Since 2004, through an annual benefit program called New Horizons for Seniors, our government has helped Canada’s seniors share their lives, abundant knowledge, skills and experiences with others.

New Horizons for Seniors is a federal grants and contributions program that supports numerous senior-led or inspired projects. Those projects vary widely. Many existing seniors’ groups apply for assistance in making renovations and updates to their buildings, but each year program administrators process applications for new projects creatively presented and planned to enrich seniors and the communities they live in.

New Horizon administrators recently held an information session in Yorkton, where my staff was pleased to connect with people representing several seniors’ organizations in the riding. Some came with plans to apply for the program for the first time; others had already benefitted from it, and hope to do so again.

Community-based projects are eligible to receive up to $25,000 in grant funding per year. Across Canada, some of the projects this valuable program has already funded have helped seniors

• learn computer skills;
• link virtually with a sister senior’s organization abroad;
• develop urban gardens;
• share the gift of music with youth and their peers;
• and learn archery.

Other approved projects have helped seniors

• educate peers about elder abuse;
• preserve their native language;
• tell stories from the past to school children;
• create ethnic cookbooks;
• and speak to groups of new retirees and those close to retirement about volunteerism.

           
It’s worth noting that the more closely an organization aligns their goals with regional priorities, and the goals outlined by the program, the greater their chances of a successful application. Those goals are:

1. promoting volunteerism among seniors and other generations;
2. engaging seniors in the community through the mentoring of others;
3. expanding awareness of elder abuse, including financial abuse;
4. supporting the social participation and inclusion of seniors; and
5. providing capital assistance for new and existing community projects and/or programs for seniors.

Providing their projects fit the program objectives and involve seniors in meaningful ways, other organizations may apply for New Horizons grants and contributions. A list of eligible organizations is found on the New Horizons website.

Only one call for proposals is planned for 2012. Keep watch for that date, expected this spring. Learn how to apply for funding and other details atwww.hrsdc.gc.ca/seniors. You may also call 1-306-564-5419 or 306-564-5417.

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The audio version of Garry's April 2, 2012 op-ed column can be heard by clicking here