With Alberta recognizing Seniors' Week 2011 this week, a multi-stakeholder committee recently formed to identify and address seniors needs in the community is moving forward, says town councillor Myron Thompson.
The committee has already approached Mountain View County about becoming involved with the committee's work.
“We are putting everything together and putting our plans together,” said Thompson. “I've talked to the county and they'd like to join in to make this part of our GAP (Greenwood Area Partnership, a joint municipality body that promotes the area) and work with us. They would like to help us get going on the seniors issues. We are looking forward to cooperation with the county.”
Thompson said seniors issues already identified in town include housing, long-term care, and local health facilities.
“There's a ton of stuff out there,” he said.
The committee will include stakeholders such as the Sundre hospital, Mountain View Seniors' Housing, Greenwood Neighbourhood Place, and others.
“We want to see if we can organize a gathering of stakeholders willing to put forward some effort,” he said.
Seniors' Week 2011 runs from June 6 to 13. This year's theme: Vibrant Leaders in the Community recognizes seniors' continued contributions.
Meanwhile, Mary Anne Jablonski, Minister of Seniors and Community Supports, said, “Seniors continue to be an integral part of our communities, as mentors, volunteers and leaders.”
“We respect their wisdom and knowledge, and their sharing of life experiences,” said Jablonski. “It's only fitting that we set aside one week a year to officially acknowledge the richness seniors add to the lives of all Albertans.”
Seniors Advisory Council says Seniors' Week is a fitting time to “celebrate what seniors mean to our great province.”
“I want to personally invite every Albertan to participate in this celebration that brings the whole province together to honour seniors in our communities, said Dave Quest, Council Chair and MLA for Strathcona.
Seniors have a wealth of life experience and they are a valuable resource to our young people, he said.
“As our neighbours and grandparents, caregivers and volunteers, the roles seniors play in our province are innumerable and meaningful,” he said.
Seniors will always be invaluable leaders in our province, sharing their wisdom and knowledge to enrich our communities, towns and cities, he said.
