Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism 2016 Awards

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2016 AWARD RECIPIENTS

Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism Seniors Working Together

VOLUNTEER AWARDS

HERITAGE AND CULTURE

AMBER MACLEOD

ADVOCACY

ANNE CHASE

COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP (URBAN)

FITNESS

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

BETTY BLAIR

JOAN LIDINGTON

EDUCATION

JEAN KURBIS

COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP (RURAL)

CENTENARIAN

INTERGENERATIONAL

SENIOR FRIENDLY BUSINESS

HERBERT DUNCAN

SHIRLEY ARNOLD

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

SASKATOON COUNCIL ON AGING

ANNETTE LABELLE

MEDICINE SHOPPE ON 33RD

TEAM WORK

OM KOCHAR

REGINA LUTHERAN HOME LADIES AUXILARY

SENIORS HONOURED FOR VOLUNTEER CONTRIBUTIONS On Sunday Sept. 25, the Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism (SSM) hosted the seventh annual Celebrating Seniors provincial senior volunteer awards at a banquet at the Conexus Arts Centre in Regina.

These awards celebrate the contributions seniors make to society and provide an opportunity for Saskatchewan residents to be made aware of those contributions to all aspects of the life and work of the province. Award categories included Centenarian, Community Leadership (Rural), Community Leadership (Urban), Education, Advocacy, Fitness, Heritage and Culture, Lifetime Achievement, Arts and Entertainment, Intergenerational, Teamwork and Senior Friendly Business.

The evening began with a reception during which each of the nominees received a corsage, a gift bag, a certificate and a pin from the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan. Each nominee had their photo taken individually and with guest speaker Alvin Law. Cécile Denis, principal harpist with the Regina and Saskatoon Symphony Orchestras, entertained the guests.

After the reception, the MC for the evening, JC Garden from CTV Regina, welcomed everyone to the event and kept everything flowing smoothly. Several guests presented greetings: SSM’s Honourary Patron Her Honour, the Honourable Vaughn Solomon Schofield, Lieu-

tenant Governor of Saskatchewan (written greeting), Muhammad Fiaz on behalf of the provincial government, Michael Fougere on behalf of the City of Regina, and Robert Wuschenny, President of the Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism.

Following an excellent buffet supper, Heather Laing — representing Platinum Sponsor CAA Saskatchewan — brought greetings and introduced guest speaker Alvin Law. The awards ceremony commenced with Heather Laing presenting the Heritage and Culture Award on behalf of CAA Saskatchewan. Other awards were then presented by Robert Wuschenny, with selected awards presented by the Gold Sponsors: the Fitness award

by Muhammad Fiaz on behalf of the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health, the Centenarian award by Karen Lisk on behalf of All Seniors Care Living Centres, and the Community Leadership (Rural) award by Dale Richardson on behalf of SaskTel Pioneers Chapter 59.

The Celebrating Seniors awards take place annually. Anyone can nominate someone for an award.

The nominee must be 55 years of age or older, be a resident of Saskatchewan, and have made a significant volunteer contribution to their community. Contact Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism at 306-359-9956 for more information or for a nomination package.

THIS CONTENT IN THIS SECTION WAS PROVIDED BY SASKATCHEWAN SENIORS MECHANISM FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES.

Congratulations to all the nominees and recipients.

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7TH ANNUAL SASKATCHEWAN SENIO

HERITAGE AND CULTURE

Since her days as a young teacher, AMBER M A C L E O D has been admired for her strong sense of community and enhancing the lives of others. While teaching, she took time to serve the South Saskatchewan Reading Association, the Regina Teachers Federation, the Saskatchewan Reading Council and other professional organizations. She also became involved in the community as the first female committee chair for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, a position she held for 17 years. She remains a director of the Riders to this day. In 1990 she travelled to Stockholm, Sweden for the World Congress in Reading.

She volunteers with the MacKenzie Art Gallery, the Arthritis Society, and her church, and does a great deal with the Canadian Federation of University Women, the Canadian Club of Regina, and the Association of Canadian Clubs.

She has been archivist for the Canadian Club of Regina, and is tireless in her work of preserving the history of the organizations she serves. She also encourages younger people to join the organizations and get involved. When Amber was involved with the Peter Gzowski Golf Tournaments for Literacy she worked alongside Peter, and they achieved great results. It is not surprising that one of her supporters notes, “For many, many years, if you needed someone for a volunteer job, it was ‘Ask Amber MacLeod.’”

ADVOCACY ANNE CHASE, an ovarian cancer survivor, knows firsthand what women go through in diagnosis and treatment. She uses that knowledge, along with empathy and determination, in her dedicated service as an advocate for ovarian cancer patients, travelling throughout Saskatchewan providing education and awareness. She volunteers with Ovarian Cancer Canada, serving on its board and its National Research Committee. Anne has met with women diagnosed with this disease and their families, giving support and knowledge.

She is a founding member of the Saskatchewan Ovarian Cancer Survivors and provides leadership in the Patient Family Advisory Council. She was instrumental in organizing the first Ovarian Cancer Canada Regina Walk of Hope and continues this involvement. Because of Anne’s steadfast advocacy, a provincial Gynaecology Group was formed consisting of survivors, Ministry of Health representatives, Saskatchewan Cancer Agency gynaecologists, staff and family physicians from both the Cancer Agency and the health regions. She is an active member in her church and has also volunteered for both the Canadian Diabetes Association and the Saskatchewan Heart & Stroke Association. Anne exhibits vision, creativity and initiative – her ultimate dream is for Saskatchewan women diagnosed with ovarian cancer to be able to participate in clinical trials in our province. Her volunteerism is characterized by breaking new ground, eliminating barriers, empowering others and being an agent for change.

Since 2003, GLORIA TREMBLAY has dedicated her time to educating, guiding, and advocating for individuals in Saskatchewan who are living with HIV. She acts as a mentor in the Peer-to-Peer program, shares her story with organizations in city, reserve, and rural community settings, talks with nursing students, nurses and doctors, and does all she can to enhance lives, to educate, and to address and shatter negative stereotypes associated with HIV. Long before 2003, she was volunteering, advocating, and mentoring in other situations, living out her dedication and commitment to people in need. She is well-known for her kind heart and selflessness, but also for being upfront and straightforward. She is a strong, passionate, and compassionate advocate who has earned the respect and gratitude of those she serves as well as peers and professionals within the medical field.

JAYNE WHYTE has given more than 25 years in volunteer service with the Canadian Mental Health Association (Saskatchewan Division) as an advocate for those with mental illness. She works to build bridges among those who receive mental health services, service providers, and policy developers, sharing her leadership, experience, knowledge, and facilitation skills. She has served the SMHA locally, provincially,

and nationally, and is a founding member of the National Network for Mental Health. She advocates for better services and greater public awareness. She is deeply concerned for the marginalized and disenfranchised in society.

Her book on the history of mental health in the province, “Pivot Points,” has educated hundreds of people regarding the checkered history of mental health in Saskatchewan.

She has been instrumental in the Peer Support movement which is one of the most promising practices for recovery for persons living with mental illness. She has made a tremendous positive impact on Saskatchewan’s mental health community and larger system, working consistently and tirelessly to assist those in need and to improve the system supporting them.

TEAMWORK

The REGINA LUTHERAN HOME LADIES AUXILIARY began its mission of enhancing the lives of residents of the Home in 1965. Initially, the Auxiliary visited residents, provided entertainment and activities for them, and sought to “provide comfort and render assistance to the guests of the Home.” Over the years, those initial mandates have changed and the role of the Ladies Auxiliary has changed according to the changing needs of the home. The group supports many programs and activities for the residents. They annually host a Remembrance Day service, a World Day of Prayer service, and a Tea and Bazaar. The annual tea and bazaar raises funds used to purchase bedding plants for the Home’s garden, as well as Christmas gifts and personal care items for the residents. One Auxiliary member opens her home to visits from the residents to enjoy her beautiful flower gardens during a sunny Saskatchewan summer afternoon.

The group also supports staff by volunteering as assistants for outings for the residents. It is said that “the lives of our Elders would not be rich, fun and meaningful without them.”

Over the past 51 years, there have been 152 women that have served in this dedicated auxiliary. These ladies have exemplified “teamwork” and show how working together can have a tremendous impact on the lives of others.

COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP (URBAN) Since the early 1980s, CECIL AND LILLIAN CHAPMAN have been active at the Regina Senior Citizens Centre, selling tickets at events, helping with set-up, assisting with and participating in the bi-weekly dances, making newcomers feel welcome and at home, and doing anything else they can to enhance the experience that seniors find at the RSCC. Cec has served on various committees and in various board positions, while Lil has served on numerous ad hoc committees, and as an ambassador for the Centre at a nation-wide convention.

They are very involved with their church, serving in a number of capacities there, and have canvassed for many different charities. One of their supporters says, “Their commitment to the Regina Senior Citizens Centre over many decades has helped this facility to be a much-valued ‘home,’ enabling generations of seniors to participate in activities that contribute to maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle.”

TONY FREI’s commitment and leadership abilities were integral in transforming the pool room at the Regina Senior Citizens Centre into a “busy hub for seniors to mingle, socialize, and get some physical activity.” There are regular tournaments, special events, recognition of milestone birthdays, and always a friendly smile and listening ear. Tony “understands the importance of seniors having a daily purpose, a place to go and feel welcome and have some interaction with others in a fun, light-hearted way, knowing that this may be the only place and only people they see that day.” He spends countless hours organizing events, providing rides, fundraising for the repair of damaged tables, and all the many details that go into the smooth running of this “social beehive.” He works closely with the Saskatchewan Seniors Fitness Association to run tournaments, and organize out-of-town events to enhance the lives of those who attend. He is also an active volunteer in his church. His tireless efforts are inspiring to those who see him in action.

GORDON LIDDLE is well known in Melfort and area for his community involvement. When his wife had to move into a care home, he began volunteering there in any capacity in which there was need. He is involved with his church, the Arts Council, the Rotary Club, the local chapter of Superannuated Teachers of Saskatchewan, and the Melfort & District Museum.

His singing talent has been put to use leading the singing of the national anthem at community events, as a church choir director, and as Master of Ceremonies at the local Rotary Christmas Carol Festival. He also delivers Meals on Wheels. It is said of him that, “Gordon lives his belief that we are all obligated to contribute to making our communities a better place.”

It is said of JOAN LIDINGTON that she “is a woman of integrity who brings to all her volunteer commitments her dedication to improving quality of life, her firm sense of justice and her considerable talents.” She is active on the board of the Saskatoon Council on Aging, serving as vice chair of the board; as chair of the Spotlight on Seniors committee, which is a trade show for older adults, their families and caregivers; and as chair of the Older Adult Task Force. She has been involved with the North Saskatchewan chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation for over forty years, and has served as its chair, as well as being Saskatchewan regional Director for the National Board. She has been involved in Toastmasters for a number of years, and has offered the program to those for whom English is a second language. She was a founding member of the Saskatchewan Alzheimer and Related Diseases Association (now the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan) and the first volunteer facilitator of the Alzheimer Support Group in Saskatoon. “Energy, commitment and compassion” are “integral to who Joan is” says one of her supporters.

CHARLENE MCLEAN has been active in the Girl Guides of Canada for over fifty years, forty-one of those as an adult member. She is currently Provincial Commissioner for Girl Guides. She has held many local, provincial and national positions, and even a serious fall six months ago didn’t keep her from her Girl Guide duties. She has served as a Unit Guider, a Saskatchewan Trainer, a Saskatchewan Council International Adviser, a National Program Adviser, Regina Area Commissioner, and currently Provincial Commissioner. She helps both girls and leaders achieve their full potential, encouraging them to move past their comfort zone and try new experiences. It is said that, “she has a wonderful volunteer heart and a passion for Girl Guides and loves the sisterhood of Guiding.”

IRIS SINCLAIR has been involved with volunteering for many years and in many different capacities. In the past, she has served with Rangers, the Coronation Park Community Association, the Regina North Zone Board and the Save the Children Canada National Board.

She has canvassed for many organizations. She is heavily involved in her church – in fact, one of her supporters has said that if she were “given a penny for every act of kindness she has done for CWL and the Parish, she would be a billionaire.” She volunteers weekly with the Good Food Box program of the Regina Education and Action on Child Hunger organization, is on the finance committee at the Regina Early Learning Centre, is Chair of the Regina branch of Save the Children Canada and is the Save the Children representative to the Saskatchewan Council of International Co-operation. Her willingness to use her gifts and abilities and her dedication of service to others have enhanced the lives of many people over the years. She has always been committed to an approach of not just alleviating symptoms but focusing on meaningful longer term change.

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EDUCATION Like many volunteers, JEAN KURBIS began volunteering when her children were in school, and her commitment to volunteerism and to education has continued throughout her life. She became a member of the Recreation Board, which coordinated programs for all ages, including adult education programs. One program she and the board instituted was “Operation Challenge” to address the socialization needs of children who didn’t have access to kindergarten, with older students interacting with the younger ones. She was active in the Qu’Appelle Historic Society and in the production of their local history book. She has been active in her church all her life. She was a nurse in her professional life, and that knowledge and interest continues in her tireless work for the Osteoporosis Society as chair of the Educational Committee. She is also tireless in her work on the local Library Board, currently serving as chair, and was the driving force behind the pursuit of the goal of a new library for her town. She is called “a wonderful example of selfless volunteerism.”

COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP (RURAL) ELIZABETH BUTEL, known as Bess or Bessie, “has been a huge part of the Southey community for years.” As one of her supporters says, “her volunteerism goes above and beyond the norm.” She remains active in her church, and among many other activities has served in the Catholic Women’s League for 36 years and counting, including many years as treasurer and co-chair. She has served on the church council, spearheaded many fundraising events, and coordinated “more fall suppers than anyone can remember.” She is active in the Southey Senior Citizens’ Club, coordinating the monthly bingo fundraiser and other activities. Bess coordinates the monthly bingo at the local nursing home, as well as being active with the Red Hats group, and a singing group that often entertains in seniors’ homes. Her heart is huge, and she is generous with her time, doing visitations with the sick and lonely. After retiring as a teacher and librarian, she taught English as a Second Language for several years.

In the midst of all this activity, she always has a bright smile and a genuine “how are you” for anyone she comes in contact with.

ANNETTE LABELLE has contributed greatly to the promotion and celebration of the French culture – locally, provincially, and nationally. She is a force to be reckoned with.

Her boundless energy and enthusiasm helped her to become passionately involved in her community through many avenues – her church, as a Scout leader, local Chamber of Commerce member, a Board member of the Centre culturel Maillard, as a volunteer radio show producer for the local station CFRG, board member of the local seniors’ club and Ponteix housing cooperative, and a relentless fundraiser. She founded the community gardens, a collective kitchen where meals are prepared regularly for seniors, and a walking club for seniors. She is a teacher’s aide in the local pre-school, and coordinates interactions between seniors and students in the local schools — most recently being involved in an intergenerational project bringing local students and the seniors together to share their different styles of music and to encourage the students to develop their cultural identity. Annette continues to serve the Fransaskois community in many ways, champions the concept of Age-Friendly communities, and volunteers with the “Live Well with Chronic Conditions” and “Mental Health First Aid” programs as a trained facilitator. One of her supporters says, “Annette Labelle is one of Saskatchewan’s most versatile, dedicated and energetic volunteers” with an “innate sense of what is needed to improve the quality of life for the citizens of rural Saskatchewan.”

BETTY BLAIR “has always thrived on helping others and continues to help others. Today she is more committed to this community than ever.”

At 92, she leads the Century Club in her community, leading meetings and setting up monthly outings. She brings fitness to her community in diverse and imaginative ways. After a woman had a stroke and had to work on exercises at home, Betty was there to help and motivate her. From this beginning a group of 15 have joined to keep themselves fit and motivated. She leads an Aqua Fit class three times a week, and encourages people to join in the fun. She often leads a ‘Forever ... in motion’ exercise group and organizes the music for the residence’s dance program every Saturday. She is always welcoming newcomers to join the fun. Her supporters say, “Betty works well with others and always has a smile and a hug for anyone in need.” Also, “she is an active go-getter, encourager, and a happy example to us all.”

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT SHIRLEY ARNOLD is an artist who believes in sharing her talent with others. She has been involved in many art projects at the Regina Senior Citizens Centre, most recently pairing seniors with students of Balfour Collegiate to paint a memory. She has helped the RSCC’s seniors disabilities group with their art projects. They love her, and her patience shines through in her dealings with them. She puts in countless hours for the Wheat City Art Club, organizing the meetings and ibeing the driving force behind the Art Club’s annual art show and sale. She has served as President of the Club for seven years. In addition to all of this, she somehow finds time for several other volunteer commitments. Shirley is an example for us all of selflessness and determination.

NADEEM NAZ has made significant contributions to the arts, culture and entertainment in Saskatchewan as a musical performer, broadcaster, and educator.

He uses his musical abilities and performing talents in designing and leading crosscultural presentations, classes and workshops in Regina and other Saskatchewan communities, creating experiences that are inclusive, engaging and fun for all age groups. He has been actively involved with Regina Community Radio since 2002. He has been involved with the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan for many years as both a musician and a committee member. He brings together musicians from many different cultural traditions in the Multicultural Free Range Band, which creates music that appeals to a wide range of ages and backgrounds. He volunteers with the music therapy program in the Extended Care Program at Wascana Rehabilitation Centre in Regina, sharing his rich knowledge and love of music with the residents. His contributions through music within the South Asian community in Saskatchewan as well as cross-culturally, have greatly enhanced the quality of life in Regina and other Saskatchewan communities.

INTERGENERATIONAL

The REGINA LUTHERAN HOME, part of Eden Care Communities, has always made intergenerational programs a priority. Through a partnership with Imperial School, Grade 3 students come into the facility to read with the seniors for an hour, once a week, with each child being paired with an Elder for this program. One year, a student continued to come and spend time with his reading buddy through the summer. The Ehrlo Early Learning Centre daycare children also come and spend an hour with the Elders every week. Thursday afternoon

al Thank You To Our Gold Level Sponsors

brings visits from the participants at Cosmopolitan Learning Centre. They garden, bake, play cards and visit. Winston Knoll Collegiate’s Functional Integrated Academic Program class visits twice weekly, and the Elders have been invited to the school in return. Other groups, such as the UCT Soccer Club and other Elementary and High School classes, visit occasionally, and the Break Away Moms group brings their babies for the Elders to enjoy. Other opportunities are being developed and encouraged. “The Regina Lutheran Home believes very strongly in the value and importance of generations connecting with each other. In today’s society, stories, histories and relationships may be getting lost in the fast pace electronic world. By creating opportunities for people of all ages to get together, the Regina Lutheran Home believes that all can benefit.”

The SASKATOON COUNCIL ON AGING, or SCOA as it is often called, strongly believes in promoting opportunities for positive interactions between seniors and young people.

To cite just a few examples: with the cooperation of the Restorative Action Program, and led by SCOA, a project involving Jubilee Residence and Holy Cross High School has led to an annual car show to raise funds for Camp Easter Seal. This project has led to other partnerships with the High School.

One of these is the Senior TechBuddy program, in which high school students in Grades 10 to 12 partner with seniors to provide assistance with technology devices such as iPads, laptops, and cell phones. The program has a wait list of seniors and is proving very successful. In a project with Evan Hardy High School Media Studies, students and SCOA volunteers created videos depicting SCOA’s programs and services. Elementary schools have partnered with SCOA for an Age Alive Photography Exhibition, which includes presentations to students about positive aging. Students welcome the opportunity to discuss aspects of aging with older adults in this way. There have been other well-received partnerships with schools, and with the University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing. Such partnerships “have helped to bring together diverse groups of people and to dispel inaccurate stereotypes.”

Since 2005, GERRY WURTAK has been active with Tetra Regina, which helps seniors and people with disabilities, by creating products that enhance their quality of life and are not available commercially.

Gerry provides the workspace in his heated garage.

He is a wellspring of creative and innovative ideas, and adds some special touches to every project that are above and beyond the expected. Just a few of those projects are wagon/sled combinations for children with disabilities, so that they can, in Gerry’s words, “experience the wind blowing in their face,” creating a curling rock stabilizer for a curler in a wheelchair; and customizing a sewing machine so that a woman who is paralyzed from the waist down can operate the pedal with her forehead. He works with youth and older generations in Tetra, creating many positive interactions between the generations. As one of his supporters says, “Gerry shares his experience with all the volunteers, especially younger volunteers, and teaches them more than just how to do a task – he imparts skills and wisdom they will use in their futures” and “The community of Regina and the province of Saskatchewan are made better places to live in, due to his tireless efforts and contributions.”

SENIOR FRIENDLY BUSINESS THE MEDICINE SHOPPE on 33rd Street in Saskatoon, owned by Joan Cochrane, “goes beyond the basic needs of the services they provide to ensure that being senior friendly is part of the business’s DNA.” They have a business philosophy that is focused on seniors, holding free fitness classes that are open to the community, doing home visits to clients who find it difficult to get to the pharmacy and offering free delivery. And, their driver reports to them if he has concerns about a client. They offer free medical foot care to their prescription clients. They have designed their pharmacy so that a sit-down face-to-face consultation of client with the pharmacist is part of their regular work flow, which aids them in monitoring the ongoing health of their clients. They hold community programs such as walk and run groups, with many seniors participating. They are actively involved in charity projects, and they partner with the Saskatoon Council on Aging in organizing Spotlight on Seniors, an annual showcase which offers a host of educational, health and general information for seniors and an opportunity for them to come out and enjoy themselves. This pharmacy is not just a prescription-filling service but offers services dedicated to assisting clients to improve their health and maintain independence. It is said that “Joan Cochrane’s leadership of the Medicine Shoppe demonstrates a very commendable, sensitive and caring model of healthcare plus provides a good example of how a business organization can foster a healthy lifestyle for the entire community.”

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2016 AwARd NoMINEEs CENTENARIAN lOuISe arndt, at age 93, has been dedicated to volunteer work for many years. She is a model of how it is possible to stay active and contribute when into one’s 90s and beyond. She is active with Grow Regina Community Gardens, having been instrumental in the creation of this community garden, and serving on the board of directors since day one. She is also a long-time volunteer with the Lakeview Community Association, and keeps each association up-to-date with the other’s activities. She is committed to the greening of the world around her and is generous with her time and resources. She has been an active member of the Regina Horticultural Society for 50 years. She spent more than 30 years on the Regina Council of Women, serving in many capacities including liaison work with the Saskatchewan Council of Women and the National Council of Women.

She is also a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Ladies Auxiliary and the Saskatchewan Natural History Society. One of her supporters says that “she is always attentive, supportive, caring and provides her insight and brings her knowledge and connections to bear on the issue at hand,” whatever that issue might be. herbert duncan, at age 101, is still active in volunteer work as an entertainer, handyman and fundraiser. Usually six times per month, he joins other musicians to play his violin at local seniors’ residences. He not only plays the violin but makes them, too. He has a reputation for being able to fix almost any kind of appliance, often with recycled parts. He is a skilled water witcher as well, and this skill was still called upon when Herbert was 98. His fundraising abilities are second to none. He is active with the Cypress Shrine Club, fundraising for Saskatchewan patients going to Shrine hospitals for children and to burn units – this being a high priority for him. In the 10-year period from 2006 to 2016, he personally raised over $10,000, just from the sale of calendars. In 2009, at age 94, Herb sold more calendars than any other Shriner in Saskatchewan! He volunteers at his church and delivered Meals on Wheels for many years. As his supporters say, Herb exemplifies a Saskatchewan senior who remains active and volunteers his time to contribute to the overall quality of life in his community. And, if you were to ask Herb why he volunteers, his likely answer would be, “I like to help people.”

At the age of 102, SOphIe FOSter has been a lifelong educator and a lifelong learner.

She helped design and implement the English upgrading program at SIAST in 1972, and her service continues as a tutor for adults learning English as a second language. She participates in Saskatoon Council on Aging-sponsored computer classes, using her computer skills to benefit those around her. She is active in the Century Club, her church, and is “a deep well of information and experience to all her friends and acquaintances.” She has been a regular participant in the Longitudinal Elderly Persons Shadowing program, in which students from University of Saskatchewan Colleges of Pharmacy & Nutrition, Physiotherapy, Nursing, and Medicine are linked with residents of Saskatoon’s Luther Tower to learn about the needs of older individuals. She also regularly goes to high schools to speak with Grade 11 and 12 students about the importance of living well. “She is an amazing advocate for older adults at a time when not all children have the opportunity to know the older people in their lives.”

It has been said that without rOSS leIghtOn, the Moose Jaw Senior’s Activity Centre would not exist. In 1989, he was instrumental in the work of the Moose Jaw & District Senior’s Association in turning the old Eaton’s building into a viable and vital gathering place for seniors. In the years since then, he has led nearly all activities at one time or another; has served as board member and President; has lobbied governments for funding; and has taken part in countless fundraising activities, including building doll houses and bird houses for fundraising efforts. One of his supporters notes that he is forever “fixing something around the building.” He even celebrates his birthday every year by funding and attending the Volunteer Recognition Dinner. He is such an avid shuffleboard player that one lane has been named in his honour. Another supporter notes that, “not a day goes by that Ross doesn’t stop in to the Centre.”

He has played a key role in enhancing the lives of seniors in Moose Jaw. JOhn J. OnceScu (better known as JJ) began volunteering his musical talents to his community when he was 13 years old. He is a self-taught musician who plays violin, guitar, banjo and harmonica, to the delight of those who hear him. At the age of 97, he still plays several times a week in seniors’ homes and at other occasions, never charging a cent, but happily accepting a cup of coffee and a pastry or other goodie in return, not to mention being the recipient of many grateful hugs over the years. He has also been active in the local branch of the Royal Canadian Legion, having served in various positions as well as volunteering when there is a need. “JJ is a glowing example of a model citizen and definitely sets the bar much higher than most could ever hope to achieve,” says one of his supporters. patrIcIa SmIth’s talents and interests have led to a life of volunteer work that has spanned decades and has enhanced the lives of many people from children to seniors. She started with being active in the programs that her children were involved with, and her life as a volunteer blossomed from that small beginning. Her superb swimming skills, ability to teach, and compassion for all people led her to become involved in the swimming program offered through the YMCA for children with developmental disabilities at Harrow de Groot School. She also encouraged students of this school who had the potential to learn to read and write, working countless hours with them on this monumental task. Her talents also extend into the field of art, and she has used her boundless enthusiasm and talent for many aspects of creative work to enhance the lives of residents in Wascana Rehabilitation Centre, assisting program therapy staff to provide sensory and social stimulation for long-term residents. She has been involved in her local community association, has provided a Block Parent safe house, and has canvassed for various causes. As one of her supporters says, “she has made an outstanding volunteer contribution to Regina and Saskatchewan through her dedication to her community and to its people.”

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT Om KOchar is a true community leader who works tirelessly in promoting citizen engagement, collaboration, diversity and lifelong learning. The host of organizations he has been involved with as a member of the board, coordinator, or other key role, show his dedication to promoting inter-cultural understanding. These organizations include the Forum for Racialized Canadians; “Building a Sense of Belonging,” (a project by the United Nations Association of Canada); the Community Education and Action Committee for the City of Saskatoon; Child Find Saskatchewan; the India Canada Cultural Association; the Hindu Temple of Saskatoon; United Way Saskatoon; the Open Door Society of Saskatoon; TCU Place; and many other causes within the community. Many of his volunteer efforts seek to bring people together to create awareness about integration, belonging and cross-cultural understanding, as well as encouraging community building. It is said that he “exemplifies all the qualities of a dedicated individual who continually demonstrates excellence, achievements and contributions to the social, cultural and economic wellbeing of the province and its residents. Om has demonstrated a sincere devotion to his community and is driven by the desire to live in a harmonious society.”

It is said of Syl and Ivadelle KulyK that the quality of their relationship with the community at large is something very few can replicate. Along with their inner circle of volunteers, they “actively and effectively tackle a wide variety of community-focused projects, and complete each and every task with a smile and a sense of pride in a job well done.” The list of their involvements is astonishing — and exhausting!

The many activities in which they are involved include volunteering at the Oliver Lodge Nursing Home for 45 years and counting; two Briers; Summer Games 1989; Scott Tournament of Hearts 1991; three Canadian Figure Skating events; Canada Remembers International Air Show for 20 years; countless walkathons and radiothons for a variety of causes; a long term, continuing involvement with Saskatoon Police Volunteers, the Saskatoon Health District, the Amateur Radio Club, and Remembrance Day Services; tourism ambassadors and airport ambassadors; and they provided amateur radio communication for local Mexican families during an earthquake in Mexico.

“Saskatchewan is a better place because the Kulyks try to help in whatever they are asked to contribute towards, and make whatever the project might be a success.”

lucIlle lang has worked hard in a variety of positions over the years, but has always made time for volunteering. She has been active with the Lioness Club and also the Royal Purple where she has reached the position of Honoured Royal Lady. After living in many places in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, working and volunteering wherever they lived, Lucille and her husband retired to Candle Lake, Sask. She has served the Parks and Recreation organization and the health board there. She has served in every possible capacity in the Seniors Club, including two years as president. Her skills and knowledge in cooking for large groups is much in demand, and she has organized many banquets for various groups. She is active in her church, the local quilters, and other community activities. She and her husband built an Adoration Chapel in their yard, which is open year round and used daily.

Visitors are made welcome, and this has been a beautiful and meaningful addition to the community. One of her supporters says, “Lucille has a caring personality that brings out the best in everyone and she is perceptive to the needs of all around her.”

Jean mcgIll has had a “lifetime of involvement in music that she has unselfishly shared with the community,” says one of her supporters. She has also had a lifetime of volunteer service, while at the same time raising a family and working with the Town of Lumsden. She was involved with her church’s music program from 1947 to 2012, including 30 years as choir director and organist. She held executive positions with the Curling Club, the Figure Skating Club, and the Girl Guides of Canada, and she was involved in initiating, organizing and accompanying the Lumsden Carol Festival for 21 years.

She is currently treasurer of the Lumsden and Craven Seniors Program, she volunteers for the Lumsden and District Heritage Home, provides music for the Remembrance Day service and at the Lumsden Park Manor, and accompanies a singing group at the Seniors’ Centre, as well as serving on the executive of the Seniors’ Centre. It is said of her that she “exemplifies the true virtues of charity — giving through effort and working with others without drawing attention to herself.” She “brings perspective, wisdom, joy, and quiet confidence to her interactions. She respects and cares deeply for her community.”

Hang on tigHt – old age is coming C A RO L T O D D POSTMEDIA CONTENT WORKS

The late, great Bette Davis had it right when she said that “Old age is no place for sissies.”

Life for seniors can be challenging as health and other age-related issues become more prevalent as people grow older. A recent report noted that increasing numbers of Canadians will not have the financial means to retire at age 65. The Broadbent Institute, an Ottawa-based think tank reported that half of Canadian couples between the ages of 55 and 64 have no employer pension and most of those don’t have adequate savings to last more than a year into retirement. That’s bad news for the almost 14 per cent of Saskatchewan’s population that is aged 65 and older and for those who are approaching retirement age. And, while the Saskatchewan Human Rights Code protects against age discrimination, there is a wealth of anecdotal evidence that gray hair can be a turn-off for employers, tightening the financial screws even further.

Whether or not those statistics are a factor, it is obvious that much of the advertising older adults see and hear, and even the news stories, are often geared to young people. In today’s fast-paced world, where everyone is constantly barraged by a stream of advertising, entertainment and pseudo-news geared to the buying public, older adults may feel increasingly left out.

Linda Anderson, former board member of Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism (SSM), has taken a break from the boardroom to spearhead a project to examine whether modern media are, in fact, skewed to a young audience. “People are not conscious of it; they can’t swear there is a bias, but there does seem to be one. Our society has become quite youth oriented and it just does not recognize the wisdom, the energy, the experience of older adults,” she says.

SSM has received a Pan-Canadian grant from New Horizons for Seniors and is working with the Alzheimer Society, the Red Cross, the Saskatchewan Population Health and Evaluation Research Unit (SPHERU), the Fédération des aînés fransaskois and the Regina Lifelong Learning Centre on a three-year plan for Creating a Culture of Inclusion. “The whole project is about reducing isolation,” says Anderson. “If you reduce isolation, we know from studies of various kinds, that older adults do better if they do not feel alone.”

Anderson says the issue of age in the media is a major component of the plan. “Older adults receive messages conveyed by society in many ways, including the news media. These messages reveal societal attitudes that have an effect on how older adults perceive themselves and their value within their communities,” she says.

The first year of the Media and Ageism Project will be devoted to organiz-

ing and conducting media monitoring to gather data on the messages carried

by Saskatchewan’s news media, including newspapers, radio and television.

The monitoring will be done by a group of trained volunteers who will use common response forms as they monitor the various media for items that are about, or refer to, older adults.

In addition to content, the volunteers will also examine where the story is placed, and will consider whether there are subliminal messages, as well as the feelings the stories evoke.

The results will be analyzed and the data will be used to plan ways to influence the media to be aware of attitudes towards older adults and to reduce negative stereotypes and assumptions.

“Based on personal experience, I predict that there will be data gathered that illustrates an abundance of overt and subliminal messages about seniors/older adults — that they are needy, frail, costly, are clogging the health systems and are basically a problem for society rather than being vibrant, knowledgeable, energetic, wise assets to society,” Anderson says.

The growing number of seniors in the population know which description is most accurate and while they await the results of the SSM study, they may want to remember another piece of sage advice by the unflappable Ms. Davis: “Fasten your seatbelts.

It’s going to be a bumpy night.” The younger folks might want to Google.

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