The Link-Letter October 3, 2014
v. 09-40
For more information click on the links provided.
New items are highlighted.
INDEX
News for Agency Staff here
Events for Agency Staff here
Work Opportunities in the Senior-Serving Sector here
Items for Board Members here
Items for Seniors here
Volunteer/Work Opportunities for Seniors here
Submissions for Link-Letter can be sent to:
Fax: 780-428-3844 / #255 Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre
8330-82 Avenue
Edmonton, AB T6C 4E3
Back issues of Link-Letter
You can find back issues of Link-Letter at http://www.seniorscouncil.net/archived-link-letters
NEWS FOR AGENCY STAFF
1. Jeff Johnson has been appointed Minister of Seniors. Premier Prentice outlines specific areas of focus for the new ministry in a mandate letter to Minister Johnson. Work on an elder abuse strategy, provincial housing strategy and addressing fire code and safety issues in seniors accommodation are key elements of this mandate.
2. The Building Corporate Relationships – A Toolkit for Nonprofits outlines a five-step process that can help non-profit organizations build effective relationships with the corporate sector and other community partners. The toolkit was created by Alberta Culture with input from
non-profit stakeholders, community investment managers and fund development professionals.
3. The 2014 Municipal Census confirms that Edmonton’s senior population is growing. Seniors age 65+ make up 12.4 per cent of the Edmonton population in 2014 compared with 10.7 per cent in 2012. When seniors 55-65 years are taken into account the percentage rises to 24.4 per cent in 2014. Learn more about the 2014 results and the comparison to previous years.
2014 Municipal Census Data
2014 / 201265+ / 89,860 / 12.4% / 77,257 / 10.7%
55-65 / 86,521 / 12% / 76,317 / 10.6%
4. With the launch of the Seniors Information Phone Line, it’s important for seniors organizations to update the 211 Community Resource Department about changes to their organization’s programs and services. There is a new email address to send updates to —. Updates can also be provided by phone at
780-392-8722.
5. The Alberta Association of Services for Children and Families (AASCF) is selling some round conference-style tables which are suitable for meeting spaces or banquet functions. Offers will be accepted for the tables (see photo) which are available in 2 sizes: 4 feet and 5 feet. Contact Katie at or 780-428-3660.
6. Check out this excellent resource for all things technology in the non-profit sector. TechSoup Canada offers valuable insights and tips through their newsletter, blogs, articles and discussions. Recent topics include free ways to send large files electronically, tips for creating low cost videos, selecting a crowdfunding platform, social media campaigns and project management tools for non-profits. The website also lists a variety of free/low cost events and webinars on technology topics. TechSoup Canada also connects non-profits with discounts on technologies through their Technology Donation Program.
7. Volunteer Alberta has issued an update on the proposed policy changes to the RCMP's Police Information Check (PIC) program. Read the latest information on fingerprinting, timeline for implementation and costs.
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EVENTS FOR AGENCY STAFF
1. October workshops offered by Volunteer Edmonton are Engaging Seniors as Volunteers on October 6, Volunteer Management Fundamentals on October 16 and Ethics and Fiscal Management for Volunteer Managers on October 27.
2. Reach Edmonton presents Working with Immigrant and Refugee Communities on October 7. At this one-day workshop participants will explore how culture affects communication, relationships and workplaces, learn the differences between immigrant and refugee status and practice intercultural skills.
3. Volunteer Edmonton offers a new opportunity for people who lead volunteers. THINK TANK Conversations will be held every second month and will cover topics that are timely and/or pose a challenge to the voluntary sector. The free sessions offer a chance to problem solve, brainstorm and share ideas. The first discussion takes place October 8 from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at The Support Network (#400, 10025-106 St) and the topic will be How can we utilize groups of volunteers? Learn more about the upcoming session.
4. Multi-cultural community development is the focus of the Connecting Us All networking conference taking place in Edmonton October 16 and 17. This conference is intended to connect ethno-cultural community leaders with each other and with mainstream organizations, helping to promote networking and learning through sharing and connecting people to resources. Registration is free for community members and students. Learn more and register on the conference website. Contact Gemma Dunn at 780-429-4962 or for more information.
5. Sector staff are encouraged to attend the second annual Seniors Friendly Community League Workshop to network with community leagues that want to work with seniors. This workshop offers community league volunteers an opportunity to learn about the needs of seniors, get ideas for programming and gather information on best practices and resources. The workshop will be held October 23 from 5 to 9 p.m. at SEESA (9350 – 82 Street). RSVP by October 17 to Habib by emailing or calling 780-437-2913.
6. The Edmonton Chamber of Voluntary Organizations (ECVO) presents Beyond Board Basics 2014 on November 8. A first time offering in Edmonton, this Board Leadership conference is your opportunity to learn from some of Canada's top experts in the field. A series of expert-led, advanced level workshops will challenge your beliefs about what is possible. You will leave with new knowledge, new approaches and the motivations to apply them in your organization. Early Bird admission closes October 10 so register now.
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WORK OPPORTUNITIES IN THE SENIOR-SERVING SECTOR
1. The Mill Woods Seniors Activity Centre is currently hiring for the position of Administrative and Volunteer Coordinator. In this 35 hour a week position, administrative duties include providing support to the Executive Director; maintaining records, filing and computer files; and helping with preparation of reports and proposals. Other duties include helping to implement plans for special events such as fundraising efforts and other in-centre special activities, and coordinating volunteerism within the centre. Candidates should be a mature self-starter with good oral and written communication skills, supply and inventory control skills and reporting skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel is necessary. Familiarity with on-line tools, an interest in marketing and promotions, and commitment to volunteerism are important assets for the position. View the complete job description. Submit resumes to or Mill Woods Seniors Activity Centre, 2nd Floor, 7207-28 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T6K 3Z3. The position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.
2. North West Edmonton Seniors Society (12963 - 120 Street) is hiring a Part-Time Cook. Candidates must have a food handling certificate or be willing to obtain it. Cooking experience is required. Hours of work are from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday. Some Friday’s are required for special events. Forward resumes by email to or by fax to 780-452-7537.
3. Sage is recruiting for an English as Another Language Instructor. This contract position is responsible for offering English as Another Language classes which run for 38 weeks over the course of the year. Each session is 1.25 hours in length with an additional hour provided for each five hours of instruction for preparation time. Five classes per week will be offered ranging from absolute beginners to more advanced learners. The instruction follows a curriculum developed specifically for older adult learning. Qualifications include English as a Second Language teaching certification, minimum 2 years related experience, and understanding of the unique needs of seniors. Visit the Sage website at www.mysage.ca for the full job description and application details. Submit resumes by October 3.
4. Sage is seeking a Part Time Guardianship - Trusteeship Coordinator to provide education and support to individuals making application for Guardianship, Trusteeship and other Co-Decision making options of a dependent adult. This position provides one-on-one support, group presentations and telephone support. In addition the position will provide public education sessions regarding Personal Directives and Power of Attorney. Qualifications for this position include a Human Services Degree or Diploma and experience or a familiarity with legal documents. Visit the Sage website at www.mysage.ca for the full job description and application details. Submit resumes by October 3.
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ITEMS FOR BOARD MEMBERS
1. The Building Corporate Relationships – A Toolkit for Nonprofits outlines a five-step process that can help non-profit organizations build effective relationships with the corporate sector and other community partners. The toolkit was created by Alberta Culture with input from
non-profit stakeholders, community investment managers and fund development professionals.
2. Volunteer Alberta has issued an update on the proposed policy changes to the RCMP's Police Information Check (PIC) program. Read the latest information on fingerprinting, timeline for implementation and costs.
3. On October 6 Volunteer Edmonton offers a workshop on Engaging Seniors as Volunteers.
4. Volunteer Edmonton offers a new opportunity for people who lead volunteers. THINK TANK Conversations will be held every second month and will cover topics that are timely and/or pose a challenge to the voluntary sector. The free sessions offer a chance to problem solve, brainstorm and share ideas. The first discussion takes place October 8 from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at The Support Network (#400, 10025-106 St) and the topic will be How can we utilize groups of volunteers? Learn more about the upcoming session.
5. The Board Basics: Roles and Responsibilities webinar offered by Vantage Point provides current and prospective board members of not-for-profit organizations with valuable information to develop an effective and engaged board. The webinar takes place November 7 from 8 – 9:00 a.m. (PST) and costs $20. Click here for more information and to register.
6. The Edmonton Chamber of Voluntary Organizations (ECVO) presents Beyond Board Basics 2014 on November 8. A first time offering in Edmonton, this Board Leadership conference is your opportunity to learn from some of Canada's top experts in the field. A series of expert-led, advanced level workshops will challenge your beliefs about what is possible. You will leave with new knowledge, new approaches and the motivations to apply them in your organization. Early Bird admission closes October 10 so register now.
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ITEMS FOR SENIORS
1. The Edmonton Building Communities that Create Health website has added some interactive features that will make it easier for you to contribute to creating and supporting health and wellness in Alberta. You can pitch an idea for a project, discuss a project currently underway, share a resource, or pose a question once you create a profile.
2. The City of Edmonton’s Housing Opportunities Program for Edmonton (HOPE) offers a grant of up to $20,000 to help low-income Edmontonians make repairs to their homes. HOPE will help qualifying homeowners bring their homes to a minimum standard of health and safety relating to plumbing, heating, electrical, structural, fire safety, disability modifications and energy efficiency. Applicants must own and occupy their homes. Seniors and persons with disabilities are given priority. Review the HOPE website for more information on eligibility requirements.
3. A study by Age Wave/Merrill Lynch called Health and Retirement: Planning for the Great Unknown explores the potential impact of health and health care on retirement and offers strategies to achieve a healthier and more financially secure retirement.
4. Review the Healthy U website for an informative series of articles on the benefits of physical activity for older adults. Does strength training really help? Does using Nordic walking poles offer added benefits? Get some great tips to be healthier through physical activity.
5. Consider participating in a research project that seeks to understand how older LGBT adults prepare for end-of-life, seek and consider care, and engage their networks of support. Participants should be aged 60 years or older; identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender; living with chronic conditions such as arthritis, HIV, diabetes, etc. or caring for someone which chronic conditions and have some internet/email experience. To participate in this project call 780-298-4138 or email .
6. Be part of a live audience in a reenactment of three films directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Watch these stories come to life in the style of a 1940s radio broadcast. Hitchcock Radio Show, October 1-5 at Fort Edmonton Park. To purchase tickets, call (780) 496-7381 or go to www.fortedmontonpark.ca.
7. Strathcona Place Senior Centre hosts their annual Falling Leaves Bazaar on October 4 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Every room at the centre (10831 University Ave) is filled with books, puzzles, jewelry, arts and crafts, pottery, handmade sewing, quilting articles and much more. The $1.50 entry fee treats you to delicious cake and beverage in the ‘Tea Room’ and provides the chance to win amazing prizes.
8. The art exhibit Potpourri — 50 years of dabbling, drawing and snapping life’s experiences, delights, and characters will be on display from October 7 to 29 at the Strathcona Place Senior Centre. The exhibit features a collection of oils, caricatures, and photos by Cliff and Rosemarie Cunningham, Peter Letendre, and Mike Yamada. You’re also invited to the Art Reception Open House on October 8 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
9. The Jewish Senior Citizen’s Centre is offering a Learning in Retirement series which includes sessions on Classical Music of Russia and its Political Climate, Prejudice and the Arab Spring, Canada and the Arctic, and Israel: The Unending Dilemma. More details on the sessions which run in October and November are available in the brochure or by calling 780-488-4241.
10. The Art of Aging Conference takes place October 9 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church Hall (200 Boundary Road, Spruce Grove). Tickets are $25 and are available at Stony Plain FCSS (4905-51 Ave, 780-963-8583), Spruce Grove FCSS (#105, 505 Queen St, 780-962-7618) or Parkland County Office (53109A HWY 779, 780-963-3233) Advance tickets only. Presentations include the Alzheimers Society of Alberta, Emergency Preparedness and AB Seniors. Entertainment, door prizes and lunch are included. Contact Deanna Butz at 780-963-8644.
11. Sage is hosting a Thanksgiving Buffet on October 9 beginning at 11:30 a.m. The deluxe buffet includes thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings plus salads, cranberry sauce, dessert and coffee/tea for $15.95 (members) or $17.95 (non-members). Enjoy or dance along to live music from “Danielle & Linda” during and after dinner. Purchase tickets by October 6. Call 780-423-5510 ext. 301 for more information.