SASKATOON — An organization in Saskatoon dedicated to healthy aging and well being of older adults aged 55 and over, Saskatoon Council on Aging is preparing to host to fall events that supports health and positive aging in Saskatoon and the broader Saskatchewan community.
Saskatoon Council on Aging (SCOA) is a community-based, not-for-profit organization and a vital resource centre serving a vibrant community of adults aged 55 and over. SCOA was founded in 1991 by a group of passionate seniors and grew out of recognizing the need for a centralized resource centre for older adults in Saskatoon and surrounding areas.
Virginia Dakiniewich, Saskatoon Council on Aging Fund Development and Communication Coordinator says the upcoming Zoomer Idol, set for October, has been taking place since 2014.
This gala event is unique as it showcases the talents of older adults 50 and over. Every year it features a distinct theme to match a decade of style, such as the Nifty 50’s. Performers encompass all backgrounds and musical genres and include vocalists, bankds and musicians. The event also serves as a fundraiser for the organization as fans, friends and family members can vote for one dollar per vote in this friendly competition. The event will be held at the Western Development Museum on Oct. 24.
Dakiniewich says, “Zoomer Idol is a also an important fundraiser for the Saskatoon Council on Aging and supports our efforts to provide programs and services for a rapidly growing older adult population. The event also supports positive aging by empowering older adults to take centre stage and embrace their talents. “
Also upcoming in October, the SCOA is hosting a Spotlight on Seniors tradeshow at TCU Place, Oct. 7.
“The first Spotlight on Seniors was held on Nov. 1, 1999 to recognize the International Year of Older Persons (IYOP). The show was held in a downtown hotel and featured trade show booths and entertainment. Spotlight has expanded since then and the venue has moved to TCU Place, in downtown Saskatoon,” adds Dakiniewich.
Gearing the event towards adults 55 and up this event also corresponds with Seniors Week in Saskatchewan, a week proclaimed by the province to celebrate the contributions of older adults. The number of vendors ranges from 70-80 or more.
“The purpose of this event, and the benefits it offers seniors includes:
To educate and entertain older adults in Saskatoon and area
To provide information to older adults about community services and programs
To promote positive aging
To raise funds to support the programs and services of SCOA
To increase awareness of SCOA and TCU Place to all participants “
SCOA says they enjoy connecting with all of the older adult population, but are specifically interested in reaching new retirees and those on the verge of retirement.
Speaking to how the organization is funded, Dakiniewich says, “Information on our partners and funders can be found on our website scoa.ca. Like many in the non-profit community, fundraising is a constant challenge.”
SCOA employs nine staff members and also includes 13 volunteer board members. The SCOA Rescource Centre and office is located in the Saskatoon Field House on College Drive where they can host activities such as Lifelong Learning Classes and Caregiver Cafes.
Dakiniewich says some of their organizations other highlights include, “Our Caregiver Cafes feature topics such Introduction to Caregiving, Downsizing, Nutrition and Older Adults, Social Prescribing and many more. The Cafes provide education, support and networking opportunities for caregivers. Lifelong Learning includes technology workshops, arts and crafts, writing, fitness, finance and legal topics. Visit our website scoa.ca to learn more about our events and programs. “
You can learn more about the Saskatoon Council on Aging on their website https://www.scoa.ca/ or find them on Facebook @scoa25
