October 1, 2020
Seniors Sector News

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF OLDER PERSONS COMMEMORATED WITH REFRESHED 'GIFT OF AGE' STATEMENT, RECOMMITTED DECLARATION 
Age Friendly Edmonton 

In recognition of October 1, International Day of Older Persons, former City of Edmonton Poet Laureate Alice Major, in collaboration with stakeholders from the Age Friendly Edmonton ('AFE') leadership table, released a refreshed video statement celebrating the 'Gift of Age' in Edmonton. AFE is grateful to the many amazing older adults who offetheir talents, energy, and time to make Edmonton great. The refresh is accompanied by a re-commitment to the Edmonton Seniors Declaration, following the Declaration's 10-year anniversary. View the video online and help us spread the word by giving us a like or share on Facebook or Twitter 
CITY COUNCIL CELEBRATES OLDER EDMONTONIANS
City of Edmonton 
October 5, 9:35-10 a.m.  
Free 

Join Edmonton City Council via livestream for a Protocol item unveiling the refreshed "Gift of Age" video and a reading of the refreshed Edmonton Seniors Declaration. Members of the public can tune in to a livestream of the meeting at  edmonton.ca/meetings. 
More seniors sector news
(links to the ESCC News for Seniors Organizations web page)
Grants and Awards
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO RELEASE FINAL INSTALLMENT OF COVID-19 COMMUNITY SUPPORT FUNDING 
Government of Canada

On October 5, the Federal Government will release the final installment of the $350M in emergency community funding to alleviate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on vulnerable communities. Three national partners including United Way Centraide Canada, Canadian Red Cross, and Community Foundations of Canada will be responsible for the distribution of funding. Organizations seeking funding for community relief efforts can apply starting October 5. The deadline to apply for funding is October 31.  
NEW HORIZONS FOR SENIORS PROGRAM 2020/2021 INFO SESSIONS 
Government of Canada

The Government of Canada has launched the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) 2020-21 call for proposals for community-based projects across Canada.  Information sessions on the NHSP and developing grant proposals will be available by teleconference. Multiple dates are available for each of the sessions, so please click on the embedded hyperlinks to register for a date and time that works best for you. 
The deadline to submit applications for community-based projects is October 20, 2020 at 1 p.m. Mountain Standard Time. To apply for funding or for more information, click here.
More awards and funding news (links to the ESCC News for Seniors Organizations and Funding Options web pages)
Resources
COVID-19 HAS SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASED THE USE OF MANY TECHNOLOGIES AMONG OLDER CANADIANS: POLL
AGE-WELL

This article provides data about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on technology use among older Canadians. From Facebook to food delivery apps and fitness trackers, older Canadians have upped their use of many technologies and online services. A new AGE-WELL poll conducted by Environics Research in July 2020 shows that two-thirds (65 per cent) of Canadians aged 65 and older now own a smartphone, compared to 58 per cent in 2019, and most who own one (83 per cent) use it daily.
CRA RESUMING ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES: WHAT CHARITIES NEED TO KNOW
Canada Revenue Agency

After a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the CRA is gradually resuming additional activities, and may need to contact Canadian charities with a specific call to action. However, you should be aware of scammers pretending to be CRA employees. To protect yourself from scams, it's important to know when and how the CRA might contact you. Here is some information on CRactivities that are resuming and tips on how to recognize when the CRA is trying to contact you and your organization. 
SOCIAL ISOLATION RESOURCES
American Society on Aging 

The ASA has produced several informative research pieces about social isolation and loneliness among older adults. These articles provide a thoughtful dissection of this complex topic and propose solutions.  
More resources for sector staff
(links to the ESCC Resources web page)
Learning Opportunities
BOARD DEVELOPMENT SERIES
Government of Alberta - Community Development Unit 
Sessions start October 7, 1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. options available  
Free 

These live, interactive 1.5-hour webinars feature a great lineup of governance topics that discuss how board members can improve their knowledge and skills around board leadership. Upcoming topics include: 
  • Understanding Your Legal Landscape: October 7 
  • Board Roles and Responsibilities: October 14 
  • Legal Responsibilities and Conflict of Interest: October 21 
  • Organization Purpose and Planning: October 28 
  • Financial Responsibilities: November 4 
  • Risk Management: November 12 
  • Committees and Meetings: November 18 
  • Building a Strong Team and Effective Relationships: November 25  
If you have any questions or would like additional information, email CommunityDevelopment@gov.ab.ca 
HUMAN FACTORS IN HEALHCARE PART 3: MOCK-UP EVALUATIONS INFORM CAPITALCARE NORWOOD DESIGN
Institute for Continuing Care Education and Research (ICCER) 
October 14, 10-11 a.m.  
Free members; $15 non-members 

Human factors is the study of the interrelationship between humans, the tools and equipment they use in the workplace, and the environment in which they work. This webinar will focus on how Human Factors was involved in the CapitalCare Norwood Redevelopment Project to design a variety of rooms, including resident rooms, washrooms, medication rooms, and dialysis stations. Human Factors Specialists from the Health Quality Council of Alberta and Alberta Health Services conducted simulation-based mock-up evaluations with clinical staff from Norwood to test the design prior to construction. The presentation will include a project overview, description of the mock-up evaluation process, and how this influenced the final design. 
GET YOUR BOARD TO HELP YOU FUNDRAISE
Firespring 
October 14, 10 a.m. (Central) 
Free 

Are you a nonprofit trying to fundraise? You have a board-and believe it or not, your board should function as a fundraising machine. In this fundraising webinar, learn to: 
  • Assess your board's fundraising personality 
  • Motivate your board members to fundraise 
  • Set goals and kick off campaigns 
  • Create individual plans they'll rock 
  • Track without nagging 
  • Use goal attainment as board engagement 
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
Edmonton Chamber of Voluntary Organizations 
October 22, 2-4:30 p.m. 
$65 members; $95 non-members 

Are you a newer non-profit Executive Director or CEO eager to learn from an experienced local mentor? Apply to the Executive Director Mentorship Program and settle into your role by exchanging insight, opening new lines of communication, and expanding your network! ECVO has gathered non-profit leaders in the human services sector eager to become mentors to the next generation of leaders. The series partners newer Executive Directors or CEOs with fewer than 3 years of experience in the role with established leaders with 7+ years of experience leading organizations, offering opportunities to transfer knowledge and skills to those eager to learn.
More learning opportunities for staff/volunteers in the seniors sector (links to the ESCC Learning Opportunities web page)
Work Opportunities in the Seniors Sector
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Mill Woods Seniors Association 

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director supervises a staff of seven full time positions and provides leadership to members, staff and volunteers. View the detailed job description for more information about the role. View the posting for application instructions. The deadline to apply is October 9.  
GUARDIANSHIP/TRUSTEESHIP COORDINATOR
Sage Seniors Association 

Reporting to the Director of Operations, this position helps with private Guardianship/Co-Decision and Trusteeship applications and provides information regarding supported and specific decision-making options through one-on-one appointments and group presentations. View the detailed job description for more information about the role. View the posting for application instructions. The deadline to apply is October 13. 
PROGRAM FACILITATOR
ElderCare Edmonton

ElderCare Edmonton is a non-profit association that serves more than one hundred concurrent clients and families, with approximately sixty seniors attending programs daily. In this role, you will be part of a dynamic team delivering high quality therapeutic recreation for seniors. View the posting for full details and application instructionsApplications will be accepted until a suitable candidate is found. 
More work opportunities in the seniors sector
(links to the ESCC Sector Job Postings web page)
News and Events for Seniors
COMMUNITY LEAGUE PLAZA RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY 
Edmonton Foundation of Community Leagues 
October 3, 1:30-3 p.m.  
Location: Online 
Free 

The Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues (EFCL), which represents 161 Community Leagues in Edmonton, will be 100 years old in 2021. To celebrate this milestone, the EFCL has worked with the City of Edmonton on a significant upgrade to Hawrelak Park; one that celebrates and recognizes the amazing contributions Community Leagues and their volunteers have made to the very fabric and quality of life in Edmonton, while adding park features that everyone can enjoy. Celebrate by virtually attending the grand opening of the new Community League Plaza. Register to watch the ceremony online.  
WILLS WEEK
Edmonton Community Foundation and partners  
October 5-8 
Location: Online  
Free 

This annual event provides a series of free presentations that help Edmonton and area residents learn the value of creating and maintaining an up-to-date will. Join the Edmonton Community Foundation and a dedicated team of volunteer estate lawyers to answer your questions about will and estate planning. Get information about:  
  • Creating and/or updating a will 
  • What a will can and cannot do 
  • How a will can help save taxes for both you and your estate 
  • Why it is so important to have a will prepared with the help and expertise of a lawyer, accountant, and financial and estate planner 
HUNGRY? ORDER TASTY FOOD TO-GO
Mill Woods Seniors Association (2610 Hewes Way, 2nd Floor) 
2 for $5 OR 4 for $10 cinnamon buns; $8 lunch to go 

Mill Woods Seniors Association has an abundance of delicious food available for order. With gourmet options like mirin glazed salmon and spinach and feta stuffed chicken, you're sure to find something to suit your culinary cravings. While you're at it, pick up some cinnamon buns for that sweet tooth. We all gotta eat. Why not support a local seniors centre at the same time? Lunch-to Go is available MondaysTuesdaysWednesdays, and Fridays from 11 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Fresh-baked cinnamon buncan be picked up Thursdays from 10 until 11:30 am. For more information and to place your pre-order, please visit www.mwsac.ca/cafe or call 780-496-2997. Note, orders must be placed in advance.  
MANAGING GRIEF
Strathcona Place Seniors Society 
October 6, 1-2 p.m.  
Location: Online 
Free 

Everyone experiences grief but not everyone knows how to effectively manage it. 'Managing Grief' will validate how you are feeling and help you to identify healthy ways to manage your emotions. Register online. Following your registration, you will receive an email with a link and instructions on how to join the session.
LEARN MONOTYPE PRINTING 
SNAP 
Tuesdays, October 6-Oct 27, 6-9 p.m. 
Location: Online  
$150 

Explore printmaking at home using a variety of exciting monotype techniques. During this four-week online class you will create a series of monotype prints using direct inking techniques with a variety of tools while in the comfort of your own home. Learn how to use techniques such as trace monotype, brush and roller work, masks and stencils, offset printing, ghost prints, and chine collĂ©. A monotype supply kit will be available for purchase from SNAP for local participants and a further supply and tool list will be provided for those needing to purchase additional items locally. This class is recommended for beginner and intermediate artists. No previous experience is necessary.
MANAGING MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS SERIES
Sage Seniors Association 
Fridays, October 9-November 27, 11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.   
Location: Online  
Free  

This series of mental health courses provides a great opportunity to discuss mental health and wellbeing. Each week a facilitator will share information about a specific mental health topic, guide the group through meditative and calming exercises and allow for group discussion and sharing (if participants want to share). Improve your sense of wellbeing, learn about mental health best practices, and build a community with fellow participants. Come to one or all sessions.  
  • Mental Wellness in All Aspects of Life: October 9 
  • Transitioning Through Aging: October 16  
  • Understanding Anxiety and How to Manage It: October 23 
  • Combating Loneliness, Social Isolation and Depression: October 30  
  • Overcoming Grief: November 6 
  • Personal Relationships & Setting Boundaries: November 13 
  • The Importance of Sleep: November 20 
  • Creation of a Safety Plan: November 27 
To join, enter Zoom link Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/6578782877 or call 1-855-703-8985 (toll-free) and enter meeting ID: 657 878 2877. 
TAPPING AWAY STRESS
Caregivers Alberta 
October 13, 1-2 p.m.  
Location: Online 
Free 

The 'Emotional Freedom Technique', also known as "tapping" is a great way to relieve stress, pain, fear and many other troubling emotions. Tapping is a practices that anyone can use and it can be modified for limited mobility or capacity. Register to learn more about this calming wellness technique. 
17th ANNUAL LEARNING IN RETIREMENT SERIES
Jewish Senior Citizen's Centre 
Various dates and times 
Location: Online 
$70 member; $85 non-members (per person, per course)  


It's always fun to learn something new and the folks from Jewish Senior Citizen's Centre have a great selection of Fall classes to keep you busy. Explore the vibrant art museums of New York, learn why keyboard instruments have dominated music history, and examine points of transition in Jewish history in this engaging learning series. Take one or take 'em all! For registration instructions, including payment details, call 780-488-4241 or email jdic@shaw.ca. 
FRIENDLY CALLER PROGRAMS IN EDMONTON 
Various Seniors Organizations 
Free 

If you're feeling particularly isolated these days, you're not alone. Thelp connect older Edmontonians, several seniors organizations across Edmonton offering friendly calls. To get on a friendly call list, call "211" and press "2". You will be referred to a friendly call program to receive calls from a friendly volunteer on a regular, recurring basis. 
More news and events for seniors
(links to the ESCC News and Events for Seniors 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.