WESN NL_March 2024

west end seniors’network Tech Coaching Classical Guitar concert

and

Andrea add: Tax Clinic

FEBRUARY 2024

In this Issue

MARCH 2024

In this Issue

3

In Focus

4

Hearing From

4

Tax Clinic

5

Programs and Events

6

Programs and Events

7

March 2024 ｜ Activities & Events

8-9

Tech Help

10

Community Services

11

Stay in the Loop

12

Kay’s Place

13

Clothes & Collectibles

13

Staff Profile; Yarn Artisans; Dinner Club

14

Get to Know Us

15

THE WEST END SENIORS’ NETWORK Vision A Vancouver community that empowers and supports older adults in healthy, involved, fulfilling lives.

Mission To enhance the quality of life of older adults by providing social, recreational, cultural, educational and supportive activities and services that foster connection and inclusion in the broader community.

Our Place We respectfully acknowledge that we gather on unceded, occupied, ancestral, and traditional homelands of the Coast Salish peoples: xʷməθkwəy ̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh ̓ (Squamish) and Səl ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.

ON THE COVER

Tech Coaching

page 10

Classical Guitar concert

page 12

Andrea add: Tax Clinic

page 5

Equity, Diversity, Inclusion West End Seniors’ Network commits to a diverse, inclusive, equitable, and accessible environment in which members, clients, staff, volunteers, and board feel respected, valued, and included regardless of gender, age, race, ethnocultural identification, ethnicity, religion, immigration status, socioeconomic status, life experience, housing status, heritage, national origin, ability, sexual orientation or identity, disability, education, or bias. We commit to non-discriminatory practice, with equal opportunities for employment, volunteering, and advancement.

RESPECT POLICY At the West End Seniors’ Network (WESN) we strive to provide a safe, inclusive and welcoming space for all who enter. We value and celebrate the diversity of our senior community. In order for our community to be respectful of all we uphold the following: •

All persons are treated with respect, patience, kindness and understanding and we recognize and celebrate the uniqueness of each individual.

•

This is a shared space. We work together to maintain a safe and welcoming environment at all times.

•

We respectfully acknowledge that we gather on the unceded, occupied, ancestral, and traditional homelands of the Coast Salish peoples: xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and Səl̓ ílwətaʔ/ Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.

•

All are welcome here without judgement regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, financial status, culture, heritage, race or ethnicity, language, immigration or family status, faith and beliefs, or political affiliation.

You are always welcome at WESN. But, if there are behaviours that conflict with our respect policy, it will be that person’s behaviour that is asked to leave until a mutual resolution can be found.

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In Focus this month TECHNOLOGY

IN THIS ISSUE YOU WILL FIND:

•

Information about a new WESN community service, Tech at Home, coming soon.

•

An outline of our Tech Help program and its volunteers, who share their knowledge and skills so generously with our members.

•

Details on the Calendar page about our Ted Talks. John, the host, has led these sessions for six years, dedicating considerable time to handpick each Talk. Among the Talks chosen for this month, he has included a number of technology-related topics to watch and discuss.

These titles, in particular, jumped out at me: •

Why AI is incredibly smart and shockingly stupid; The transformative potential of AGI and when it might arrive; and When AI can fake reality, who can you trust?

•

Finally, because March is Fraud Prevention month, we have provided some basic information about phone and online scams targeted at seniors and some ways to avoid them.

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Hearing from

e n i d u

Cla

D

igital technology is all around us and is increasingly unavoidable, even for those who shy away from cell phones, tablets, and computers. It can be hard to keep up with the rapid advances in technology, though, so this month we are highlighting the outstanding efforts of the West End Seniors’ Network and their work supporting members to engage with technology while remaining safe and comfortable online (did you know WESN has offered Tech classes for over 20 years?). Whether you are marching boldly into the digital era or just shuffling in with a cup of tea – WESN has you covered.

I hope that you have been enjoying this dry and mostly bright start to the New Year. I have noticed the crocus peeking out and an increase in people out walking in our community. The air smells different and there might even be a bit of a spring in our steps.

This month we turn our attention to Technology whether we are making a purchase at the grocery store or looking at photos of friends and family, we seem to be encountering technology more and more. It’s important to learn how to avoid scams and fraud online. Be wary and keep your personal information confidential.

March 8th also marks International Women’s Day - I think this is a perfect tie into our technology theme! Did you know that most of the first computer programmers were women, including Ada Lovelace, who invented the science of computer programming between 1842 and 1843?

And a vast majority of women were the early coders - the human computers of the 1950’s.

Let’s not forget Dorothy Vaughn (1910-2008) who said ‘I changed what I could, and what I couldn’t, I endured.’ She is known for being a respected high school math teacher turned “human supercomputer” for NASA. Wishing you all a wonderful March - be sure to pop

by Barclay Manor one day and say hi.

TAX CLINIC • STARTS March 4th to April 25th • Mondays 10 AM to 1 PM and Thursdays 10 AM to 4 PM • Drop-in only, no appointments

Who is Eligible for this service?

Only seniors that make $35,000/year or less or senior-led households that make $45,000 or less can use this service

Participant must have a simple tax situation: 1. Employment, pension, support payments 2. RRSPs, scholarships, fellowships, bursaries, grants 3. CPP, disability/employment insurance, social assistance 4. Interest under $1,000

Participants must be able to access 1. 2022 Notice of Assessment or 2022 Tax return summary 2. 2023 tax slips (for example T4, T5) 3. Any relevant income tax slips and receipts

Please note >>>>>>>>

We cannot work with anyone who is self-employed or has any international income sources (outside CAN and USA).

LOCATION Back basement entrance Barclay Manor Multipurpose Room > Drop-off only, no appointments > Bring photo ID and all paperwork > Parking is limited, not guaranteed > wesn.ca/income-tax-clinics

D ate s

Mondays

: from 10 am to 1pm (closed A pril 1st) Thursday s: 10am t o 1pm March 21s t, 28th, April 25th 10am to 4 pm March 7th , 14th, April 4th, 11th, 18th

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Programs & Events RSVP 604-669-5051 | INFO@WESN.CA

Spanish Classes Starting in March the Spanish Beginners class will move to a cohort system:

March Birthday Tea Thursday, March 28 | 3:30 - 5pm If you are a member whose birthday is in March, you are warmly invited to our birthday celebration! Join us for tea, coffee, cake, and a good time!

•

Each session will be able to accept 12 students.

•

Students will move together through a 3-month course.

•

Students must purchase a workbook for $22 (speak with Yathu if this cost prevents you from registering).

Neighbours Helping Neighbours for Emergency Preparedness Workshop:

•

Students need to register at the beginning of March, and no drop-ins are allowed.

•

Please note: Once completed and advanced to Intermediate, a class cannot be repeated.

Thursday, March 28 | 1-3pm.

Delivered by Building Resilient Neighbourhoods.

Please RSVP at 604-669-5051.

This workshop is designed to strengthen community bonds between neighbours and learn how to work together to prepare for emergencies. Gain practical skills, share experiences, and discover how to support each other in times of need.

West End Living Library 8 March | Duane Lawrence The writing of his book Sammy Squirrel & Rodney Raccoon - Far from Stanley Park Duane will share how he developed the story and how he worked with the illustrator to create this picture book for younger readers eager to go on an adventure with Sammy and Rodney.

Meet the Classical Guitar 22 March | Lawrence Clayton and Otto Von H.O.P.E. Hold On Pain Ends - a story about recovery Lawrence and Otto will share their experience of IV drug addiction and their escape from all the craziness they have left behind.

Their journey of recovery to a much happier place continues.

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Wednesday, March 6th | 1pm The Vancouver Classic Guitar Society invites you to a free concert at Barclay Manor. Classical guitar is a type of instrument, a style of playing, and a rich repertoire that can range from Bach to the Beatles. You’ll hear the most beautiful music with several guitarists performing, including the outstanding Alec Pearson, along with top students from the UBC School of Music. The guitar has been called ‘an orchestra in a box’.

Come and find out why.

Programs & Events RSVP 604-669-5051 | INFO@WESN.CA

Nowruz Celebration

Outtrip with Jeanette to Cataro Cat Café

Thursday, March 21st | 2 - 5pm

Tuesday, March 19th | 12pm - 3pm

Celebrate and learn all about Nowruz, the Iranian New Year, with Food, Music and dancing!

Looking for a puurfect way to spend the afternoon? Join Jeanette for a trip to the Cataro Café! Enjoy a coffee, pet adorable and friendly cats, and experience the benefits of Pet Therapy!

Max capacity is 12. The cost for entry is $11 to be paid at Barclay Manor.

Food Safety and Preservation Workshop w/ Serena Chu Friday, March 22nd | 3 – 5pm Join Serena for a workshop on what you can do to safely preserve your food to make it last longer and stay tasty!

Participants will meet at Barclay Manor at 12 noon and take transit to and from the cafe (666 E Broadway).

Nidus: Personal Planning Presentation Friday, March 1st | 1– 2:30pm

Service Canada: CPP, OAS, and CDCP info session

Personal planning is about planning now for the future, when you may need help making decisions, managing your affairs, or both. This includes creating legal documents that name individuals you trust and who know you best. Learn what you need to do to get your affairs in order at this informative seminar.

Monday, March 11th | 3:30 - 5pm Join Leon Sadownik from Services Canada for a discussion on the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), and Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). You’ll learn all about how you can access these services, how to apply for them and the best way to use them.

St. Patrick’s Day: Paint the town green!

Friday, March 15th | 3 – 5pm Celebrate St. Patricks Day with music, games and a traditional Irish dance performance with Eire Born!

February 2024 M O N DAY

T U E S DAY

W E D N E S DAY

February 19 9 am

10:30–11:30 am Heritage Harmonies

10 am–noon Barclay Manor Yarn Artisans

10am–12 pm Barclay Manor Yarn Artisans

11:15 am–12:45 pm

10am–noon

10 am–11am French Conversation

11:30 am–12:30 pm Outdoor Walking Group

February 28 10:30 - 11:30 am

11:15 am–12:30 pm

12:30–4 pm Barclay Visual Arts Group

10:30 am–1 pm Strum & Sing-a-Long with Tara

February 26 11:30 am-12:30 pm

1–3 pm Poker and Tea Time

February 14 11am - 2 pm

11:30 am–12:30 pm Spanish for Beginners

1:30–3:30 pm (FULL)

12–1 pm

1–4 pm Bridge (WECCA)

3–4 pm

1–2:45 pm German Conversation Circle

1–3 pm

3:30-4:30pm

February 7 1 - 3 pm

ESL Beginners with Chris

1:30–4:30 pm

1–3:30 pm

Offsite: Walking/Out Trip 1:30–2:30 pm

Offsite: Food/Drink Onsite: Guest Event

We’re closed MONDAY, FEBRUARY 19 for FAMILY DAY

Offsite: Community Event Onsite: Partner Event

February 28 1:30pm - 3 pm 3–4:30 pm Spanish Conversation with Isis 3 - 4 pm 3:30–4:30 pm

FRIDAY MOVIES February 16th

4–5 pm

The Skin We’re In: Pulling back the curtain on racism •

Urgent, controversial, and undeniably honest, The Skin We’re In is a wake-up call to complacent Canadians that pulls back the curtain on racism.. Follow celebrated journalist, Desmond Cole, as he researches his hotly anticipated book.

February23th A Bite of China: Who makes the spiciest food?

•

For thousands of years, China’s five tastes did not include

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February 28 4 pm February 21 5:30 pm

Activities & Events

SIGN UP WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31

T H U R S DAY

F R I DAY

S U N DAY

10–11:30 am TED Talks & Discussion

February 23 9:15 - 1:15 pm

February 25 11 am

10–10:30 am

10 am–noon Tech Help with Stuart

10:30–11:30 am

10 am–1 pm Tech Help with Samuel

TED TALKS

11:30 am–12:30 pm

February 9 & 23 10:30 - 11:30 am

February 8th

Outdoor Walking Group

Westend Living Library

•

12pm–2 pm Karaoke with Lan

11–noon Spanish Intermediate with Alicia

This country runs on 98 percent renewable electricity

•

The Truth About Human Population Decline

•

The Encyclopedia of Invisibility — a home for lost stories

•

Why I gave my teenage daughter a vibrator

1–3 pm

12 –1 pm

February 15 2 -3:30 pm

February 9 1 - 2:30 am

February 29 2 - 3:30 pm

February 23 1-4 pm

February 22 2 - 5 pm

February 16 & 23 1:30 pm

February 22 3 - 5 pm

1:30–3:30 pm

3–4 pm

February 15th •

How to fix fashion and protect the planet

•

3 practices for wisdom and wholeness

February 16 1:30-3 pm

•

3–4:30 pm Ukulele Practice Group

The tech we need to fight workplace ageism

2–4 pm

February 22th

4–5 pm

2–4 pm Men’s Shed with Earl 3:30–5 pm

•

Lessons from my father, Alexey Navalny

•

What does “wealth” mean to you?

•

The ordinary people doing extraordinary things in Ukraine

CHOOSE TO MOVE February 5th Social Connectedness presented by COSCO ~ Seniors’ Health and Wellness Institute This workshop examines the social determinants of health and well-being.

February 12th Motown Valentine’s Dance Dress up and come out to get your groove on!

February 26th Foot and Ankle Health presented by an Occupational

February 29th •

How to make learning as addictive as social media

•

My quest to end the horror of gun violence in the US

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Tech Help

W

ESN’s popular Tech Coaching program has over 15 volunteers who provide more than 25 hours of tech coaching per week. If you have a question, it is likely they will be able to help!

Members can book weekly one-hour sessions at the front desk for the current month only.

Our tech volunteers are dedicated, experienced and knowledgeable. Some of them speak other languages, too, so check with the front desk if you prefer to work with someone who can speak Russian, Mandarin, Cantonese, Portuguese, Farsi, Hindi, Punjabi or Thai.

TE

ON LIS

Y

AL

RR

Tech volunteers look forward to spending time with members.

Nitish told us “I feel loved AMIR coming here.”

SL E AT R

ELLA

AN

I TA

RONALDO

PARKER ST UA

DI

NI

MI

TI

TR

SH

Y

RT

•

Email, texting, voicemail, Zoom, and other applications

•

Cell phone set up and use, as well as what phones can be used for

•

Printing from the onsite computers

•

Some hardware issues (or support to find credible repair shops)

•

Barclay Manor Computer Lab

•

Computers are available for drop-in use Monday to Friday, with some exceptions; please see the posted schedules.

•

We have 3 Windows PCs with Internet and printing: $.25/pg colour, $.10/pg black/white.

Large jobs can’t be accommodated.

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N

Cell phones, tablets, and laptops

RE

N

•

WA

RO

What can they help with?

Community Services

FRIENDLY CALLING | FRIENDLY VISITING | GOLDEN GUYS | GROCERIES | LIGHT HOUSEKEEPING | MINOR HOME REPAIR | TRANSPORTATION | ERRANDS & TASKS

ASK US 604-669-5051 | INFO@WESN.CA

Tech at Home Service Exciting news! Our new service, Tech at Home, is launching soon.

Tailored for members who prefer learning from home, we’re committed to closing the gap between technology and seniors, ensuring everyone can enjoy the wonders of modern innovation.

What is Tech at Home?

Tech at Home offers personalized assistance, catering to the unique needs and preferences of our members, whether you’re a tech-savvy individual interested in exploring new gadgets, or someone just getting started. Our dedicated team is here to assist you every step of the way.

What Does Tech at Home Offer?

•

Volunteer Assistance | A friendly volunteer will come to your place to provide hands-on help with setting up devices and learning software.

•

Personalized Training | Our volunteers will provide one-on-one sessions for mastering technology basics or social media at your home.

•

Device Setup and Troubleshooting | From setting up new devices to troubleshooting technical issues, our team will ensure that your technology works seamlessly..

•

Stay Connected | Learn online communication tools, such as Zoom, that can help you stay wellconnected to your loved ones.

Watch for information on getting started with Tech at Home.

JAVA Social

Java Social is for anyone looking for meaningful social engagement and connection. Every week members will discuss different topics, quotes and reflections. Share, grow and laugh together in a supportive and fun environment.

Our group will be limited to 15 participants. If you are interested in taking part, make sure to register with Lisa at 604-669-5051, or by emailing choosetomove@wesn.ca

Join us on March 5th for the introduction of Java Social at the West End Seniors’ Network—we’re excited to kick off this innovative program!

If you know anyone who could benefit from this group, please let them know about it.

Java Social meets every Tuesday from 2:30 to 3:30pm at Barclay Manor.

Do you receive Light Housekeeping services from WESN? Make it easier to give us your 2023 Notice of Assessment by having your taxes done at the WESN tax clinic (see page 5 for details).

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Stay in the Loop Tech and Fraud Security for Seniors

by Art Harrison, volunteer

H e ll o Gr It’s M andma?

I’m i n b i g ic hae l .

I n e e t ro u b l e d yo ur he an d lp!

March is Fraud Prevention Month in B.C. Unfortunately, fraud is considered the most prevalent crime affecting seniors.

Reputable companies do not contact customers for this reason.

Historically, much of the fraud committed was through the mail, over the phone, or even inperson. Today, most fraud occurs via technology, since many people now use mobile phones, tablets, and computers for banking, shopping, managing credit, and communication.

Do not give these callers any information and never give anyone you do not know remote access to your computer.

Seniors can be attractive targets for tech-savvy criminals because they are sometimes less familiar with using these online tools.

The most common phone or online strategies targeted at seniors are: •

Grandparent: In this situation, the caller pretends to be a grandchild or other close relative, who is in trouble and requires financial help. Because of advances in technology, it will sound exactly like your relative!

If you receive a call like this, hang up and call your grandchild (or their parents) or close relative directly to make sure they called you. Do not act on their pleas immediately. If you can’t reach the person directly, call someone you trust.

These callers are persistent and they your love and concern for this person.

•

Tech support: In this scam, criminals say they work for well-known companies and they are calling to fix a problem they have found on your computer.

•

Romance: Yes, like younger people, older adults are online dating.

Do not give out personal information, such as your SIN or mother’s maiden name, and never send money to anyone you have met online.

Further guidance: Never give out any passwords, personal information, or banking details over the phone, through email or another online method.

People working in banks and other financial institutions, government agencies, or legal services will never ask you for your password. If someone asks you for this, do not provide it for any reason.

It can be daunting and confusing dealing with some of the newer forms of technology and they seem to change on a weekly basis. Remember: when dealing with personal information or money, caution and time are your friends.

Share Your WESN Experience With Our Practicum Student!

Hi, My name is Luna and I am a UBC social work student. My main project at WESN is to gather member’s stories for the annual Strategic Planning project. This project helps WESN understand how well their programs are being received, and it allows them to reflect on the past year.

If you would like to have a phone call with me to chat about your experiences and thoughts, you can reach me at practicum@wesn.ca or 604-669-5051.

Kay’s Place

ASK US 604-669-7339 | KAYSPLACEINFO@WESN.CA

FRIENDLY CALLING | INFORMATION & REFERRAL | HOUSING NAVIGATION | PEER SUPORT

Housing Navigation Services at Kay’s Place

Susan Pare and Deborah Loren, our housing specialists, are available by appointment to help you with housing. Book your appointment with the volunteers who answer the phone at Kay’s Place, or drop into the storefront in the Denman Place Mall.

The housing-related issues we can help you with include: •

Low market housing across Metro Vancouver.

•

Subsidized housing through BC Housing.

•

Tenant Resource and Advisory Centre (TRAC).

•

Independent, Assisted Living and Long Term Care.

•

Evictions.

•

Shelter list.

•

Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER).

Important: please make sure you know your monthly income when you come for the appointment.

Clothes & Collectibles by Laura We are excited to tell you that we have received a grant to update the store and give it a fresh new look.

This will include painting the walls, updating the floor, and improving the lighting. We’ll also replace a few broken clothing racks and bring in some new ones.

I don’t know the date we moved into this location from the lock and key store, but we are so ready for a refresh!

We will be closing the store for a week (at least) as we’ll have to sell all the donated items (clothes, housewares, books, art, etc.) and then pack up and store all the racks and shelving. Whew!

We have a tentative start date in the first week of March, but this date may slip by a week or so. I wish we could be more definite about dates but, as you can imagine, there are a lot of moving parts in this project.

Keep track of our progress and re-opening date through social media and signs at the store. We can’t wait to show you the finished product!

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Bonus Bytes Yarn Artisans

Dinner Club with Mauro

As always, yarn and needle donations are greatly appreciated!

This engaging outing, hosted by longtime West End Seniors’ Network volunteer, Mauro João, meets one Wednesday a month.

The Yarn Artisan group has been crafting together for over 25 years. While they visit, these talented folks make beautiful pieces sold year-round in the foyer and main floor kitchen, as well as at special sales held throughout the year. All proceeds go to the WESN Seniors In Need fund, which can provide limited financial assistance to older adults.

If you haven’t knit or crocheted in years, or want to learn, the members encourage you to come.

They would be happy to help you get acquainted with the fibre arts. Yarn and needles are available, as needed.

The Yarn Artisans meet every Monday and Wednesday from 10-12 in the main floor

Their lively group welcomes anyone with an interest in good conversation and the desire to try out West End, Coal Harbour and Yaletown restaurants. Every month they choose a different venue and cuisine, based on accessibility, transportation, and member preferences.

Check the monthly activities calendar in the newsletter for the location, and RSVP at Barclay Manor.

I’m Lilian Grumbach, the new Administrative Assistant at the

West End Seniors’ Network. Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, I moved to Vancouver with my husband and teenage daughter 8 months ago. We instantly fell in love with Vancouver’s natural beauty and diverse culture, which warmly embraces people from all backgrounds.

My goal is to make a positive difference in people’s lives, and I feel incredibly fortunate to join the WESN team. Working here is a dream come true for me, and I can’t imagine being anywhere else.

Back in Brazil, I worked in various roles in technology companies, including Project Management, Product Management, and Operations.

Outside of work, I enjoy jumping rope and taking walks, especially in the stunning surroundings of this beautiful country.

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Get to Know Us Barclay Manor 1447 Barclay St.

This month we thank:

Contact us 604 669 5051 | info@wesn.ca Monday to Friday 9 am–5 pm Board Members email: board@wesn.ca President | David Harvey Vice President | Gary Glacken Treasurer | Maheen Jamaalmaheen Director | Dawid Cieloszczyk Director | Sara Johnson Director | Bonnie Quam Director | Serena Chu Secretary | Theo Madeley Executive Director Claudine Matlo | executivedirector@wesn.ca Manager of Operations Joe Humphries | operationsmanager@wesn.ca Manager of Community Services Meeka Marsolais | servicesmanager@wesn.ca Manager of Volunteers & Programs Miriam Homem de Mello | volunteers@wesn.ca Administrative Coordinator (vacant) Events and Communications Coordinator Yathu Radhakrishnan | events@wesn.ca Close to Home Program Coordinator Margaret Ovenell (she/her) | closetohome@wesn.ca Choose to Move Program Coordinator Lisa Gosselin | choosetomove@wesn.ca Community Services Coordinator Miel Nicholson | betterathome@wesn.ca Community Services Coordinator Niloofar Hedayati | servicescoordinator@wesn.ca Kay’s Place Denman Mall 604-669-7339 | Monday to Friday 10 am–4 pm Manager Susan Paré | susan@wesn.ca Housing & I&R Coordinator Deborah Loren | housingcoordinator@wesn.ca Clothes and Collectibles Denman Mall 604-682-0327 | Wednesday to Friday 11 am–5 pm Saturday 12–4 pm Manager | Laura Fee | clothes@wesn.ca Asst. Managers | Gordana Smocilac & Will Tessier Supervisor | Brenda Wong Supervisor on call | Larisa Todorovic WESN’s Newsletter Editor | Andrea Wadman | newsletter@wesn.ca Graphic Designer | Claudia Fleury On Leave Jennifer Conroy | Program Manager Evelyn Boe | Operations Manager

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Susan did not climb Mt.Everest