One-time funding from the Ontario government is making the new Resident Ambassador Program possible, as introduced by the County of Simcoe Wednesday.
The program is meant to enhance the wellbeing and build stronger connections for residents at the County's senior services locations. Those include Simcoe Village, Georgian Village, and Sunset Village.
Simcoe County received $24,410 from the Ontario government's Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility. It comes through the Seniors Community Grant, which aims to help local non-profit community groups and organizations make projects possible to help adults aged 55 and up.
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“The Seniors Community Grant Program is helping protect the well-being of seniors by providing opportunities to stay active, connected and engaged, said Minister for Seniors and Accessibility Raymond Cho in a news release. "We are honoured to support the County of Simcoe’s Resident Ambassador Program which will engage residents and ambassadors alike and have a positive impact on the atmosphere of the homes.”
This program provides a formal way for seniors to welcome new residents by sharing their experience and support activities. The County says residents play a key role in shaping the program and touching on their peers' wellbeing.
“Connection is an important part of our lives, even more so as we age. The Resident Ambassador Program is a great example of how community can be fostered and grown within these Villages, and provides a meaningful impact on the lives of all who live there," said MPP for Barrie-Springwater-Oro-Medonte Doug Downey in a news release. "Ensuring seniors have the tools they need to shape this program is key to its success, and I am thrilled the government is able to provide the necessary funding. I look forward to seeing the impacts of this program on both the Villages and the broader senior’s community.”
Ambassadors in this program will help organize events, greet visitors, start clubs, host art and woodworking sessions, and build phone networks. It's all in an effort to connect their fellow residents to their interests and sharing their experience and talents with their neighbours.
“Empowering residents to take on leadership roles within their Villages will help to foster a strong sense of belonging, purpose, and pride, benefiting both Ambassadors and the wider resident community. We’re grateful to the province for supporting our efforts to create meaningful opportunities that empower residents to stay active, engaged, and connected.” - Warden Basil Clarke
