HeARTful Living for Seniors is a hybrid (remote and in-person) learning series designed to bring together seniors in a shared learning experience over 12 weeks. It is brought to you by V Serve Canada  in association with Shubh Helping Hands, powered by Ontario Trillium Foundation.

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V Serve Canada, a federal nonprofit founded in 2019, is dedicated to enhancing community wellness, especially among vulnerable groups. We champion social well-being through cultural arts and heritage. Our mission is to create a positive impact nationwide through our events and programs.

The program covers four essential areas: Cybersecurity, Nutrition, Visual Storytelling and Art. Each session is structured to engage participants through lectures, hands-on activities, and group discussions, fostering a sense of community and lifelong learning.

Visit our website: vservecanada.com

Part 1 - Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity sessions will provide essential knowledge on protecting personal information online, understanding digital literacy, and safe internet practices. These sessions aim to empower participants, especially seniors, to navigate the digital world confidently and securely.

Part 2 - Nutrition

Nutrition lectures will focus on healthy eating habits, understanding nutritional labels, and cooking demonstrations. These sessions aim to promote better health outcomes by educating participants on the importance of balanced diets and providing practical tips for incorporating nutritious foods into their daily routines.

Part 3 - Visual Storytelling

Visual storytelling workshops will teach participants how to tell compelling stories through photography and video. Participants will learn techniques for capturing and sharing their personal and community stories, fostering a greater sense of connection and empathy.

Part 4 - Art

Art sessions will explore various forms of creative expression, including painting, drawing, and crafting. Participants will have the opportunity to develop new skills, express themselves creatively, and connect with others through shared artistic activities.

Impact

Research shows that engaging in art activities can significantly enhance the mental and emotional well-being of individuals, particularly seniors. A study by the National Endowment for the Arts found that older adults who engage in artistic activities report better overall health, fewer doctor visits, and reduced medication usage.

Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining health and wellness, especially for vulnerable populations such as children and seniors. The Ontario Public Health Association emphasizes the importance of nutrition education in preventing chronic diseases and promoting overall health.

Visual storytelling can serve as a powerful tool for community building and personal expression. According to a report by the Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health, storytelling helps individuals, especially in vulnerable communities, to process experiences, build resilience, and foster social connections.

Cybersecurity is increasingly important in today's digital age, particularly for seniors who may be less familiar with online safety practices. A study by the Cyber Security and Protection Council highlights the need for digital literacy education to protect vulnerable populations from online threats.

Ontario, particularly Mississauga, has diverse and vulnerable populations that can greatly benefit from community wellness programs. According to the Region of Peel's Health Status Data, there are significant health disparities among seniors in Mississauga, with many facing challenges related to mental health, nutrition, and digital literacy. Programs like HeARTful Living address these gaps by providing accessible, educational, and engaging activities that promote well-being and community cohesion.

Session Format:

1. Introduction to the Organization and Expert (5 minutes)
   • Brief overview of V Serve Canada and introduction of the session's expert speaker.
2. Core Module by Expert (30 minutes)
   • In-depth lecture or demonstration on the session's topic (Art, Nutrition, Visual Storytelling, or Cybersecurity).
3. Group Activity (30 minutes)
   • Hands-on activity or discussion related to the core module, encouraging interaction and practical application of the knowledge gained.

Register Today at vservecanada.com

HeARTful Living for Seniors aims to create a supportive and enriching environment where participants can learn, share, and grow together. By addressing critical areas of wellness and providing opportunities for creative expression and digital literacy, this intergenerational program will contribute to the overall health and well-being of our community. We look forward to your support and participation in making this initiative a success.

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