Forbes Center (12122 68 Street) 
$25 per session (single registration fee covers yourself AND your communications partner) 
These workshops will help you understand unrealistic expectations you may have of your hearing aids, the reality of hearing loss, and what you need to do to reconnect with loved ones. Bring an audiogram if you have one and a communication partner. Note pre-registration is required. Sessions will be socially distanced and face shields will be provided. Please also wear your own mask to the center.
Registration options include:
  • Nov. 12, 9:30-11:30 a.m. 
  • Nov. 17, 9:30-11:30 a.m. 
  • Nov. 18, 1-3 p.m. 
  • Nov. 24, 9:30-11:30 a.m. 
  • Nov. 26, 9:30-11:30 a.m.  
 
RSVP by emailing [email protected] or calling 780-428-6624. 
MANAGING MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS SERIES
Sage Seniors Association
Fridays, 11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Online 
Free
Mental health should always be a priority. During the pandemic, many of us are facing additional stress. Sage is continuing to offer their new mental health series for those who need a bit of a boost. Take control of your mental well-being; join an upcoming workshop:
  • Personal Relationships & Setting Boundaries: Nov. 13 
  • The Importance of Sleep: Nov. 20 
  • Creation of a Safety Plan: Nov. 27
You can join sessions online using your digital device or by dialing 1-855-703-8985 (toll-free) on your phone.

REGISTER FOR FALL PROGRAMS
Mill Woods Seniors Association
MWSA is accepting registrations for session three of fall programs. Stay active and engaged with fitness programs, arts activities, social programs, and more. For more information about available programs and to register, visit the website.

FAMILY CAREGIVER WELLNESS EVENT
Caregivers Alberta and NorQuest College
Nov. 17 (afternoon) & Nov. 18 (morning) 
Online
Free
Now, more than ever, family caregivers need support to care for their loved ones. This virtual event will provide educational awareness for family caregivers about resources in the community to help them. This event is split into two days (November 17th & 18th) and you are welcome to attend either one day or both! This first day will showcase new technologies being tested by caregivers, as well as existing products and services to help family caregivers and their loved ones. The second day will include workshops with Caregivers Alberta and one of NorQuest's Family Caregiver Wellness Workshops.

ADVANCE PLANNING: POWERS OF ATTORNEY AND PERSONAL DIRECTIVES
Early Onset Alberta Foundation (EODAF)
Nov. 17, 10-10:40 a.m.
Free
“I am strong and healthy!” “We have each other for support!” “I don’t have anything, so I do not need to worry!” Have you ever heard, or thought, any of these phrases? The truth is each and every one of us is vulnerable and we all have commitments and responsibilities that we are obligated to manage while we're alive. This session will cover all you need to know when planning for the unexpected. Email [email protected] to register and receive the join link.
2020 VIRTUAL SENIORS FORUM
Sage Seniors Association and Age Friendly Edmonton
Nov. 18-21, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Online
Free
Registration for the 2020 Virtual Seniors Forum is now open. The upcoming Forum will provide a safe space for seniors to connect, celebrate, access resources, and have questions answered. No computer? No problem! All the sessions for this four-day event are accessible by phone. Call 780-701-9020 to get more information.

FESTIVAL OF TREES
Nov. 20–Dec. 20, various times
Online
Free and ticketed events
This year’s Festival of Trees is being transformed into an intimate, personal experience right in the comfort of your own home. Stay safe, get cozy, and enjoy the magic. There are wonderful activities for all ages, including one-on-one or group video visits with Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus, an online auction featuring more than 150 items (including the festival’s magical Christmas trees) and Festival in a Box for children or adults – where the spirit of the festival is delivered right to your home!

CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP
Strathcona Place Society (10831 University Avenue)
Tuesdays, Nov. 24-Dec. 15, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
$30 members; $40 non-members
This four week, in-person program focuses on two creative writing genres: poetry and prose. Get the encouragement and guidance to help you put ‘pen to paper’ to write your masterpiece. In this course, you will also develop editorial skills through giving and receiving respectful feedback. Learn how to make your writing appeal to your target audience, brainstorm ideas, and borrow the techniques of seasoned writers to sharpen your own skills.

BLACK OWNED HOLIDAY MARKET
Habesha African Market (10418 107 Ave, Second Floor)
Nov. 28, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Free admission
Visit a holiday market and pop-up style and community-oriented space featuring black-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, and creatives. Support and shop your local community this holiday season! Note that from 10 a.m. until noon, the market will be reserved for families with small children, seniors, and immunocompromised individuals.
WINTER INDIGENOUS ARTISANS CRAFT SALE & FUNDRAISER
Alberta Indigenous Games
Nov. 28-29, 10 a.m.-5p.m.
Location: Edmonton Inn (11834 Kingsway Avenue)
Free admission
Tanisi! The holiday season is just around the corner. Support your community and shop for locally made Indigenous crafts. Find one-of-a-kind traditional crafts, such as mukluks, moccasins, paintings, carvings, jewellery, and more. Indigenous artisans seeking to book a table are encouraged to contact Martha Campiou at 780-497-2546 or [email protected]. Proceeds will go toward supporting Indigenous artisans and upcoming Alberta Indigenous Games. Note that strict COVID-19 protocols, including social distancing, will be observed at this event to protect artisans and customers.
More news and events for seniors
(links to the ESCC News and Events for Seniors web page)
Volunteer Opportunities
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY NEEDS VOLUNTEERS
Habitat for Humanity
Volunteer Information Session
Nov. 17, 6 p.m.
Have you often considered volunteering with Habitat for Humanity but just aren’t sure what you can do? Everyone is welcome to sign up for Virtual Volunteer Info Sessions. Feel free to invite a friend to register as well! Learn about taking the next steps and see what opportunities are available. All volunteer roles have extensive COVID-19 protocols in place to protect volunteers. An orientation will be provided to each volunteer and adherence is required. For more information, contact Monica at [email protected] or 780-451-3416 ext. 222


CALLING ALL KNITTERS!
Westend Seniors Activity Centre (9629 176 Street)
Ongoing
Westend Seniors Activity Centre intends to do its annual Mavie’s Mitten Tree donations of hats, mitts and scarves to area schools this year. If you have some items you would like to donate, drop them by the centre. You can also pick up yarn at the centre for your donated projects. For more information, call 780-483-1209.
VARIOUS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Mill Woods Seniors Association
Join the great team at Mill Woods Seniors Association. The centre is currently seeking volunteers to assist in a variety of roles. To learn about current opportunities, email [email protected] or call 780-496-2997. 
(links to the Volunteer and Work Opportunities web page)
MORE INFORMATION
Link Letter includes new items biweekly. If you're looking for content that was included in a previous issue of Link Letter, refer to the ESCC website:



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