Sunshine Coast Community Services (SCCS) is offering a new initiative this month – iConnect Ideas. The program is a mini-series of informal dialogue sessions around the topic of intergenerational connection. Program organizers hope to gather information on the interests, needs, and experiences of those in our community as it relates to this topic.
The Sunshine Coast has a growing population of seniors, and an expanding number of young families. After receiving feedback from participants and community members about intergenerational relationships, SCCS is exploring opportunities for these groups to connect.
“I constantly find myself having conversations, both personally and professionally, about the positive impact that intergenerational interactions can have for both the young and old,” says Anna Verspoor, Better at Home program lead.
“Rather than just expanding our programs to include more intergenerational initiatives, we decided to take a step back, and create space to nurture dialogue. We want to engage our staff, participants, volunteers, and the wider community, and see what comes next.”
iConnect Ideas will start on Oct. 10, and run for four weeks, on Thursday mornings from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Gibsons and Area Community Centre. Anybody interested in the topic is invited to attend. The meeting space is child friendly, so participants are welcome to bring children or grandchildren along. No RSVP is required, and you’re welcome to join for one session or attend all four. iConnect Ideas is being facilitated by staff involved in existing programs that work with older adults in the community: Better at Home, Move and Play, and the SCCSS Volunteer Program.
To find out more, please get in touch with Anna Verspoor at [email protected] or 604-989-6171.
– Submitted
