Speed dating is coming to St. Paul’s L’Amoreaux Centre in Scarborough! The popular social phenomenon that has been such a huge hit with the younger set is now finally available to older adults and seniors 55+.
St. Paul's L'Amoreaux Centre is hosting Companion Connections, a new social event specifically designed for 55+adults on Saturday, April 4, 2009 from 1:00-3:00-pm. Companion Connections is a unique way for older adults and seniors to meet peers and establish new friendships. The goal is to form new friendships and social connections among those 55+ years of age by working collaboratively with several seniors’ agencies.
Companion Connections is modeled on a typical speed dating event in which women stay seated and men rotate every 7-10 minutes. If individuals hit it off and both indicate an interest in the other by checking their name, their personal contact info will be given to their match. Contact info is only given out if both parties have checked off each other’s name. This fun, exciting and innovative introductory event enables participants to meet 20 other single seniors in one evening.
St. Paul’s L’Amoreaux Centre’s Executive Director, Larry Burke, emphasizes the importance of social events for 55+ audiences. “We’re excited to host this unique collaboration with several partner agencies to encourage socialization among older adults and seniors,” Burke states. “We're looking forward to a successful gathering of individuals who are interested in expanding their social circles and creating new relationships in a welcoming and safe setting.”
Participants will enjoy an afternoon of fun, friends, and goody bags to take home. Refreshments will be generously provided by Steeles Deli Warehouse in Thornhill, Ontario, a long time supporter of St. Paul’s. Transportation is available through a participating seniors’ centre or St. Paul’s Transportation Department for a small fee. Seats are on a first come, first serve basis and will fill up quickly. The last day to register for the event is Saturday, March 21st.
Companion Connections aims to encourage meaningful relationships for older adults and seniors. Other agencies that have pledged to promote the event to their clients span the GTA: North York Seniors Centre, Bernard Betel Centre for Creative Living, Taylor Place, Markham Seniors Centre, West Hill Community Services, Scarborough Support Services, and Harmony Hall Centre for Seniors. St. Paul’s staff is so optimistic that the event will be a success, they have scheduled a second date in September 2009 and there are plans to schedule future events for multicultural groups.
For more information and to reserve your space, please contact St. Paul’s L’Amoreaux Centre at 416-493-3333.
