BUILDING CAPACITY FOR ETHNO-CULTURAL SENIORS

Seniors from the diverse communities have a wealth of life experience and knowledge which they obtained through-out the years, however, not all of them have had the chance to pursue the rapidly developing technology or to increase their awareness of the many seniors programs that could provide them with tremendous support in this age of life.

Building Capacity of Ethno-Cultural Seniors is a project that MIAG conducted over the past few months involving seniors from different ethno-cultural communities in Peel. It maintained seniors independency by increasing computer literacy and internet communication. The program was very effective step to reduce their isolation, to maintain their network, and to enhance their connection with service providers especially in the health sector. Youth who speak the same languages were involved as tutors.

More over it facilitated their integration by involving them in workshops and providing them with knowledge of rights and responsibilities as immigrants or citizens, retirement and pension programs, the health care system in Canada, fall prevention and first aid, how to use technological tools, banking and insurance, elder abuse prevention, community participation and developing a personal life plan.

This program widened their scope of available services, empowered them and had a very positive impact on their self-confidence and well-being. It increased their access to municipal, regional, provincial and federal services for seniors. Short physical exercise was applied after each computer class.

On July 15, seniors celebrated their achievement in a celebration that was organized at Cawthra Seniors Centre. Everyone enjoyed the speeches which were very informative. The kind words conveyed for everyone involved in the process was much appreciated. The lively music kept everyone tapping their toes and a few partygoers showed off their dancing skills – even Elsa! Everyone enjoyed the delicious food.

Then came the moment of excitement: time for the well-deserved certificates to be handed
out! Each person excitedly walked up to Elsa and Santiago to claim their certificates, then turned around and proudly showed off their accomplishment. There was genuine happiness all around.

“This program changed my life”; “I have become aware of some computer applications I did not know and I found that there is more than one way to access programs and services.” Many said that they would like to enjoy an advanced course in the future.

We want to thank New Horizons for the seniors' program and for the financial support as well as all partner agencies who contributed generously to this very much needed program.

Elsa Galan, Project Coordinator