Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care

Germaine moved to Manitoba in 2016 following retirement from a 50-year career in health care that included bedside nursing, teaching, research, consulting, senior leadership, and governance. She has served on the board of Riverview Health Centre for the past seven years. After joining, she soon began championing for a board-level committee that would focus on resident and staff quality of life. She has led this Quality of Life Committee since it was formed by the board in 2021. Riverview provides long-term care, palliative care, and neurological rehabilitation services to residents from across Manitoba. Most residents are older adults, many of whom transition to Riverview as their last home. Quality of life can be challenging in long-term care facilities, which can apply a one-size-fits-all approach to care. Germaine's advocacy has led to the establishment of Riverview's Quality of Life Committee, which in turn has implemented person directed living at Riverview. "Person directed living" is an approach where individuals' values and preferences are elicited and guide all aspects of their care, supporting their health and life goals. Under her leadership, the Quality of Life Committee developed a conceptual model and education curriculum to guide Riverview's culture change toward fully embracing person-directed living. This shift has been further supported by initiatives like the creation of welcome baskets for newly admitted residents, meal-time enhancements so that residents can eat how they are used to, and wheelchair-accessible picnic tables so that everyone is included in the community. The committee also played a key role in overseeing quality improvement projects, including those addressing the appropriate use of medications and mental health support for residents. Through her leadership, she has championed a holistic approach to health, emphasizing both preventative care and staff well-being. Her dedication has inspired others on the board and Riverview staff to embrace this philosophy of continuous improvements in resident and staff quality of life.

Heather Dean is a grain farmer in Southern Manitoba working alongside her family. She is close to the land and the people of her community. She volunteers as Chair of Seine River Services for Seniors (SRS), is a board member of Villa Youville in Ste Anne and the provincial organization Transportation Options Network for Seniors (TONS). She delivers meals to seniors and is a volunteer driver. Heather has encouraged SRS- led initiatives to provide affordable transportation for older adults to medical appointments in Ste-Anne, Steinbach and Winnipeg and is working with SRS to update their seniors strategy and develop a plan to identify clients and client needs in her community. She has been instrumental in securing vital funding and strengthening the connection between service providers in local communities and the seniors they support. She is involved in multiple transportation initiatives across multiple municipalities in the area. With Heather's leadership, SRS has been able to recruit new members and has gained visibility at regional and provincial levels. She writes a monthly column for the SRS Newsletter and the Dawson Trail Dispatch. She encourages people to get out to community lunches for seniors in Richer, LaBroquerie and Ste-Anne and is constantly raising awareness of what older adults need to live independently. She brings a variety of tools, not the least her skills as a physician, educational leader and internationally recognized medical researcher to her tasks as a volunteer for the seniors in her community. Over the years, Heather has built strong relationships with multiple municipal governments and the provincial government, as well as with numerous service organizations. She plays a vital role in steering attention and resources toward programs that either serve older adults directly or ensure inclusivity in broader community initiatives. Her involvement is always purposeful--she listens, contributes meaningfully, and shares her expertise for the benefit of others.

Indra was the president of Sri Lanka Seniors Manitoba (SLSM) from 2022 to 2024 and led and coordinated many preventative health programs for the senior community including weekly yoga sessions, mindfulness meditation sessions, Arthritis pain management informative sessions and others. She has been an organizer of meditation residential retreats, volunteer mindfulness session coordinator, meditation advocate and involved in mental health empowerment of seniors for about 10 years. She has been a volunteer community caretaker for many seniors in the Sri Lankan community providing food, hospital rides, and a listening ear during difficult times. Indra has engaged the community through organizing regular social gatherings like holiday celebrations and Sri Lankan cultural events and helped address social isolation by involving community members in cultural stage drama, dancing, musical performances and providing transportation assistance to appointments when needed. She has led efforts with local organizations like Siloam Mission to organize volunteers, fund raising food sales and has expanded opportunities for mental health and wellness supports tailored for older adults. She has promoted art exhibitions to showcase SLSM members' artwork and has helped support multigenerational events organized by SLSM. Indra, along with older adults and their families, have organized mental health workshop, free health screenings and educational seminars to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and healthy lifestyle choices. By collaborating with local businesses and other community organizations, she has fostered a culture of health-conscious living across diverse age groups. She is passionate and approachable, building trust with community members and encouraging individuals who were previously hesitant to seek care or make lifestyle changes. Her efforts in organizing social activities have empowered many to take proactive steps in managing their mental health, leading to a noticeable increase in participation in preventative care. Her proactive approach to promoting preventative care has made a lasting impact, especially among under-served populations. By dedicating her time and resources to empowering others, she has become a trusted leader and role model in the community. Her efforts have not only improved individual health outcomes but have also inspired a broader cultural shift toward wellness and prevention in Sri Lankan community.

Lilian Tankard is a dedicated community volunteer who contributes her time and expertise to a range of initiatives that enhance the lives of others. Drawing on her experience from the World Police and Fire Games, Lilian consulted with Active Aging in Manitoba (AAIM) by providing guidance and information to help AAIM in the event delivery and improvement of participant engagement for the Canada Senior Games. Her passion lies in supporting older adults through her skills in fundraising, leadership and strategic planning. Lilian currently serves as Chair of the Board of Directors at A & O: Support Services for Older Adults (A & O), an organization that provides specialized social services focused on three key pillars: Safety & Security, Social Engagement and Counselling. In her role, she contributes to the agency's success through strong leadership, governance oversight and fundraising support. Leveraging her extensive community connections, Lilian has helped promote the vital work of A & O and attract new volunteer board members with expertise in fields such as law, home care and housing. Her efforts ensure the agency remains responsive to community needs and continues to be a trusted resource for other not-for-profit organizations working with older Manitobans. In addition to her work with A & O and AAIM, Lilian has lent her fundraising talents to numerous organizations, including the Children's Rehabilitation Foundation, the Dalnavert Museum and the CIBC Run for the Cure.

Marilee has volunteered with Seniors Helping Hands in Reston, Manitoba as Treasurer for the past 11 years. She provides the Board with statements and annual budgets and provides Prairie Mountain Health with annual and other as assigned reports. Her contributions have kept Seniors Helping Hands running smoothly and successfully over the years. Marilee has worked on behalf of the Board, assisting with the preparation of the community's weekly Music in the Park event and enabled Seniors Helping Hands to offer a variety of community activities. Over the years, Marilee has volunteered with the community's Spring Fling and other music and speaker events organized by Seniors Helping Hands. For many years, she was a handi-van driver and assisted older adults getting to medical appointments and social events. Marilee is very approachable, connecting with employees, board members and community. She is a valuable board member and has encouraged community participation. She also belongs to a group of women who have organized a board to run the local thrift store and serves on numerous community committees.

Zinovia has lived in a 55+ independent living building for the past 16 years. Here, she has built trusting relationships with the residents and advocates for their health and wellbeing. Her door is always open to them to share their struggles and successes. She advocates with them to management, the board, and health care services so they can continue to live independently as long as possible. She has advocated for many of the tenants to receive homecare so they don't have to move into higher levels of care until absolutely necessary. She has helped many people get the supports they need to continue to live independently and has helped them optimize not only their physical healthy, but also their mental health by being a supportive, listening ear. Zinovia is also an active volunteer at a seniors program with Winnipeg's north end community centre, helping to organize monthly events for a large group of local seniors. She supports and advocates on their behalf using her skills whenever she can to help others achieve their goals. She believes that connection is essential to optimal health and has helped form a social committee at the 55+ building to encourage active living and community connection. She organizes social events such as weekly bingo, pizza parties, beach days, baseball game outings, holiday parties and Valentine's day parties. She is a natural leader and her endless energy, participation and kindness inspires everyone in the community.

Katy has been a tireless advocate for all seniors living in the North and has been actively engaged with the Manitoba Association of Senior Communities (MASC). She tirelessly volunteers her time, skills and knowledge in northern communities and with the Board of MASC. She also volunteers as a Flin Flon Station Museum board member, a Flin Flon Archive board member and Flin Flon/Creighton Seniors Inc. president. In the past, there has been little older adult representation from the north, not only in local activities but also in provincial initiatives. Geographic distances, lack of transportation and limited opportunities often lead to isolation. Katy led and organized community engagement in preparing numerous presentations and proposals regarding the shortage of personal care home supports in the north. Katy is a leader in developing the Flin Flon/Creighton Seniors Resource Council which provides excellent opportunities to ensure access to numerous provincial resources, like social prescribing. Leveraging provincial initiatives and working with numerous partners has brought remarkable improvements to supporting equity and accessibility to older adults in the north. Katy recently initiated and arranged a trip to Churchill for seniors living in the north. The community uptake of this event was hugely successful with a sold-out event. Katy also volunteered at an event welcoming older adults home following the recent wildfire evacuation highlighting healthy aging and social connection. Katy and her team at the Seniors Council gather support and resources from local businesses, the Northern Regional Health Authority and other community groups. The expanded engagement of seniors residing in the north has been evidenced by ever increasing participation in numerous community events at Flin Flon/Creighton Senior Centre. Katy was instrumental in advocating for a Senior Resource Coordinator in the north. After retiring from the Flin Flon School Division, she connected with new Canadians and refugees through teaching English as a second language (ESL) and through supporting a Syrian family coming to Canada and Flin Flon. She was also the stage manager for the Flin Flon Community Choir for numerous productions and a committee member for Habitat for Humanity. Katy respects all people, is a mentor to many, is positive and sees the bright side of many opportunities. She is constantly looking for opportunities to support healthy and active aging in her community and the north.

Norina has been a pillar of enthusiasm at the front desk of the South YMCA in Winnipeg for the past 8 years. She greets members with a smile everyday. Her greatest strength is cheering on others and convincing them daily to come back again tomorrow, to keep moving and feel great. Norina changes perspectives and makes peoples' excuses the good reasons to keep going. With funding at the YMCA, they were able to subsidize memberships to those who need assistance. Norina finds those who need it most and removes the barriers to fitness and community for all. Members look forward to seeing her and she connects with folks who come to the hub to create a real sense of community. Norina has been working to get more people to see fitness as a fun and necessary daily commitment. She creates connections with those who come often and remembers those who come rarely, which makes them feel valued and appreciated. When people come for their workout, they come to see a friend, one who encourages them to come again, and who is happy they moved their body for another day. She gets to know everyone's names, asks personal questions to invoke conversations and makes members feel special. If someone wants to make a change to their habits, you can be sure Norina will be playing an important role to help make that achievement happen. She'll book their fitness appointments, follow up to remind them, and keep the YMCA fresh in their mind. It keeps people coming back for more. Norina has a way getting people involved, encouraging people to fill out surveys or make donations. Norina takes her break from the front desk a few times per week to get in her own workout by joining one of the instructor led fitness classes. She brings her energy and passion, singing along to songs, dancing to the next station and adapting the exercises as needed while she goes. Her energy is contagious and all participants appreciate the classes she joins. Norina retired from her job and decided she wasn't done giving back to community. She works full time at the YMCA and does it because she loves it, loves the community, the service they provide, and the healthy living they promote and encourage - mind, body, and soul.

Smita has been involved in promoting healthy and active living within the Indian community and the larger Winnipeg community for over 45 years. She has been a Yoga instructor since 2011 and currently holds two classes per week for anyone interested in participating. These classes are free and accessible to seniors and other community members as they have been held online since 2019. Some older adults face mobility issues and are unable to go outdoors for exercise. Having virtual yoga classes in their homes has been critical in connecting these individuals to activity and community. Smita also educates people about the importance of physical activity. She encourages people to lead healthy lifestyles and maintain a balanced diet. Online, participants often stay behind to chat for mental well being and exchange ideas and concerns. Smita also conducts chair Yoga class with Sri Lankan Group twice a month in person. For the past 5 years, Smita has organized an event for International Yoga Day. This event has seen many participants come together to learn the importance and benefits of Yoga. Smita has also choreographed folkdances, various events for Gujerati School, Manitoba Hindu Seniors, India Pavillion at Folklorama, India School of Dance and Carman Kinnettes, to name a few. Community members and specifically from the East Indian community have welcomed Smita's efforts to teach Yoga. Many members participate in her weekly classes. The India Association of Manitoba is very grateful to Smita for leading the International Yoga day event, and her participation in shows at Folklorama since 1982. Smita also practices what she preaches and is an inspiration to many. She maintains a very healthy lifestyle and balanced eating habits. Many community members go to her for advice on physical activity and other related matters. Smita designs classes for participants who have health concerns and encourages people to routinely participate in classes to help support their health. Smita has selflessly given her time, resources and energy to many community activities related to healthy living. She never hesitates to come forward when there is a community event. Her dedication to organizing International Yoga Day event for the last 5 years is commendable. Taking part in folk dances and being on stage develops self confidence and fulfilment which is beneficial for well being and happiness to promote mind, body and spirit.

Suni has dedicated over 30 years to support the physical and emotional well-being of older adults. At 65 and beyond, Suni continues to lead by example, offering free fitness and wellness classes, creating inclusive spaces for seniors to gather and personally reaching out to isolated, racialized, and newcomer older adults to ensure they are part of a thriving community of active older adults. Many older adults, especially those who are racialized, newcomers, and immigrants, face barriers to physical activity due to social isolation, language challenges, and limited access to transportation. These obstacles often prevent them from engaging in community programs that support health and wellness. Suni has actively addressed these challenges by personally providing transportation and encouraging participation in inclusive fitness and educational sessions. She also creates meaningful social opportunities by hosting post-class refreshment gatherings, helping seniors build friendships, reduce loneliness and feel a stronger sense of connection and belonging. She has been instrumental in promoting active living within both Pembina Active Living 55+ and Sri Lankan 55+ groups, demonstrating her commitment to supporting seniors across diverse ethnocultural communities as well as the broader community. Suni's dedication to promoting physical activity and healthy living has been met with overwhelming respect and gratitude from community members and organisations. Her 15 years of active involvement with Pembina Active Living 55+, currently serving as Director and Secretary, highlight her unwavering commitment and the high regard in which she is held. Beyond fitness instruction, Suni's leadership as a director of the Manitoba Seniors Equity Action Coalition (MSEAC) has been instrumental in advancing the rights and well-being of diverse seniors across the province. Under her guidance, MSEAC played a pivotal role in a landmark provincial election campaign that secured commitments from political leaders to establish an independent Seniors Advocate Office underscoring the profound influence of her advocacy and the trust the community places in her vision for healthy aging. Suni's personal journey of active living and wellness has been a powerful source of inspiration for many in her community. Through her consistent commitment to fitness and wellness, leading by example with energy, compassion, and inclusivity, she has shown that age is no barrier to living a vibrant, healthy life. By fostering welcoming spaces where seniors can connect physically, socially, and culturally, Suni encourages others to embrace active lifestyles and prioritise their well-being, inspiring countless individuals to take positive steps towards healthier, more engaged lives.

Bethania Mennonite Personal Care Home is a nonprofit organization of the Bethania Group. Through their Therapeutic Recreation Program, they cultivate opportunity for meaningful intergenerational activities and connections devoted to improving the lives of older adults by bridging generational barriers. They participate in the VolunTeen program run by River East Transcona School Division with the Mennonite Brethren Collegiate Institute's (MBCI) grade 5 and 12 students, Westgate High School, John De Graff Elementary School, and regular visits with Concordia Day Care, providing youth opportunities to engage with older adults. Bethania's Therapeutic Recreation Programs provides a trained Therapeutic Recreation Facilitator to guide and facilitate connections between volunteers and older adults in the personal care home. They provide cues to facilitate conversation and involvement in programs that offer a positive outlook to volunteers and meaningful activities for the older adult. Intergenerational programs offered are built around creating a positive experience and include adapted bowling, balloon volleyball, arts and crafts, bingo, sing-a-longs, and creating visitation kits as part of the grade 12 biology class at MBCI. These students study the effects of dementia and cognitive impairment on functionality in the brain and as a final project, they build "visitation kits" that encourage sensory stimulation and reminiscence opportunities. This project creates awareness for people who have a form of cognitive impairment and builds understanding of the importance of personal care homes. Participants of these programs express joy and excitement in making these connections and look forward to their time together. Over the years, these intergenerational programs have expanded, often collaborating with new grade classes and organizations to foster community and connection.

Brandon Seniors for Seniors Co-op Inc. is a community-based organization committed to enhancing the well-being and quality of life of older adults in the Brandon and surrounding area. Their mission is to foster active aging, independence and a strong sense of belonging by providing social connections, resources and support services. Through a variety of programs, including recreational activities, social events, health and wellness services and meal programs, they strive to help seniors remain active, engaged and empowered within the community. Additionally, they offer volunteer opportunities to further enrich their lives and strengthen community ties. Brandon Seniors for Seniors is deeply committed to building meaningful community connections and strengthening intergenerational relationships. Their partnerships with the Brandon School Division, senior housing complexes and personal care homes have been invaluable, bringing joy, purpose and enrichment to everyone involved. Through initiatives such as pen pal programs, pumpkin activities, holiday card-making and TAPS (Technology Access Program for Seniors) with local classrooms and community organizations, Brandon Seniors for Seniors creates opportunities for seniors and youth to learn from one another, build empathy and form lasting bonds. These intergenerational experiences help reduce loneliness among older adults, foster confidence and compassion in young people and strengthen the overall fabric of the community. Brandon Seniors for Seniors' intergenerational programs show that even small, thoughtful activities can create powerful ripple effects, encouraging other groups to explore new ways of connecting generations and building a more caring, connected community for all.

Chrissy has demonstrated outstanding leadership in fostering intergenerational engagement that promotes the health and well-being of older adults. As a former member of the Bomber Alumni Board representing Cheer Alumni, she actively involves past cheerleaders in community volunteer work at charity events and Bomber games, encouraging continued participation and connection. Building on this passion, Chrissy founded Cheer Legacy Association, a non-profit dedicated to creating meaningful intergenerational opportunities that promote physical activity, mentorship and community involvement for individuals of all ages. Through her vision, older adults remain engaged, socially connected and empowered to contribute, directly supporting preventative health and overall well-being. Through Cheer Legacy Association, Chrissy has intentionally bridged generational gaps by creating inclusive, intergenerational programs that celebrate shared experiences and mutual support. By involving alumni in mentorship, volunteer work and special events alongside younger athletes, she has fostered a sense of belonging and purpose for participants of all ages. Through organized reunions, mentorship opportunities, collaborative performances, and community outreach events, she has created ongoing opportunities for older adults to remain actively engaged and contribute their experience, wisdom and support. Cheer Legacy's mentorship and volunteer programs provide meaningful roles for older members, allowing them to inspire and guide younger participants while remaining physically, socially and emotionally involved. Chrissy's vision continues to create a vibrant, supportive environment where intergenerational connections thrive, directly contributing to the well-being of older adults and strengthening the fabric of the community as a whole. Her work has inspired countless others to recognize the value and importance of intergenerational connections within the community. By demonstrating how older adults can continue to play active, meaningful roles, she has shifted perceptions about aging and community involvement. Former cheerleaders who once assumed their time in the sport had passed now find renewed purpose through mentorship, volunteering, and leadership roles. Younger participants witness firsthand the positive influence and wisdom that older members bring, fostering mutual respect and admiration across generations. Chrissy's approach has not only strengthened individual relationships but has also served as a powerful example of how bringing generations together can build stronger, healthier, and more connected communities. Her leadership continues to motivate others to explore new ways of bridging generational gaps in their own circles.

Megan has spent her entire professional career dedicated to supporting older adults in the North Kildonan community. She was part of the original team that created the Support To Seniors program model that has been adopted by many non-profit organizations throughout Manitoba and abroad. She partners with community agencies and university programs to connect youth and students with older adults to offer a buffet of health services, educational opportunities and social engagement activities that support mental health and well-being. She mentors our future nurses, social workers and more. Megan offers a gamut of programs, services and community connections on a weekly basis via community partnerships, creative arts programs and co-op placements and has encouraged older adults to feel comfortable in a safe and supportive environment to share their struggles and seek support. Megan is an out of the box thinker and is always searching for new and innovative ways to connect older adults to community. She organizes co-op placements 6-8 times per year with the Brandon University Psychiatric Nursing students, a variety of University of Manitoba students (dental, kinesiology, etc.) and Booth College social work, to provide on-sight mental health supports and services to the older adult population. These students organize various health fairs, educational sessions, group counselling and community connections. She has also partnered with schools where youth come and socialize with older adults making crafts, reading books, playing games and putting on performances. Megan's work is inspirational and she is often asked to consult and share contacts with other agencies and organizations so they too can implement similar intergenerational opportunities. Her work has inspired Good Neighbours Active Living Centre's River-East Seniors Resource Finder to partner with a local high school to offer monthly shuttle and grocery shopping chaperoned services to older adults, which was so successful, the program is expanding this fall. Megan is passionate about what she does to support older adults in the community. She goes above and beyond to ensure her clients receive the support and services they deserve to live a robust healthy life. She is community driven and as a leader, encourages others to appreciate the strength of partnerships and networking.