As the days begin to shorten and we start to feel a change in the air, our CRNs wrap up outdoor activities and kick-off September with open-houses and community workshops. Here are a few highlights from around the province as we say goodbye to summer and jump into fall.
Summer Wrap-Up
Cowichan CRN held their fourth annual Aging Well Expo this summer. 54 community agencies and businesses serving seniors in the Cowichan region set up booths at the Expo. Approximately 350 people from the community attended, made up of seniors, those representing seniors, family members and additional agencies. A total of six workshops were held on site and well attended. The refreshments and door prizes were donated by local businesses. Each attendee received a BC CRN swag bag containing information on Marie’s Story, Henry’s Story and additional promotional items.
Our newest CRN recently opened in August and made its debut with a table at the Whistler’s Farmer’s Market throughout the summer. The Whistler CRN was created under the auspices of the Mature Action Committee (MAC) of Whistler, this arrangement creates awareness of the BC CRN in addition to serving as a source for volunteers. Information sheets about the operation of BC CRN as well as the enticing swag were on display for the crowds. On hand to answer questions about the work we do: Director of Administration, Sharon Johnson, Regional Mentor, Sarah Gibson, and Coordinator Lyn Stroshin. Many people appreciated the opportunity to discuss a variety of topics relating to older persons in the Whistler community. Plans are underway to hold an appreciation event this fall for the volunteers of the Whistler Dementia Program.
The joint ribbon skirt and shirt project by Nelson CRN and Circle of Indigenous Nations Society (COINS) was such a success the first time that they hosted another event. Participants connected over stories, food and sewing, strengthening cultural knowledge and building intergenerational relationships. These workshops have been so successful that there is now a waiting list of people interested in participating.
Gabriola CRN participated in a data collection project in partnership with Gabriola Health and Wellness Collaborative, including Gabriola Health Care Foundation and the Gabriola Health Connect Registry. The census and community health indicator data was collected for the purpose of assessing the programming needs of the community in response to extreme climate events.
Fall Kick-Off
The Lillooet CRN started hosting a series of Elder Connect Senior Gatherings and Dialogue Sessions with two events already held in July and September. These events aim to provide a space for elders and seniors to meet together and share life stories to connect across cultures. The goal is to work on bringing ideas into action and designing what the future looks like for seniors in their communities. They are currently working on updates to the local Senior Guide and planning for the 2024 Elder Connect Senior Expo. Through collaboration with other local stakeholders, they are also working with the United Way to bring the Better at Home program to the Lillooet area. Two more events are scheduled for October and November, to learn more please contact the CRN Coordinator.
The Saanich Peninsula CRN partnered with SHOAL Centre for an open house event to kick off the fall season in early September. The purpose of the event was to introduce the SPCRN and SHOAL Centre to local residents and show how working together helps keep the community safe. A booth showcasing information about the BC CRN and resources for hand-out included local information in addition to regular promotional items. SPCRN representatives were on hand to chat with event attendees about BC CRN and upcoming free events and seminars.
South Okanagan CRN partnered with Desert Sun, Osoyoos Boston Pizza and Buy Low Foods to host two ladies luncheons this fall. The goal is to foster connection among older women in the community and reduce isolation. Their first picnic lunch and field trip to visit the fruit stands in Keremeos was early September, with another planned for early October. To learn more contact the CRN Coordinator.
Explore our website to learn more about BC CRN or connect with your local CRN for more information or resources.
