Due to overwhelming success, St. Paul’s L’Amoreaux Centre will host another Companion Connections, a social networking event designed for adults 55 years and older on Saturday, September 12, 2009 from 2:00-5:00 pm. A city-wide event, Companion Connections is a unique social event that allows older adults and seniors to meet new people, expand their social network, and make social connections.
As people get older, it becomes more challenging for them to expand their social networks and meet new people. This is especially true for individuals who are widowed, divorced, or isolated. Companion Connections is a fun, relaxed, and safe environment in which participants can meet up to 20 other single seniors in one day.
Companion Connections is modeled on a typical speed dating framework in which participants are given time to get to know each other in a relaxed conversation. Icebreaker questions are available for those who are nervous or shy. Men rotate seats every 6 minutes while women remain seated. If an individual is interested in their conversation partner, he or she will check off the person’s name on their score sheet. Contact information will only be given if both parties have checked off each other’s name. Our April event was successful with 21 matches being made.
St. Paul’s L’Amoreaux Centre’s Executive Director, Larry Burke, acknowledges the need for such programs in facilitating friendships for this audience. “The success of our first Companion Connections program demonstrates the need for these socialization opportunities for older adults and seniors.”
Companion Connections is a collaboration among several community agencies and seniors’ centres across the GTA. Partners include West Hill Community Services, Harmony Hall, North York Seniors Centre, Premier Home Care Services, Scarborough Support Services, and Revera Living. Participants are eligible to win several door prizes and will receive goody bags to take home. Steeles Deli Restaurant in Thornhill, Ontario, a long time supporter of St. Paul’s, will once again provide refreshments for participants.
Registration will be on a first come, first served basis. St. Paul’s will not be reserving spaces. The last day to register for this event is Friday, August 28, 2009.
For more information, please call 416-493-3333 ext 271.
