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CURRENT PROJECTS Together with Hub Partner Organizations, Council identifies where there are gaps in services and resources for seniors. Click on a button below to read more about current priorities for Hub collaborative actions. 西區老年人中心 老年人和集體的集體行動 西區老年人中心是一項計劃，旨在將當地的老年人和老年人服務組織聚集在一起，以確保西區社區成為老年人可以成長的地方。它起到提供信息“樞紐”的作用，增強人們對本地計劃和服務的認識。它在確定服務提供方面的差距方面發揮領導作用，並為老年人的問題提供社區支持。 Read more FOOD SECURITY Food security exists when all people, at all times, have physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life. Food is one of the first expenses to be reduced when one is struggling financially, and this disproportionally impacts vulnerable and marginalized individuals How is the Westside Seniors Hub involved with the Westside Food Collaborative? Read more

Let the voices and experience of loved ones living with dementia inform the planning of meaningful activities that bring joy to everyone involved! You will find some amazing tools below to help you engage and make a difference. 參與工具 社會上各地的利益相關者都可以在遇到認知困難的親人中增強適應力。每個人都努力爭取社會包容和對人格的認可，癡呆症患者及其照料者也不例外。 成功培養抵禦力的秘訣是什麼？ 癡呆症風險投資公司的 目標是接觸廣泛的利益相關者，並為社區組織提供工具，以有效地與遇到認知挑戰的人們互動。 讓我們給他們更多機會！如何？ 讓患有癡呆症的親人的聲音和經歷告知有意義的活動的計劃，這些活動將為每個參與其中的人帶來歡樂！您將在下面找到一些出色的工具，以幫助您參與其中並有所作為。 強有力的言語和方法 有意義的參與 簡潔的變革理由 什麼構成了西區？ 我們將西區老年人中心的集水區定義為： 安大略街以西，一直到包括UBC和捐贈土地 康沃爾街和福溪的南部 海洋大道以北 請注意，集水區不包括市區半島或格蘭維爾島。 如果辦事處積極服務於Westside的 高級職員， 歡迎其辦公室位於我們服務區域以外的合作夥伴加入我們 。 WHAT IS THE RECIPE FOR SUCCESS IN FOSTERING RESILIENCE? Dementia Ventures aims to reach a broad range of stakeholders and provide community organizations with tools to engage effectively with people experiencing cognitive challenges. Let’s give them more opportunities! And how? Let the voices and experience of loved ones living with dementia inform the planning of meaningful activities that bring joy to everyone involved! You will find some amazing tools below to help you engage and make a difference. Powerful Words & Approaches Concise Rationales for Change Meaningful Engagement Top of Tools for Engagement Concise rationales POWERFUL WORDS & APPROACHES CONCISE RATIONALES FOR CHANGE Practice Tools & Factsheets (I-CAARE) A Quick Guide To: Approaches ; PIECES of My Relationships (Guidelines, Questions, Family Supplement); Medicine Wheel: Preventing Dementia in Indigenous People by Aging Well ; The Pathway of Dementia Person-centered Language Guidelines Alzheimer Society of Canada “By being more conscious of the language we use, we can avoid reducing individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias to a series of labels, symptoms or medical terms.” Dementia & Language Dementia Alliance International Organizational philosophy:”Nothing about us, without us.” Approach conversations with and about people living with dementia using respectful language that does not stigmatize and demean. Media should reflect DAI's Core Beliefs. Why Arts-based Activities? Westside Seniors Hub, Vancouver, BC Rationale for social engagement through the arts, credible evidence, and links to model programs that demonstrate how arts-based creative activities can have profound impacts on people at every stage of the dementia trajectory. Flipping Stigma on Its Ear Toolkit Taking Action Against Stigma and Discrimination Associated With Dementia University of British Columbia, CIHR Action Research Project “The purpose of this toolkit is to recognize and respond to this stigma and discrimination…designed by people with dementia to help others – including other people living with dementia, service providers, physicians, family members and friends – to address the challenges of stigma and discrimination.” Hear from the experts who live with dementia – what they experience, how they respond to stigma and discrimination as advocates for themselves and others, how they build skills and competence. Powerful tools from people living with dementia with more being developed for support persons and researchers. What is the Building Capacity Project all about? Westside Seniors Hub, Vancouver, BC Meaningful Engagement MEANINGFUL ENGAGEMENT Tipsheet for accessibility & equity in online engagement MJ Wosk Centre for Dialogue, SFU, Burnaby, BC “It is important to consider how community members’ identities and experiences may impact their ability to learn about, access or participate safely in an engagement—and tailor plans to suit diverse needs.” Beyond Inclusion: Equity in Public Engagement MJ Wosk Centre for Dialogue, SFU, Burnaby, BC “Hearing from people with diverse lived experiences leads to more innovative ideas, better decisions, greater public support of outcomes…This guide is designed for individuals sponsoring or planning public engagement initiatives that will inform decision-making...outlines some factors practitioners can reflect on when scoping and designing engagement processes.” Healthy Community Engagement Action Guide PlanH, BC Healthy Communities Featuring community examples, resources, strategies and other useful information, this guide helps local governments plan their community input process to ensure…equity-centred, inclusive community engagement…to create healthier, more accessible communities. Making Your Workplace Dementia Friendly Alzheimer Society of BC Specific resources for professionals who are in legal, financial, housing, and recreation professions … ”to understand and recognize the signs of dementia…communicate in an effective, respectful way…think about specific ways they can support a person with dementia in their work and how their workplace may become more dementia friendly.…know what resources are available to them and their customers or clients.” Busting Dementia Stigma: One Children's Book at a Time WA Dementia Action Collaborative “Are you a parent, teacher or librarian who wants to help build dementia awareness and challenge stigma? Children’s books can be a great tool! The criteria below can help you evaluate children’s books and select ones that carry a respectful, stigma-busting message.” Back to Resources - Dementia Ventures

Would you like to help the Hub achieve its goals of creating a more inclusive community and increasing social citizenship of people living with dementia? Then please consider helping plan, implement and sustain meaningful activities. OPPORTUNITIES DEMENTIA VENTURES Would you like to help the Hub achieve its goals of creating a more inclusive community and increasing social citizenship of people living with dementia? Then please consider helping plan, implement and sustain meaningful activities. Here are some opportunities for community members to become involved in Dementia Ventures. Please contact the Partner Organization directly or send a message to the Hub for details. Postings will remain here until a Partner notifies the webmaster that a position is no longer available. KITSILANO NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE Kits House has launched a dementia awareness initiative. There are opportunities to join focus groups that will guide program development. There is a dementia buddies program with training to communicate and help people experiencing dementia live well in the community. Other awareness activities and conversations are planned to make our community more dementia friendly Click here to find out more. WESTSIDE SENIORS HUB COUNCIL The Hub Council is recruiting volunteers to join us and ensure that Westside neighbourhoods are places where seniors can thrive. We work collaboratively with Hub Partners on projects such as Dementia Ventures . For more information, please click here . SOUTH GRANVILLE SENIOR CENTRE Enabling Connections...A Tablet Lending Library South Granville Seniors Centre & Many Partners “The four elements of the Enabling Connections program are: a tablet lending library, digital literacy mentoring, a virtual senior’s centre, and knowledge sharing with other organizations. The Enabling Connections project is focused on creating connections between individuals and creating a sense of community and mutual support, peer to peer.” Project launched May 6, 2021. Information here FAQ here The Seniors Centre offers a monthly Happy Memories Café that is a safe place to share your experiences, participate in discussions and build lasting friendships. Click here for information. FIREWEED CLUB Dunbar Residents Association & Kitsilano Neighbourhood House The Fireweed Club is a collaborative project bringing a variety of free outdoor activities to seniors on the westside. These activities are open to any seniors who want to stay active, socialize and build relationships. People living with memory loss or other invisible challenges are welcome to come by themselves or to bring their friends and care partners. The Club seeks participants, program leaders and volunteers all year. More information here .

THE FIREWEED CLUB The Fireweed Club is a collaborative project bringing a variety of free outdoor activities to seniors on the westside during the summer months. These activities are open to any seniors who want to stay active, socialize and build relationships. People living with memory loss or other invisible challenges are welcome to come by themselves or to bring their friends and care partners. Summary of Summer 2022 activities: Kitsilano Neighborhood House Wednesday activities is here Dunbar Residents Association activities met on Tuesdays 1:00-3:00pm July/August at Balaclava Park -- W 29th Ave at Balaclava Street to work in the Pollinator Garden. Field trips visited community gardens around the City and neighbouring municipalities )

Check out the projects we've been doing and particicpating on since 2015. 過去的項目 DEMENTIA VENTURES September 2023 - March 2025 Additional PHAC funding allows Dementia Ventures projects to deepen their impact. Initiatives elsewhere in BC will involve people living with dementia and community members to create new engagement programs, and result in publication of an Action Guide that offers insights for communities building capacity for greater social citizenship by people experiencing dementia. DEMENTIA VENTURES - BUILDING CAPACITY PROJECT September 2019 - March 2023 Building Capacity for Meaningful Participation by People Living with Dementia , an initiative funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), aimed to enable people with dementia to participate in community life as full social citizens. The project was a partnership between researchers at the University of British Columbia and Lakehead University, and their community partners: members of the Westside Seniors Hub in Vancouver and the Northwest Dementia Working Group in Thunder Bay, a coalition of people with lived experience, care partners, and researchers. In Vancouver, where the initiative is known as Dementia Ventures, six Hub Partners implemented programs that created opportunities for active involvement of people with dementia, such as a virtual memory café, a buddy program, outdoor activities, and discussions among faith-based congregations. Read more about Dementia Ventures here and Hub Partners’ stories here . CYCLING WITHOUT AGE EVENT September 28, 2019 Cycling Without Age Vancouver, in association with Kitsilano Neighbourhood House and the Westside Seniors Hub, are hosting safe and scenic trishaw rides along the Arbutus Greenway on September 28th from 10:00am to 2:00pm. Trishaws are three-wheeled cycles where you sit in the front and experienced pilots pedal you from behind. Our mission is to break the elderly free from social isolation. Make them smile. Make new memories. And let them be part of society again and thereby renew their appetite for life itself. We give them the right to wind in their hair. Cycling Without Age is based on generosity and kindness. Event HUbBYTES NEWSLETTERS July, September, November 2019 and re-launched December 2021 - present In 2019 Hub Council began compiling resources of potential value to Hub Partner Organizations that we encountered as we attended events and made community contacts. The MailChimp illustrated newsletters are now sent out quarterly to Hub Partners and community members who sign up. Read current and past editions and sign up here . DEMENTIA PROJECT - HUB FIRST STEPS TOGETHER October-November 2018 Hub Council convened a working group of representatives from Partner Organizations to discuss and decide upon actions to be taken after a presentation about Alzheimer cafés and other dementia-friendly initiatives. At two meetings, some Guiding Principles were drafted. First Steps Together 2017-2018 WALK AND BE SEEN CAMPAIGN The 2017-2018 Vancouver Walk and Be Seen (WBS) campaign was a great success! The finale held in March included presentations by Safety Ambassadors from 17 organizations from Metro Vancouver. Seniors were involved in organizing neighbourhood Walk and Be Seen projects. For those who attended the finale, there was no doubt that many were Proud to be Seniors and Proud to be Seen-iors! During the campaign, volunteer Ambassadors spoke to seniors in their communities about pedestrian safety and the benefits of increasing their visibility in low-light conditions by wearing reflective or light-emitting gear. The comments, stories and survey results collected in this campaign clearly showed grassroots support for increased pedestrian visibility. 2018 WBS Report FORUM ON SENIORS HOUSING ON THE WESTSIDE OF VANCOUVER July 2017 The Westside Seniors Hub, through the Jewish Family Services Agency, received a grant from Vancouver Coastal Health to research seniors housing on the Westside of Vancouver. A researcher interviewed more than forty stakeholders, from housing experts to seniors with housing issues. The report Seniors Housing on the Westside of Vancouver is based on these interviews. The Hub then organized a half-day Housing Forum on April 26, 2017 to further explore housing issues with those interviewed and important stakeholders. The Forum included panel presentations on housing innovation by leaders from Kitsilano Neighbourhood House, the United Way of the Lower Mainland, LaneFab and Calling Ministries, and 36 participants joined two consecutive groups to explore key issues and formulate recommendations. Forum Report 2016-2017 WALK AND BE SEEN PILOT PROJECT Walk and Be Seen (WBS) was a volunteer pilot project on the Westside of Vancouver involving senior pedestrians. It was designed to promote walking during low-light conditions while wearing reflective apparel in response to statistics that show senior pedestrians experiencing the highest number of fatalities from collisions in Vancouver. The project registered 132 participants who agreed to wear free reflective gear (cloth sash or LED slapband), tally walks of any length, and provide feedback. Upon completion, 79 registrants completed a survey and provided comments. An Action Mini-Grant (VGH Trauma Services, Vancouver Coastal Health) provided initial funding with Kitsilano Neighbourhood House, Mountain Equipment Coop, the Jewish Family Services Agency, and WalkMetroVan contributing additional funds and administrative support. 2017 WBS Report 10th AVENUE HEALTH PRECINCT PLANNING UPDATES May 2017 The City of Vancouver Transportation Department undertook a two-phase public consultation process in 2015-2016 regarding redesign proposals for the West 10th Avenue ‘Health Precinct’ (Cambie to Oak Streets). Seniors, persons with disabilities, and many stakeholders provided feedback on those proposals. The Hub noted a few significant design changes as a result of citizen input. NATIONAL SENIORS DAY FAIR October 2015 Event ELDER ABUSE INFORMATION WORKSHOP June 2015 Event DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY TRAINING SESSIONS April 2015 A series of three training sessions with presenters from the Alzheimer Society of BC were arranged and offered to staff and volunteers of Hub Partner organizations and the general public. Report

We invite you to contribute your energy and creativity to plan, deliver and sustain Dementia Ventures. This is a collaborative effort driven by the needs of people living with dementia and their care partners. 癡呆症風險投資-參與其中 老年癡呆症患者的有意義的社區參與能力建設是一項共同努力，需要： 傾聽並回應需求 建立和加強關係 創造機會 我們邀請您貢獻自己的精力和創造力來計劃，交付和維持Dementia Ventures 。 這是由癡呆症患者及其護理夥伴的需求推動的協作努力。然而， 需要廣泛的技能和能力為他們帶來歡樂和機會 看看您 將如何提供幫助。單擊下面的鏈接以查看操作方法。 與老年癡呆症 護理合作夥伴 計劃負責 人一起的 志願者 職業 與老年人一起工作 Building capacity for meaningful community participation by people living with dementia is a collaborative effort that requires: identifying, expressing and responding to needs establishing and strengthening relationships creating accessible opportunities using diverse skills and abilities to have impacts We invite you to contribute your energy and creativity to plan, deliver and sustain Dementia Ventures . This is a collaborative effort driven by the expressed needs of people living with dementia and their care partners. Please click on the links below to see what your contribution could be. Person living with dementia Care Partners Program Leader Volunteer Professionals working with Seniors 如果您有興趣以以下角色之一加入Hub，Hub合作夥伴希望收到您的來信。 訪問“當前中心合作夥伴項目” 頁面，查看哪個項目最有吸引力，並與讚助該項目的合作夥伴聯繫，或者 請參閱“商機” 頁面，其中樞紐合作夥伴組織宣傳其最迫切的需求。

Dementia Ventures is a commitment by the Westside Seniors Hub Partner Organizations to offer diverse activities for people living with dementia and their care partners designed to reduce stigma and sustain quality of life. Check out the projects. HUB PARTNERS' PROJECTS Dementia Ventures i s a commitment by the Westside Seniors Hub Partner Organizations to offer diverse activities for people living with dementia and their care partners. These activities are designed to: reduce stigma sustain quality of life The projects listed below are partially funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada via the Building Capacity for Meaningful Participation by People Living with Dementia umbrella project. Current Hub Partner project planning began in early 2020 and is evolving all the time! COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS 2019-2023 Hub Partners want to foster more inclusive communities . They engage a wide range of community members in plans and conversations to build and change programs so they are more inclusive of people living with dementia. Partners worked on projects to achieve those objectives, and for some, the projects are ongoing. Translink Awareness-Building Placards Thanks to an Implementation Fund grant from the Building Capacity for Meaningful Participation by People Living with Dementia project, the Hub’s Council placed 210 awareness-building placards inside TransLink buses in Metro Vancouver during the summer of 2022. The three different designs developed by Building Capacity project team members Samantha Pineda Sierra and Heather Neale Furneaux, quote Action Committee members with lived experience from a special initiative known as The Flipping Stigma Project . These members’ comments reflect on what it feels like to be discriminated against because of their dementia. The campaign aimed to increase awareness and encourage open and respectful conversations about living with dementia. Even if you don’t travel on public buses, you will want to take a look HERE at these engaging placards. Occasionally you will still see a placard on a Translink bus! Kitsilano Community Centre Association offers a variety of physical, social, and multicultural programming sponsored two Memory Cafés in October aimed at gathering programming needs and ideas from people experiencing dementia and care partners An insightful report summarized responses and diverse strategies for next steps in programming. steps forward West Point Grey United Church TLC (The Lunch Club) is a program for seniors as well as people with living with dementia in the west side of Vancouver. In 2022-2023, vveryone participated in a bilingual (English & Cantonese) f our-part series about dementia and in group discussions. Pacific Spirit United Church Congregation members at Pacific Spirit United Church created an insightful four-part series looking at dementia from a community perspective. It's called Beacon *shining light on Dementia" that is available online here . DISCOVERING COMMUNITY ASSETS 2019-2023 These projects focus on identifying community members and services that can help build capacity to offer meaningful opportunities and adapt existing services to be more inclusive. The Building Capacity Project - Dementia Ventures Offers engaging programs in order to help organizations make existing offerings more inclusive. Informs future policies and priorities in community and health settings for dementia inclusive communities. Westside Seniors Hub - Transportation Initiative Explored and facilitate van-sharing and public transit challenges and solutions for seniors living with dementia. Trnaslink placards featuring quotes from people living with dementia intended to raise awareness about stigma Westside Seniors Hub Developed a website to showcase Partners' projects and opportunities to get involved Invited diverse community members to become involved Collaborated with UBC Centre for Community Engaged Learning students involved as Community Action Mobilizers to conduct asset-mapping of Vancouver's westside neighbourhoods and promote community resilience planning for shocks & stressors ONGOING PROGRAMS 2020-2025 Hub Partners adapted existing programs to be more inclusive and planning new programs.They appreciated having community members participate at every stage - planning, implementing and sustaining - to build community capacity. A.S.K. Friendship Centre develops meaningful activities & designs inclusive spaces purchases art supplies to diversify programs Dunbar Residents Association identified assets & gaps in services for seniors adapted Salmonberry Days for inclusive programming organized Fireweed Club for outdoor activities in Balaclava Park, including development of a pollinator garden that invites participation throughout the gardening season. Kitsilano Neighbourhood House promotes dementia awareness with staff and required volunteer and staff trainings for anyone working with older adults developed a Dementia Buddies for one-on-one participation in meaningful activities South Granville Seniors Centre Offers two Happy Memories Cafés English -language Café brochure here Spanish -language Café brochure here

Community Cafés ASK Friendship Society is seeking a broad and diverse perspective on future programs and services that ASK might provide for both older adults and caregivers in our new multipurpose 9,000 square foot facility in the Arbutus Redevelopment at Nanton Ave and Arbutus Street. In 2025, we are hosting a series of Community Cafés, each focused on engaging a specific community group. More information about opportunities to participate here . To take a survey click here . Please join the conversation! Your City, Your Voice, The City of Vancouver by-election for two vacant City Councillor positions takes place on Saturday, April 5th. A brochure describes who is eligible to vote, registration requirements, three ways to vote in advance or on election day, candidates on the ballot with links to their information, and in-person City voting locations - only community centres or City Hall. Make your voice heard on City issues of concern! Dying, Death, Burial, Bereavement Resource Fair Representatives of various organizations will be present to offer resources and discuss funeral and burial costs, advance planning, bereavement support services, and related resources. Learn what you can do to plan ahead. Free event, light refreshments, registration encouraged, 604-558-5709 or seniorsoutreach@jfsvancouver.ca or online via QR code on poster . Date: Thursday, April 3, 2025 10:00 am-1:00 pm Location: 1825 West 16th Ave., Canadian Memorial Centre for Peace

癡呆症風險投資公司……建設能力 癡呆症風險投資公司正在為癡呆症患者創造積極的社區機會，使其保持活躍和參與。 請參與 為癡呆症患者 創建一個更具包容性的社區 並提高社會公民意識 。 癡呆症風險投資公司正在建設社區能力，以使癡呆症患者參與有意義的活動！ Westside老年人中心合作夥伴組織正在努力調整當前計劃，並創建新的計劃 ，這些計劃 具有包容性，並使癡呆症患者能夠根據自己的興趣進行社交。 與癡呆症一起生活應該包括追求自己的激情！ 提供各種機會的社區表明，人們可以繼續為癡呆症診斷之外的社區生活做出積極貢獻。 想參與其中嗎？如果是這樣，是嗎？ 遇到認知困難 護理夥伴 項目負責人 與老年人一起工作的專業人士 積極進取的志願者 您 可以協助中心合作夥伴組織發展有吸引力的可持續性藝術 ，社交 ，健身 和志願者 活動。 中心夥伴希望癡呆症患者及其護理夥伴表達他們的需求和願望。合作夥伴還需要項目負責人，積極進取的志願者以及與老年人合作的專業人員的幫助。請 參與進來 ！ 噸 他的大局觀......由長者及其照顧合作夥伴的集體行動 從2019年至2023年，西區老年人中心將專注於 癡呆症風險投資 與 不列顛哥倫比亞大學和安大略省桑德貝的萊克黑德大學。 加拿大公共衛生局正在資助一項名為“ 提高老年癡呆症患者有意義參與能力的能力” 的總體項目 。 這是根據2019年機構全面計劃資助的首批基於社區的研究項目之一：加拿大癡呆症策略 。 Dementia Ventures is building community capacity to include people living with dementia and their care partners in meaningful activities! When communities provide diverse opportunities for these people to engage, they can remain vibrant contributors to community life well beyond a dementia diagnosis. Living with dementia shall include pursuing one’s passions! Dementia Ventures invites you to get involved in creating a more inclusive community and increasing social citizenship for people living with dementia. Join us in adapting current programs or creating new ones that are inclusive and enable people living with dementia to socialize according to their interests. Westside Seniors Hub Partner Organizations have a variety of opportunities underway to be more inclusive. Join any of our current projects described here . There are opportunities for anyone to help make communities more dementia-friendly. Get Involved Current Hub Partners Projects SoundBytes Series Fireweed Club News & Events Resources WE NEED DIVERSE PARTNERS TO HELP BUILD CAPACITY FOR GREATER INCLUSION! Everyone's skills and experiences can make a difference. Perhaps you are experiencing cognitive difficulties a care partner a program leader a professional working with seniors a motivated volunteer YOU can assist Hub Partner Organizations develop appealing and sustainable arts , social , fitness and volunteer activities. Hub Partners want people living with dementia and their care partners to express their needs and desires. Partners also need the assistance of program leaders, motivated volunteers, and professionals working with seniors. THE BIGGER PICTURE... COLLECTIVE ACTION BY ELDERS AND THEIR CARE PARTNERS From 2019-2023, the Westside Seniors Hub is focusing on Dementia Ventures in collaboration with the University of British Columbia and Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Find out more about the UBC and Lakehead University research team members here . The Public Health Agency of Canada is funding the umbrella project called Building Capacity for Meaningful Participation by People Living With Dementia . It is one of the first community-based research projects funded under a 2019 Agency comprehensive plan: A Dementia Strategy for Canada .

Enter site to know more about the Help Lines. HELP LINES SAIL: Seniors Abuse & Information Line Confidential service for older adults who are experiencing abuse or mistreatment, offering information and support. Learn More Alzheimer Society - First Link® Dementia Helpline If you have questions about Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, call the Alzheimer Society of B.C.'s First Link® Dementia Helpline for information and support (toll-free): Dial: English: 1-800-936-6033 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.) - Cantonese and Mandarin: 1-833-674-5007 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Punjabi: 1-833-674-5003 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Web: https://alzheimer.ca/bc/en/help-support/find-support-bc/first-link-dementia-helpline Learn More Ability411 Assistive Technologies & Equipment Web-based service for answers to questions and practical information about technologies, tools and equipment that increase independence and wellbeing for BC seniors, and support their families and care teams. Multilingual: Use an online translation app Web: https://www.ability411.ca/find-answers Ask a question https://www.ability411.ca/ask-new-question Learn More bc211 Information & Referral Services bc211 is a British Columbia, non-profit organization that provides a free, confidential, multilingual (160 languages) information about community, government and social services in BC. As a response to COVID-19, bc211 accepts applications for the Safe Seniors, Strong Communities program, both from seniors wanting help and from volunteers willing to step up and help with non-medical needs. Multilingual : Yes (160 languages) Hours : 24/7 Contact: Dial: 211 Text: 211 Web: https://www.bc211.ca Twitter: @bc211Help Email: help@bc211.ca Learn More 811 HealthLink BC Free provincial health information and advice phone line available 24/7. Learn More Greater Vancouver Seniors Distress Line Offers emotional support for seniors in distress. Available 24/7 at 604-872-1234. Learn More BC Seniors' Advocate Provides information and referrals related to health care, housing, income supports, and personal supports for seniors. Learn More Greater Vancouver Seniors Distress Lines Provides emotional support for seniors in distress within the Greater Vancouver area. Learn More bc211 Information & Referral Services 24/7 multilingual service providing information on community, government, and social services across British Columbia. Learn More Seniors Transportation Options Need help getting around British Columbia? This is an initiative of B.E.S.T. (Better Environmentally Sound Transportation). You can find various transportation options: public transit, HandyDart, as well as community shuttle services, taxis and private driver services,volunteer ride programs, and walking groups in various regions of the province.. Web here : https://www.seniorsonthemove.org/transportation-options-for-seniors-metro-vancouver#/ Learn More 311 City of Vancouver Helpline for information about city operations and services, as well as reporting issues. Learn More Crisis Centre of BC Immediate access to barrier-free, non-judgmental, confidential support and follow-up to youth, adults, and seniors throughout 24/7 phone lines and online services. The Distress Services program provides support to vulnerable individuals across British Columbia. Multilingual: Yes (140 languages) Hours: 24/7 distress phone line and online chat services between noon and 1:00am Contact: Dial: Vancouver Coastal Regional Distress Line: 604-872-3311 Anywhere in BC 1-800-SUICIDE: 1-800-784-2433 Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789 Web: https://crisiscentre.bc.ca/ Chat: Adults: www.CrisisCentreChat.ca (Noon to 1am) Learn More Ability 411 Assistive Technologies & Equipment Offers information on assistive technologies and equipment to help seniors maintain independence. Learn More Seniors Transportation Options An initiative by B.E.S.T. (Better Environmentally Sound Transportation) providing various transportation options for seniors in British Columbia. Learn More SAIL: Seniors Abuse & Information Line SAIL is a province-wide confidential service for older adults, and those who care about them, to talk to a trained intake worker about abuse or mistreatment. Seniors will receive information and support about issues that impact their health and wellbeing. Multilingual: Yes, upon request (180 languages) Hours: 8am-8pm 7 days/week (excluding holidays) Contact: Dial: 604-437-1940 or toll-free 1-866-437-1940 TTY Equipment: 604-428-3359 or toll-free 1-855-306-1443 Web: http://seniorsfirstbc.ca/programs/sail Learn More Alzheimer Society - First Link® Dementia Helpline Offers information and support for individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease or other dementias. Learn More 811 HealthLink BC 811 is a free-of-charge provincial health information and advice phone line available in British Columbia to speak to a health service navigator, who can help you find non-emergency health information and services; or connect you directly with a registered nurse, a registered dietitian, a qualified exercise professional, or a pharmacist. Multilingual : Yes (130 languages) For translated resources in French, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Punjabi, Spanish and Vietnamese Go to https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/services-and-resources/translated-resources Hours : 24/7 Contact: Dial: 811 Web: https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/ For nursing services: https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/nursing-services For dietitian services: https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/dietitian-services For pharmacist services: https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/pharmacist-services For qualified exercise professionals: https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/physical-activity-services Learn More BC Seniors' Advocate Speak with an Information & Referral analyst or consult website about health care, housing, income supports, personal supports, transportation. Seniors’ services research reports and Long-term Care Quick Facts Directory. Provide feedback on seniors’ services. Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday (except statutory holidays) Contact: Dial: toll-free 1-877-952-3181 or in Victoria 250-952-3181 Web: https://www.seniorsadvocatebc.ca/ Learn More AssistList: Home Health Equipment Exchange “Helping simplify the exchange of home health equipment for our community” with blog, resources and searchable database of equipment listings, …”facilitating safe exchanges across Metro Vancouver by creating a network of Community Exchange Zones to help us facilitate safe exchanges across Metro Vancouver.” Non-profit operated by staff and volunteers; funded by partners and donors. Multilingual: Use an online translation app Hours: equipment list is available 24/7 here Contact: online here with questions Learn More 311 City of Vancouver Help line within the City for seeking information about operations and services or to report problems. During COVID-19 only use 311 for urgent requests or language interpretation. Otherwise use online chat and email at City website. Multilingual : Yes Hours : 7am to 10pm daily Live chat 9am-4pm Contact: Dial 311 within Metro Vancouver. Outside Vancouver: 604-873-7000 App: VanConnect Web: https://vancouver.ca/your-government/contact-the-city-of vancouver.aspx Learn More AssistList: Home Health Equipment Exchange Platform for exchanging home health equipment, facilitating access to necessary items for seniors. Learn More

Collective action by and for seniors to build a more responsive and resilient community for seniors on the Westside of Vancouver, BC. 西區老年人中心 老年人和集體的集體行動 Building a more responsive and resilient community for seniors on Vancouver’s Westside through the power of collective action. OUR KEY GOALS To identify and promote awareness of Westside seniors’ issues and priorities. To improve programs and services for seniors on the Westside through collective action by Hub Council, Hub Partner Organizations, and community organizations. To encourage seniors to become more engaged in their community. Read Our Help Brochure WHAT IS THE HUB STRUCTURE? The Hub is comprised of Partner Organizations and a Hub Council. Hub Partner Organizations serve seniors on the Westside and have an interest in collaborating with others to support seniors in their community. They meet quarterly to share information about resources and assets, identify emerging issues, and collaborate on building a range of integrated services for seniors. They work with the Hub Council and serve on working groups to act on identified issues and represent the Hub to the public and various constituencies. Partners include public entities, non-profits, and faith-based organizations that provide services for seniors. Hub Council is composed of several Westside volunteer seniors who have knowledge of seniors’ issues, experience working on action-oriented teams, and skills to work collaboratively with Partner Organizations, each other, and community members. They meet monthly to identify priorities and direct movement towards collective action. WHAT CONSTITUTES THE WESTSIDE? 什麼構成了西區？ 我們將西區老年人中心的集水區定義為： 安大略街以西，一直到包括UBC和捐贈土地 康沃爾街和福溪的南部 海洋大道以北 請注意，集水區不包括市區半島或格蘭維爾島。 如果辦事處積極服務於Westside的 高級職員， 歡迎其辦公室位於我們服務區域以外的合作夥伴加入我們 。 WHAT CONSTITUTES THE WESTSIDE? The concept of a seniors hub first emerged through a 2009 research report entitled Sustaining Seniors Programs through the Neighbourhood House Model , which focused on opportunities for seniors at Kitsilano, Kiwassa & South Vancouver Neighbourhood Houses. In 2010, South Vancouver Neighbourhood House received pilot funding from Vancouver Coastal Health's SmartFund, City of Vancouver, United Way, and Vancouver Foundation to develop the South Vancouver Seniors Hub and produce an Implementation Plan and Seniors Hub Toolkit. This led to Kitsilano Neighbourhood House receiving a 2013-2014 Vancouver Foundation grant for a Seniors for Seniors Project: Building a One-Stop Place for Westside Seniors . One of the aspects of this project was to develop a Westside Seniors Hub. A number of community members and seventeen senior-serving Westside organizations met at a visioning roundtable in January 2014 to explore the potential benefits and nature of a Westside Hub. Several subsequent planning roundtables developed the structure of the Hub as well as Partner Collaborative Agreements, wrote a Hub Council Member job description, recruited and interviewed Hub Council applicants. By February 2015, appointments to the Hub Council had been made and the first joint meeting of Partner Organizations and Hub Council members took place. SPONSORS 集線器如何出現？ 老年人中心的概念首先出現在2009年的一份研究報告中，該報告題為“通過鄰里房屋模式維持老年人計劃”，該報告重點介紹了基斯蘭奴，奇瓦薩和南溫哥華鄰里房屋的老年人機會。 2010年，南溫哥華鄰舍獲得了溫哥華沿海衛生局– SmartFund，溫哥華市，聯合之路和溫哥華基金會的試點資金，以開發南溫哥華老年人中心，並製定實施計劃和老年人中心工具包。 這導致基斯蘭奴社區住宅獲得了2013-2014年溫哥華基金會的一項針對老年人的項目的贈款：為西區老年人建立一站式場所。該項目的一方面是開發Westside老年人中心。 2014年1月，許多社區成員和17個高級服務西區組織在一次遠景圓桌會議上開會，探討了西區樞紐的潛在利益和性質。隨後的幾個計劃圓桌會議確定了樞紐的結構。此外，他們起草了《合作夥伴合作協議》，撰寫了樞紐理事會成員的職位描述，並招募和採訪了樞紐理事會的申請人。 到2015年2月，已經任命了樞紐理事會，並且合作夥伴組織和樞紐理事會成員舉行了首次聯席會議。自那時以來，該中心一直在為各種項目 尋求撥款，並由有償承包商運營，基斯蘭奴社區住宅組織的行政支持以及志願者的努力。 贊助商 自成立以來，該中心已獲得多家贊助商的財務支持。我們感謝他們代表老年人對樞紐的使命和目標的信任和認可。 返回頂部

HOUSING FOR SENIORS Top of Housing for Seniors Affordable rentals are currently difficult to find in Vancouver. When their tenancy is threatened or ended, many elderly tenants on fixed incomes are unable to relocate anywhere near their former homes, even temporarily. New buildings, even those with a percentage of below-market rental units, are not yet ready for tenants. What are Westside Seniors Hub members doing about housing for seniors? Recent updates listed first . December 2024 WSH Partner representatives and Council members followed up on our August meeting with Vancouver–South Granville MLA Brenda Bailey to develop a Letter of Support for expansion of the Seniors Services Society of BC’s Seniors Housing Information and Navigation Ease (SHINE) program. The Letter to Minister Bailey recommends 2025 and ongoing funding by the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions to ensure more British Columbian seniors experiencing precarious housing get navigation support, so their health and wellbeing do not deteriorate while suitable affordable housing is being developed. November 2024 Two WSH Council members participating in the City’s Older Persons and Elders Advisory Committee (OPEAC) Housing Subcommittee were privileged to attend the BC Non-profit Housing Association (BCNPHA) Housing Central conference, thanks to arrangements made by SPARC BC CEO and BCNPHA staff. The annual conference features success stories of how non-profit housing providers, municipalities and businesses have overcome challenges and developed diverse solutions to affordable housing dilemmas. The free BCNPHA e- newsletter and website provide case studies and insights for continuing WSH housing activities. October 2024 Council invited WSH Partners to participate in feedback on the City’s Social Housing Initiative and representatives attended SHI Open House consultations to speak with Planners September 2024 VCH Population Health facilitated contacting the City of Vancouver’s Assistant Director Housing Policy and Regulation | Planning, Urban Design & Sustainability to discuss implementation of the City’s Tenant Relocation and Protection Policy developed in conjunction with its Broadway Plan and Housing Vancouver 10 Year Housing Targets . Meeting time pending. Council representatives attended United Way BC webinar Making Rental Housing Affordable for Seniors and People with Low-Incomes and benefit from summaries of data and research in its two Fact Sheets – Key Messages and Defining the Problem and Finding Solutions . August 2024 Council representatives met with Brenda Bailey, MLA and candidate for a new Vancouver-South Granville riding to discuss issues in the WSH Briefing Note on Seniors Housing and potential actions. Council representatives met with Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) Medical Health Officer (Housing), ED Population Health, and the Lead for Seniors’ Healthy Public Policy to discuss their roles and current involvement in seniors’ housing issues relevant to WSH Briefing Note on Seniors Housing . Council prepared a Briefing Note on Seniors Housing summarizing concerns about senior tenants being negatively impacted by developments in the Vancouver housing market and the actions and support needed for this vulnerable population. Council representatives met the BC Housing’s Assoc. VP Supportive Housing & Homelessness, Operations Division to discuss potential short-term shelter spaces in Chalmers Lodge and other supportive housing operated by BCH. Advocated for westside seniors experiencing housing precarity to remain in their neighbourhoods while seeking more stable housing. July 2024 Council representatives contributed to City's Older Persons and Elders Advisory Committee (OPEAC) Housing Subcommittee drafts of Motions to City Council regarding the need for senior-specific shelters and transparency regarding implementation of the Broadway Plan's Enhanced Tenant Relocation & Protection Policy . Encouraged WSH Partners to advocate with City of Vancouver Councillors for adoption of the Seniors Housing Strategy . June 2024 Council members began attending monthly OPEAC Housing Subcommittee meetings as guests to become familiar with their community partners and contribute to their action plans. Representatives from a dozen WSH Partner organizations met at a quarterly Partners’ meeting to discuss five Seniors’ Housing Issues for Action: Follow-up to 2024 Q1 Partners’ Meeting . Council member attended 411 Housing Forum to liaise with other local housing advocates. May 2024 Council members explored Seniors Services Society of BC’s (SSSBC’s) Seniors Housing Information & Navigation Ease (SHINE) program with WESN’s Housing Navigator. Recruited a volunteer to participate in SHINE’s four online training sessions. April 2024 The City of Vancouver’s D raft Seniors’ Housing Strategy was released for public feedback. P ublic and WSH Partners invited to participate in submitting comments by May 16th. March 2024 Council prepared a resource list: Housing Resources Referenced at Quarterly Housing meeting Brief summary: Seniors Housing Issues for Action: Follow-up to 2024 Q1 Partners’ Meeting February 21, 2024 Representatives from a dozen WSH Partner organizations met at a Quarterly Partners’ meeting to discuss seniors’ housing affordability . They were joined by guests from the City of Vancouver, City’s Older Persons & Elders Advisory Committee, Healthy Aging United Way BC, Hey Neighbour Collective & SFU Housing Solutions Lab, Premier’s Legislative Office, Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House, and South Vancouver Seniors Network. Presentations at Quarterly meeting: Healthy Aging UWBC presentation by Dr. Laura Kadowaki and Dr. Beverley Pitman City of Vancouver Older Persons & Elders Advisory Committee (OPEAC) by Dr. Marc White SFU Housing Solutions Lab Exploring Housing Options for Older Adults Design concepts by Michelle Hoar February 2024 Council prepared some briefing materials to inform WSH Partners: Selected Housing Navigation Supports & Trainings and Selected Recommendations from UWBC’s Aging in Uncertainty: The Growing Housing Crisis for BC Seniors report (Nov 2023) & IRPP’s Affordability Action Council report (Feb 2024) Entire UWBC Healthy Aging report Aging in Uncertainty and City of Vancouver Seniors’ Housing Strategy: What We Heard report (July 2023) January 2024 A questionnaire circulated by WSH Council to its Partner Organizations produced: A Snapshot: What Partner Organizations are Seeing, Hearing and Doing. Fall 2023 Survey of Hub Partner Organizations identified top priority issues of concern: Housing, Food Security, Phase 2 Dementia Ventures, Caregiver Support, Emergency Preparedness. Return to Top of Housing for Seniors

Volunteers are essential partners in making Hub Partners' programs meaningful opportunities for participants. Your interactions with people living with dementia become important connections to community and diversify the kinds of activities that Hub Partners can offer. VOLUNTEERS YOU can help participate in community conversations assist with social, creative & physical activities provide technical expertise & logistical support interview & write stories Volunteers are essential partners in making Hub Partners' programs meaningful opportunities for participants. Your interactions with people living with dementia become important connections to community and diversify the kinds of activities that Hub Partners can offer. Hub Partners would like to hear from you! Visit the Current Hub Partner Projects page to see which project is most attractive and contact the Partner sponsoring it.

New Grant Opportunities 2024 November 15 We are not aware of any Grants that are currently available. As we learn of new Grants, we will post them here. Please return to see any new Grants. To learn more about past Grant Opportunities click Past Grant Opportunities

JOIN THE HUB There are many ways to become involved in the Hub. We are always looking for new members. BECOME A PARTNER If you are a public, non-profit, or faith-based organization that serves seniors on Vancouver’s Westside, we would like to collaborate with you! 成為合夥人 現有合作夥伴 JOIN HUB COUNCIL Learn more about our Westside Seniors Hub Council, composed of volunteer seniors or those who work with seniors. We are continuously recruiting for new members. Learn about the Hub Council Contact us to join the Hub PROJECT OPTIONS In 2024 we currently have three major projects. Food Security, Housing for Seniors, and our ongoing Dementia Ventures project. Learn More about Projects Dementia Ventures Opportunities