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PROGRAMS& CLUBS
FROM THE BOARD
CLOSED
NEWSLETTER
WEST ENDSENIORS’ NETWORK
FOR SENIORS AGED 55+
STAFF NOTES - p. 4
VOLUNTEER HOT SPOTS -p. 7
PROGRAMS - p. 10
EVENTS - p. 11 PHOTOS - p.20 & 21
JANUARY 2014
VISIT WESN IN 2014 AND START SOMETHING NEW!
Barclay Manor 1447 Barclay St. Vancouver, BC V6G 1J6604-669-5051Monday-Friday, 9:00-5:00Eric Kowalski. Executive Director, Email: [email protected] Smith. Programs Manager, Email: [email protected] Morris. Manager of Volunteer Resources. Email: [email protected] Dora Ng. Volunteer Programs AssistantEmail: [email protected]
Clothes & Collectibles 604-682-0327. Denman Place Mall Monday-Saturday, 10:00-6:00Darlene Dranfield. ManagerGordana Smocilac. AssistantBonnie Patterson. Assistant
Kay’s Place 604-669-7339. Denman Place Mall Monday-Friday, 10:00-4:00Susan Moore. CoordinatorEmail: [email protected]
Maggie Gold. Director Frank McCormick. DirectorToni Mehrain. DirectorLinda Rubuliak. Director Eva Wadolna. Director Joshua Rottenberg. Director
Philip Waddell. President
John Dempsey. Vice PresidentIrma Mattes. TreasurerJennifer Chew. SecretaryLaura Aveledo. Director Susie Joe Dooner. Director
BOARDOFDIRECTORS
CONTACTINFO
Email us: [email protected] us on Facebook!
Birthday Tea ine china
TABLEOF CONTENTS1. Notes from Staff - P. 42. Volunteer Spots - P. 73. Programs and Events - P. 10 4. Clubs and Services- P. 15 5. Seniors’ In Need Fund Update - P. 196. Photo Spread - P. 20 & 21
Cover photos by Silmara Albi: Heritage Harmonies choir entertains at the Bay-shore; Greta and Diana at the Rotary Lunch.
John and friend enjoy a nice time at the Rotary Luncheon at the Westin Bayshore
Happy Hookers’ made a big donation of warm knits, hats and scarves to the less-fortunate in Vancouver.
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A MESSAGEFROM THE BOARD
January is just one of WESN’s three “new years”. Our fi nancial year runs from April to March and our membership year begins and ends with the Annual General Meeting in September.With the new calendar year, we are called to refl ect on the year just passed and to set resolutions for the coming year. The board will meet for a full day workshop this month to review the strategic plans we put in motion a couple of years ago, and to commit to our priorities for 2014. We expect membership and fundraising to be high on that list.
Before we celebrate our next September “new year”, we would like to reach more of the seniors in our community and break the 1000 member mark.
We are preparing budgets now for our April “new year”. Although in recent years we have fared well in securing public funds from city and provincial grants, and have been very fortunate with the success of Clothes & Collectibles, we have not been very eff ective at getting private donations and organizing profi table fundraising events.
With upgrades to our wesn.ca website, we can now accept donations online. We will also continue to encourage planned giving as a good way to remember WESN as part of a legacy.For the month of February, we will once again run our Helping Hearts campaign which has been our most eff ective fundraising eff ort. We will look for other opportunities to reach the generous donors in our community.
John Dempsey Vice President
Helping Hearts February Fundraiser Watch your mailbox for our annual Helping Hearts campaign letter coming soon!
3
Executive Director Eric Kowalski
It’s a brand new year and we’re looking forward both to meeting new friends and members and to continuing our relationship with the hundreds of people who currently belong to WESN! What do I see in my crystal ball for
2014?
1000 members! As I write this (mid December) we have over 520 members, with new members joining every week. I am predicting that, by our September AGM, we will have reached the 1000 mark.
A strong, motivated and committed group of WESN members will throw themselves into planning for the redevelopment of “Area F”, which includes the West End Community Centre, King George Secondary School and adjacent areas. Our ultimate goal? A purpose-built seniors’ centre included in the redevelopment plan.
A remodelled Kay’s Place. We may not be able to expand beyond the 468 square feet, but by the end of March I foresee a much more effi cient and attractive use of that small but busy space! Stay tuned for the open house!
The rental housing crisis. With the municipal elections scheduled for November, I predict increasingly impassioned debate over how to tackle the rent squeeze – in fact, I foresee this becoming one of the defi ning issues in the election! Given that 68% of West End residents aged 65+ rent rather than own their homes (double the percentage for the city as a whole), WESN will be working to bring even greater attention to the issue.
Fun. I predict we will all have a lot more fun in 2014. Whether it’s taking a bridge class, enjoying a Friday afternoon movie, fi nding a bargain at Clothes & Collectibles or simply enjoying a cup of coff ee amongst congenial company at Kay’s Place, I predict we’ll all learn to embrace the simple joys in life.
Here’s wishing all of you a bright and friend-fi lled 2014!
Eric Kowalski
NOTES FROMSTAFF
ONE.1
NOTES FROMSTAFF
1. ONE
4
Programs Manager Jessica Smith
Ready, Set... Go!
December is always a whirlwind of activity and Barclay Manor was hopping with activity throughout the whole month! Whether it was hosting an open-house full of carollers and newcomers to Barclay Manor for Christmas in the Square, the Happy Hookers Craft Sales at Denman Mall for the Seniors in Need (SIN) Fundraiser or bagging up donations of hats and scarves for those less-fortunate this time of year, there was always something special and exciting happening. I want to thank all the volunteers who got us through the (sometimes) chaotic holiday times, from the bakers who kept us fed with their yummy treats to the newsletter delivery volunteers and everyone in between.
December was also the month we bid farewell to some amazing volunteers who are either moving on or hanging up their hat after years of service. Our beloved Spanish instructor Maria moved to warmer climes in Brazil and so we are left with the diffi cult task of fi lling her always-fashionable shoes. More information will be coming in the next newsletter about starting up the Spanish for Beginner’s Class. Birthday Tea leader extraordinaire John B. decided, after all his years running the monthly celebration, to offi cially “retire” from co-leading the Birthday Tea. We wish you and your lovely wife nothing but the best, John! The Birthday Tea at Barclay Manor is a favourite event for many, and we always need help putting it on for our members on the third Monday of each month. Are you interested in picking up the lead on this fun occasion? If so, please contact Melanie, Manager of Volunteers at 604-669-5051. She would be happy to speak with you about the opportunity!
I’m happy to announce that ESL for Seniors (Beginners Level) is returning in January , running for 8 weeks. This is a great program for newcomer seniors in the West End who would like to learn and improve their English skills. Not an easy task, but we are fortunate to have a qualifi ed teacher and language instructor in our midst who was interested in taking over the class.
One fi nal note of gratitude for all those who volunteered and helped to put on the annual Rotary Luncheon at the Westin Bayshore. The food was delicious, we enjoyed the beautiful music of local West End band Black Gardenia, and were entertained by WESN’s Heritage Harmonies. Although this event sold out within two weeks of registration opening, we did experience a higher-than-normal amount of “no-shows” this year. Just a reminder that this is a free event put on out of the generousity of the Rotary Club and the Westin Bayshore and unless we are told in advance that someone cannot attend in the event of an urgent matter, we do aim to have 100% of our seats fi lle. We also maintain a long waitlist of people hoping to attend every year, so the courtesy is appreciated by all.
5
Well another year is making its exit and I want to thank everyone for making it a wonderful time. Every customer, visitor, volunteer, every person at Kays’ Place and at Barclay Manor, the Board Members, C&C regulars and friends, my dear volunteers and Assistants, all of YOU. During this year we have exchanged our stories, and every one of these stories has the potential to inspire and motivate others, and possibly make someone feel less isolated. We can help each other just by sharing thoughts, our personal health challenges, and our fears. And we keep going, even during times of stress, even if we think we can’t continue, we DO. We often keep our fears, and troubles silent, but they are always there…like rocks under a brook…we keep them under the surface. This is why I love working with WESN, because through our resources, we can help make life less diffi cult, less of a challenge.
This New Year will have its own challenges, its own joys and sorrows, the Present is always like that, if we stick together and keep sharing our honesty we can all get through just about anything. And we WILL. Live this year truthfully and compassionately and with all of your heart, honour your health, and the ongoing opportunity to LIVE. Start a new routine, go to Yoga, work out, walk, meditate, kiss animals, eat vegetables, love people. Do not squander even one day, enthusiastically keep going and working on what makes you happy.
Let us all have an abundantly beautiful year, in life, in love, in faith in Ourselves and Each Other. Stay true to yourselves and help others do the same. I send you my love and gratitude every single day. Feel Good. Have Hope. And Never, Ever Give Up.
Goodbye 2013, you were exactly what you were supposed to be. Welcome 2014, We are ready for you.
Huge thank you to dearest Bif Naked for help with all of these words.
Clothes & Collectibles
Thrift Store Darlene Dranfi eld
6
CLOTHES & COLLECTIBLES
Mon-Sat 10:00am-6:00pm
Donation drop-off : Wednesdays & SaturdaysOr by appointment
7
January: Volunteer Hot Spots!
Transportation Drivers - Looking for safe, reliable and friendly volunteer drivers to help seniors living in the West End get to their medical and other critical appointments.
Bulletin Board – Put up weekly/monthly posters around the West EndBirthday Tea Leader - Do you enjoy fi ne china, tea sandwiches and socializing? We are
looking for a new Lead to help set up and run the once a month Birthday Tea.Please contact Melanie Morris to fi nd out more about any of these volunteer postings:
604-669-5051
Manager of Volunteer Resources
Happy New Year Volunteers! May 2014 bring you good health to you and yours and wonderful opportunities both in your volunteer and personal life. I’m always sorry to see December end as the decorations are boxed up and stored away but a new year brings new and revitalized programs for WESN and maybe that perfect volunteer opportunity
for you.
This brings me to my submission for this New Year and month of January: Have You Lost That Loving Feeling? Posted on Charity Village’s website by Bruce Raymond “How will you know when you are approaching volunteer burn-out, and what can you do about it? There is nothing worse for a group of volunteers than to have to put up with someone who has lost his or her enthusiasm. A lack of enthusiasm always shows; it can’t be hidden. If you are a culprit in this area, exchange your present volunteer activity for another activity - one for which you will not only have enthusiasm, but one for which you will also be unable to help yourself radiating that enthusiasm to others.” If you feel this way please don’t wait, give me a call and we can set up a meeting date to find you something that
will make you smile and feel fulfilled again.
Bruce Raymond has been active as a volunteer leader in the charitable sector, most recently serving as president and then chairman of the Variety Children’s Charity. Try his forthcoming book, “Seven Golden How-To Rules for Volunteers, or How to get the most
out of doing for nothing what you wouldn’t do for money”.
“No one has a right to consume happiness without producing it.” ~ Helen Keller
STAFF NOTES continued...
Melanie Morris
Kay’s Place Susan MooreCall us at 604-669-7339. Kay’s Place is open from
10 am to 4 pm Monday to Friday.
Happy New Year! 2014 is going to be an exciting year for Kay’s Place. In the fi rst three months of 2014 we will be renovating Kay’s Place, bringing in technicians to provide scooter and walker tune-ups and re-launching the Senior Peer Support Program.
Kay’s Place Renovations
We have submitted the redevelopment plans to the City of Vancouver and hope to begin the work very soon. The renovation will divide the current back offi ce into two spaces – a coordinator offi ce and a consultation room where our volunteers will be able to provide information and referral support in private. The front area in Kay’s Place will receive some special treatment as well to create better use of space and cosmetic updates. We anticipate very little disruption to service during the redevelopment.
Mobility Clinics
Shopper’s Home Health will be providing free scooter and walker tune-ups at Kay’s Place and Barclay Manor. Appointments need to be made in advance through Barclay Manor (see page 10 for details). There is no charge for the tune-ups but if any major repairs are needed, you will need to schedule a separate service appointment and cover costs for parts and service. The fi rst mobility clinic will be at Kay’s Place on January 7th. Call 604-669-5051
Senior Peer Support
The Senior Peer Counselling program was suspended in early 2013 in order to complete a full review. After thorough review of the consultant report, we secured a clinical supervisor, delivered Peer Support refresher training and are now able to provide this service in the community. If you or someone you know would like more information about this program or to schedule a confi dential appointment with a Peer Support volunteer, contact Susan at Kay’s Place 604-669-7339.
Mary “Mae” Watters, July 6, 1927- December 18, 2013
Long-time WESN member and friend to many, Mae Watters passed away on December 18th , 2013. Her memorial service was held on Dec. 23rd. She will be missed by many in the community. 8
Friday Movies1:30pm | Admission by Donation • Includes Popcorn! |
Barclay Manor
January 3 : Won’t Back Down (2012)
2 hr. 4 min. Viola Davis and Maggie GyllenhaalIn this fact-based drama, two women from diff erent classes and races draw on their common bond of motherhood to fi ght institutional inertia and an antagonistic bureacracy to improve an inner-city school.
January 10: The Sessions (2012)
1 hr. 35 min. Helen Hunt, William H. Macey, John HawkesAfter spending years in an iron lung, a man decides he wants to explore his sexuality for the fi rst time, and hires a surrogate to aid the goal. Through their intensifying relationship, this indie drama illustrates the many forms love can take. ** Rated 14A - Please note, there are scenes depicting sex in this movie.
January 17: Flight (2012)
2 hr. 22 min. Denzel Washington, John Goodman, Don Cheadle Rated 18AAfter his amazing safe landing of a damaged passenger plane, an airline pilot is praised for the feat, but has private questions about what happened. Further, the government’s inquiry into the causes soon puts the new hero’s reputation at risk** Rated 18A. May contain explicit violence, language, sexual content.
January 24: The Guilt Trip (2012)
1 hr. 35 min. Barbra Steisand, Seth Rogen After Andy Brewster invents a fabulous new organic cleaner, he goes on a cross-country road trip to promote it. His mother, Joyce, comes along for the ride but soon discovers that her son has an ulterior motive: fi xing her up with a long-lost fl ame.
January 31: Blue Jasmine (2013)
1 hr. 38 min. Cate Blanchett, Alec Baldwin, Sally HawkinsJasmine is a privileged New York City housewife whose husband showers her with jewels but neglects her emotionally. She goes to San Francisco to stay with her sister Ginger, who encourages her to fi nd a job of her own and start over. But Jasmine’s nerves are shot, and as the pressures of her life mount, her fragile hold on reality begins to crumble.
2. TWO ..................
PROGRAMS
9
Foreign Film - “A Peck on the Cheek ” (Sri Lanka) 2hrs 15 mins. Director Mani Ratnam’s powerful tale about abandonment and reunion stars P.S. Keerthana as 9-year-old Amudha, whose blissful world collides with reality when she learns that she was adopted as an infant. Initially dismayed by the shocking revelation, she soon resolves to fi nd her elusive birth mother, Shyama (Nandita Das) -- a life-altering decision that leads
Amudha on an emotional odyssey of discovery to war-ravaged Sri Lanka. Monday, January 6 • 12: 15 pm | By Donation | Drop-in | English Subtitles
The February Foreign Film will be “Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky” (France)
Documentary Film - “The Garden” (2008) 1 hr. 10 min. The fourteen-acre community garden at 41st and Alameda in South Central Los Angeles is the largest of its kind in the United States. Started as a form of healing after the devastating L.A. riots in 1992, the South Central Farmers have since created a miracle in one of the country’s most blighted neighborhoods. But now, bulldozers are poised to level their 14-acre oasis. “The Garden” follows the plight of the farmers, from the tilled soil of this urban farm to the polished marble of City Hall. Mostly immigrants from Latin America, from countries where they feared for their lives if they were to speak out, we watch them organize, fi ght back, and demand answersMonday, January 6 • 2:45 pm | By Donation | Drop-in | Barclay Manor
The February Documentary will be Kimjongilia: The Flower of Kim Jong II)
ESL for Seniors - Level I (Beginners) Our popular ESL for Seniors class returns in January and will provide an overview of basic English language skills over 8 weeks. Class components will include practicing listening, speaking and vocabulary-building exercises. Instructor Ian has many years ‘experience teaching English to newcomers and will supply class materials. The class fee of $8 covers the whole 8 weeks and registration is required. This class is sure to fill up quickly, so please register early and come to the first class on Wednesday January 15th.
Begins Wednesday, January 15th- March 8th • 10:30 am-11:30am | $8 for 8 weeks |
Registration Required | Barclay Manor
NOTES FROMSTAFF
ONE.1
PROGRAMS & EVENTS
3. THREE
10
Elvis’ Birthday CelebrationCelebrate Elvis Presley’s birthday and remember his remarkable life. In honour of the King we will serve his favourite foods and enjoy the performance of a memorable Elvis entertainer. Dust off your Blue Suede Shoes and join us for an afternoon of Jailhouse Rock!
Thursday, January 9th • 1:30 pm | $8 | Registration Required at WECC | Barclay Manor
January Birthday TeaMembers born in January are invited to a Birthday Tea to celebrate with sandwiches, sweets and wonderful entertainment on the piano by the always-fabulous Stuart.Monday, January 20th • 2:00 pm | $2.00 admission | RSVP required by January 17th |
Members and one guest each | Barclay Manor
Robbie Burns SocialJoin us in some traditional tartan as we celebrate Scotland’s favourite poet, Robbie Burns. Festive music and traditional fare make this a popular event! Let us know if you would like to read a poem or help with the toast. Co-hosted by WESN & WECC.
Thursday, January 23rd • 1:30 pm | $11 |
Registration Required at the West End Community Centre |
Takes place at Barclay Manor
Access Transit Workshop on New Compass Pass SystemYou may have heard of Compass - the new, upcoming electronic fare card system that will be rolled out everywhere on transit in Metro Vancouver beginning next year. When Compass arrives, the card will replace all our current passes and tickets and may seem a bit confusing at fi rst. Access Transit from Translink will provide an informational workshop in January to help introduce us to the new system. Come and discover the various fare products, how Compass will work. Bring your questions!Wednesday January 22nd • 2:00pm | Free | Registration Required | Barclay Manor
EVENTS continued
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Register at 604-669-5051
MONDAYComputer Coachingavailable in English , Mandarin or Cantonese 10:00 am - 12:00 pm | FreeRegistration Required
Computer Drop-in12:00 pm - 4:30 pm | Free
French Conversation CircleReturns Jan 1310:00 - 11:00 amFree | Drop-in
Foreign Film - A Peck on
the Cheek (Sri Lanka)
Jan. 6 • 12:15 pm | p.10By Donation | Drop-in | p. 10
Birthday TeaJan. 20 • 2:00 pm | $2By Invitation Only | p. 11
Documentary Film - The GardenJan. 6 • 2:45 pm | p.10By Donation | Drop-in
TUESDAYBeginners’ Bridge Group9:00 - 10:45 am | Free | Registration Required
Computer Drop-in9:00 – 1:00 pm | Free
Crochet Workshop10:00 am - 12:00 pmFree | Drop-in
Mobility Clinic at Kay’s PlaceJan. 7 10:00-2:00pmAppointment RequiredDetails P. 15
Heritage Harmonies Choir10:30 - 11:30 am Free | Drop-in
Computer Drop-in with Tutor 11:00 am - 1:00 pm | Free
Refl exology, Facials, Reiki & Chair Massage12:00 – 4:30 pmStarts at $22 for 30 minRegistration Required
Spanish Conversation Group - Intermediate12:45 – 2:00 pmFree | Registration Required
Texas Hold’em Poker1:00 – 3:00 pm | Free | Drop-in
Computer Coach Appts.1:00 – 3:00 pm1 hour 1-on-1 sessionsFree | Registration Required
Painting Studio1:30 –4:30 pm | Free | Registration Required
WEDNESDAYMen’s Breakfast ClubJan 22 • 9:00 am | Hamburger Mary’s | p.14Drop In | First-timers receive free breakfast
Acting Class 9:00 – 11:00 am | Free Registration Required
Computer Drop-in9:00 am - 2:00 pm | Free
ESL for BeginnersJan. 15 - Mar. 5 10:30am - 11:30 am $8 for 8 weeks | Registration Required
Nature Show Series11:00 am – 12:00 pmBy Donation | Drop-in
Spanish Conversation for Beginners 3:00pm - 4:00pmFree | Registration Required
Access Transit Workshop on Compass Pass SystemJan. 22 • 2:00pm | FreeRegistration Required
PROGRAM NOTESJANUARY 2014 CLOSED: JAN 1
12
\
Legal Clinic at Kay’s PlaceJan. 22 • 2:00 - 4:00pmDetails page 14
Dinner Club: Ciao BellaJan 15 • 5:30 pm | Drop-inDenman at Alberni| p. 14
THURSDAYComputer Drop-in11:30am-4:30pm | Free
TED Talks10:00 – 11:30 amFree | Registration Required
Active Minds10:00 am – 12:00 pmBy Donation | Drop-in
Manicures & PedicuresJan 16 • 10:00 am – 2:00 pm$15/$18 Add $5 for polishRegistration Required
Computer Drop-in with Tutor 1:00 - 4:00 pm | Free
Elvis’ Birthday CelebrationJan. 9 • 1:30pm | $8Registration required through WECC | Held at Barclay Manor
Robbie Burns SocialJan. 23 • 1:30pm | $11Registration Required through WECC | Held at Barclay Manor
Legal Clinic at Kay’s PlaceJan 16 • 10:00-12:00pmDetails page 14
FRIDAYComputer Drop-in9:00 am – 4:30 pm | Free
Happy Hookers Craft Group & Sales 10:00 am - 12:00 pmFree | Drop-in|
Manicures & PedicuresJan 17 • 10:00 am – 2:00 pm$15/$18 Add $5 for polishRegistration Required
Painting Studio12:30 - 4:00 pm Bring your own materialsFree | Registration Required
Scrabble Drop-in1:00 – 3:30 pm | Free Movie Club1:30 pm | With Popcorn!By Donation | Drop-in | p. 9
SATURDAYLadies’ Brunch Club: The Park at The Sands Hotel11:45 am | Drop-in
HOLIDAY CLOSUREClosed for New Years’ DayJan 1, 2014. Reopening Jan 2, 9:00am
All programs are at Barclay Manor unless otherwise indicated. Please note where registration is required.
13
Dinner Club: Ciao BellaA 15 year old West End staple, Ciao Bella offers delicious Italian food with over 120 different pasta combinations, as well as vegetarian, seafood and chicken options. A cozy and welcoming table awaits you in January. As always, diners pay individually. Ask for the WESN table. Located at Denman and
Alberni. Wednesday, January 15, 5:30 pm | 703 Denman Street | Drop-in
Free Legal Clinic for Seniors Returning on Thursday January 16thAre you looking for information on legal matters such as elder abuse (e.g. misuse of powers of attorney or joint bank accounts), housing, debt, pensions, advance planning, employment and human rights? The BC Centre for Elder Advocacy and Support (BCCEAS) is partners with WESN to sponsor monthly clinics for seniors in the West End. You can book your maximum ½ hour appointment by calling Kay’s Place at 604-669-7339. The lawyers will provide general information. They will not draft wills nor powers of attorney but can answer questions about them. Be sure to clearly identify what information you are seeking from the lawyers so that they can prepare ahead of time and make the best use of your time.If you prefer to get information over the phone, you can call BCCEAS’ Seniors Advocacy and Information Line (SAIL) at (604) 437-1940. To book a 1/2 hour appointment, call Kay’s Place at 604-669-7339.
Thursday January 16th | 10:00am-12:00pm | Drop-in times from 11:00am-12:00pm
Wednesday January 22nd | 2:00pm-4:’00pm| Drop-in times from 3:00pm-4:00pm
Men’s Breakfast ClubMeets in the new year on January 15 (every third Wednesday) at 9am. Meets always at Hamburger Mary’s Diner, located at the corner of Davie & Bute. No reservation needed, ask for the WESN table. Pay your own bill, but first timer’s receive a complimentary breakfast, paid for by WESN. The fare is manly and welcoming; the camaraderie, macho. Wednesday, January 15, 9:00 am | Hamburger Mary’s Diner, Davie + Bute | Drop-in
Men’s Breakfast ClubMeets in the new year on January 15(every third Wednesday) at 9am. Meets always at
Hamburger Mary’s Diner, located at the corner of Davie & Bute. No reservation needed, ask for the WESN table. Pay your own bill, but first timer’s receive acomplimentary breakfast, paid for by WESN. The fare is manly and welcoming; the camaraderie, macho.
Wednesday, January 15, 9:00 am | Hamburger Mary’s Diner, Davie + Bute | Drop-in
MMeenn’’ss BBrreeaakkffaasstt CClluubbMM((
HH&&PPccTT
NOTES FROMSTAFF
ONE.1
PROGRAMS& CLUBS
4. FOUR
14
Mobility Days Clinics Starting in JanuaryShoppers Home Health will be off ering once monthly Mobility Clinics at Kay’s Place and Barclay Manor, beginning Jan 7th at Kay’s Place. Bring your walker or scooter in for free adjustments and consultations. Any additional parts required will come at extra cost. Please call to register for your free 20-minute appointment. Tuesday, January 7• 10: 00am-2:00pm | Appointment Required | Call 604-669-5051 | Kay’s Place at Denman Mall
WESN ServicesWe strive to help seniors in the West End feel connected to their community and continue to live independently. We off er a variety of free Life Unlimited services and WESN membership is not required.
Daily Callers
A morning “check-in” call at the same time every day of the year to ensure all is well. If you don’t answer, we follow emergency protocol to ensure you get help immediately.
Friendly Visitors
Weekly one-on-one visits in your home to enjoy companionable conversation.
Accompaniment to Medical Appointments
We go with you to and from your appointment to make it an easier and more comfortable experience. For the above services, please call Wanda on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm at 604-669-5051.
Weekly Grocery Shopping
Place your order with us for IGA on Wednesday mornings or Safeway on Thursday mornings and your groceries will arrive that afternoon. Visit our website or call for details.Call Melanie Tuesday to Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm at 604-669-5051.
Information & Referral
To get current information and tips on accessing a range of resources, forms, and services, call 604-669-7339 or visit us at Kay’s Place in Denman Place Mall Monday to Friday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm.
NOTES FROMSTAFF
ONE.1PROGRAMS & SERVICESCONTINUED
4. FOUR
15
NOTES FROMSTAFF
ONE.15. FIVE
BETTER AT HOME
WESN Joins Modo and Boosts Roster of Volunteer Drivers
One of the biggest perks of living in the West End is that the neighbourhood’s density and walkability means that many of us do not need to drive. The downside of not having a car, of course, is that
on those few occasions when we do need to make it to a doctor’s or other important appointment, we may fi nd ourselves stuck. Not having access to a car has been identifi ed as one of the biggest barriers to accessing health services for seniors living in the West End. It’s also a barrier for potential volunteers to give their neighbours a lift even if they have a driver’s license and the heart to do so.
Recognizing this barrier, WESN joined Modo, the Car Co-op, so that anyone with a helping heart and clean driving record can give their neighbours a much-needed ride to their doctors. Volunteers have responded well to this eff ort and we are proud to announce that we have a strong roster of volunteers ready to give seniors a ride. WESN cov-ers all gas and insurance expenses for volunteers and seniors pay a subsidized rate ($0 - $10) for a round-trip to their appointments. In addition, volunteers, trained in assisting seniors with mobility, visual, or hearing challenges, will escort seniors from door to door. To volunteer as a driver or to book a ride to your doctor’s appointment, please contact Melanie Morris at 604.669.5051 or email her at [email protected]
A very special “Thank You” to the Rotary Club - Vancouver Sunrise and the Westin Bayshore Hotel for hosting such a fabulous and enjoyable
Rotary Holiday Luncheon for 350 of our members! We are grateful for your generosity in sponsoring this annual tradition.
16
IMPORTANT DATES
IMPORTANT DATESJanuary 1 - CLOSED
January 7 - Mobility Day Clinic at Kay’s Place
January 9, 1:30 - Elvis’ Birthday Celebration
January 15, - Dinner Club at Ciao Bella
January 16, 1:30 - Legal Clinic at Kay’s Place Returns
January 20, 2:00 - Birthday Tea
January 22, 2:00 - Access Transit Workshop on the Compass Pass System
January 23, 1:30 - Robbie Burns’ Social
ADVERTISE WITH US!Email Eric at [email protected] for rates and advertising info in our monthly 1,500-print newsletter.
January Computer Lab Schedule Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
9:00Drop-in
9:00-1:00
10:00
11:00Computer Coach in
12:00 10:00-12:00
1:00
2:00
3:00
4:00
Drop-in 9:00-4:30
Drop-in 9:00-4:30
Drop-in with Tutor
11:00-1:00
Texas Hold 'Em 1:00-3:00
Legal Advice Appts - Call 878-7400 3:00-5:00
Computer Coach in English,
Cantonese or
Drop-in 12:00-4:30
Drop-in 9:00-4:30
17
Investors Group Walk for Memories Vancouver.In support of the Alzheimer Society of B.C.
Date: Sunday, January 26th 2014 in Stanley Park Pavilion (next to Malkin Bowl).
Registration starts at noon; Walk begins at 1pm.Please RSVP to Sheila Dunn via email to [email protected]
or by phone at 778-323-7855.
The West Coast Domestic Workers’ Association & Gordon Neighbourhood House invite you to a free legal information session and mobile legal advocacy clinic for Live-In Caregivers, their friends, and their support communities in Vancouver.
When: Sunday, January 12, 2014Where: Gordon Neighbourhood House,
Room 4, 1019 Broughton St,Time: 12:30PM to 3:30PM
Free coff ee & snacks will be provided.To register for the workshop, or for more information, please contact Ana Maria Bustamante, Multicultural & Community Development Coordinator, Tel (604) 683-2554
6. SIX***************** A N N O U N C -MENTS
The BC Balance And Dizziness Disorders Society (BADD)
invites you to our
AAnnual General Meeting followed by a
SSharing & Support SSession
facilitated by Jolene Harrington Registered Audiologist at St. Paul’s Hospital
followed by
FFREE Snacks & Socializing
Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2014 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Hurlburt Auditorium St. Paul’s Hospital
Open to the public. Bring your friends.
For information please call BADD,
6604-8878-88383 Toll-free: 11-8866-7780-22233
www.balanceanddizziness.org
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By Evelyn Black
Kay’s Place once again held their annual “ Seniors in Need” fundraiser on November 30th. It was a rainy day but many shoppers came by to listen to the music, see what was for sale, and some did a little Christmas shopping. $1100 was the result and I’m sure that those who are the future recipients would thank each and everyone of the members and volunteers who helped make this a fun and happy sale. A little history about the Seniors’ in Need Fund: this fund was started at Kay’s Place. People come there for help, sometimes because they can’t afford rent, they have no money left over at the end of the month for groceries, or simply that Christmas is coming and they are lonesome. A gift of money can change their life. Volunteers make this possible by having Sales. The Coast hotel graciously co-operates by letting us use the common space in the mall to raise money for the Fund. We appreciate the work of the Happy Hookers Craft Group, who bring in a lot of money each year to the West End Seniors’ Network by way of selling their handmade items year-round. I was one of the original Happy Hooker members. In fact the name was suggested because at the time I was hooking a rug that someone did not finish. We were interviewed by CTV Television and I still have a copy of the interview. The Hookers have become mostly a knitting group and they have earned enough money to provide many needed items for Barclay Manor. This group not only earns money but provides social interaction between members who would not otherwise meet each other.
The Network also has “White Elephant” sales. I looked this up because I wascurious as to where this name came from and what did it mean. The “White Elephant” part of this term came from the nature of owning a white elephant in the Asian country of Siam (modern day Thailand. To this day, an albino elephant provides nothing to the owner other than the honor of owning it, yet it still eats and takes work to maintain. The parallel in the sale is that the items are of no use to those selling them but at the same time retain some value. In the case of a “White Elephant Sale” the value is for the new owner.Donations from members for a “White Elephant Sale” helps bring in additional funds for the Seniors’ in Need Fund.
6. SIX***************** UPDATE ON SENIORS IN NEED FUND
SENIORS IN NEED FUND AT KAY’S PLACE
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SPOTTED AT THE ROTARY LUNCHEON
West End Seniors’ Network would like to thank all of the businesses who donated prizes for our annual Raffl e fun-draiser. We were able to raise around $1,000 thanks to you! Thank you to: Seventeen89 Restaurant + Lounge, Pharmasave Westend, the Sylvia Hotel, Blenz and Your Independent Grocer on Davie Street.
Clockwise from top-left: Strathcona Youth Choir sing Christmas carols; lots of mingling and socializing during lunch; volunteers Rachel and Rafael sold lots of raffl e tick-ets; attendees enjoy a delicious turkey dinner with all the fi xings; WESN President Philip Waddell thanks the Rotary Club and the Bayshore for their continued support. Photos by Silmara Albi. www. silmaraalbi.com
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SPOTTED AT THE WEST END SENIORS NETWORK
Clockwise from top: Ernie and friend enjoy the festivities at Christmas in the Square; Seamus entertains the Clothes and Collectibles team; Frank leads the Heritage Harmonies as they carol during the Open House; Anne visits with MLA Spencer Chandra Herbert.
21
DAVID WATTSNOTARY PUBLIC
604-685-7786 | [email protected] – 675 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 1N2
Wills, Power of Attorney & Representation Agreements
Real Estate Transfers & Mortgages
In-Home Visits Available
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End of Year Donations
Thinking of making an end-of-year donation to your favourite
charity? Here are just a few examples of how WESN could use
your support:
• $25 = One grocery card for Safeway or No Frills for seniors accessing our Senior in Need fund.• $95 = One month cleaning for Kay’s Place and Clothes & Collectibles• $100 = Sandwiches and refreshments for one of our monthly members’ Birthday Teas • $150 = Food & supplies for one WESN quarterly membership meeting.• $180 = The cost of providing one month of clinical supervision for our Senior Peer Support program to ensure the safety of vulnerable elders in our community.• $1,000 = The approximate cost of printing one month (1500 copies) of the WESN newsletter.
All donations made to WESN are eligible for a tax deduction and are most gratefully received. Please visit www.wesn.ca to make a secure online donation with your credit card or send a cheque payable to : West End Seniors’ Network
1447 Barclay Street, Vancouver BC V6G 1J6
West End Seniors’ Network 1447 Barclay Street Vancouver, BC V6G 1J6
Charitable Tax #11929-2845RR0001
Our Vision: A West End community that inspires and supports older adults to live involved, vibrant and fulfi lling lives.
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