FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 4, 2019
Pelham, ON – Pelham’s Senior VIP program is the newest way seniors in town can volunteer, thanks in part to funding received from the Government of Canada's New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP).
The Senior VIP program encourages and engages seniors wishing to be more involved in community and social activities. Seniors have a breadth of knowledge and skills but may feel discouraged to volunteer or contribute in meaningful ways.
The Meridian Community Centre (MCC), a designated Seniors Active Living Centre, presents multiple opportunities for the expansion of recreation, culture, and wellness programming, as well as community programming for the entire community. The Seniors VIP program allows volunteers to play a critical role in the Town’s creation and inclusion of community programming.
“We’re thrilled to be awarded this grant,” said Vickie vanRavenswaay, director of recreation, culture, and wellness. “Our seniors are vital to this community and the MCC, so it’s only natural this program highlights both. We look forward to recruiting our first group of VIP ambassadors and sharing with everyone the great things happening in Pelham and at the MCC.”
According to StatsCan data, 40 per cent of Pelham's population is over 55 years of age and 29 per cent is over 65, representing life-long residents and older newcomers relocating to the community.
“The VIP program is an opportunity for Seniors who are looking for meaningful volunteer experiences,” said chair of the Pelham Seniors Advisory Committee. “With our talents, knowledge and experience, we can make valuable contributions to our community, and we invite those interested to join us.”
Led by a Senior VIP Working Group comprised of members of the Pelham Seniors Advisory Committee, senior residents, and other stakeholders, town staff will coordinate the formation of the Senior VIP program, including the development of a formal mandate for the Senior VIPs, recruitment and selection processes, a training program, mobilization plan including communication and promotion, evaluation processes and a sustainability plan. A successful Senior VIP program will lead to a broader, intergenerational VIP program for the municipality.
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For more information, please contact:
Marc MacDonald
Communications & Public Relations Specialist
905-892-2607 x309
mmacdonald@pelham.ca
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