Launch of the Project “Growing Older Together: Breaking Isolation and Building Connections”

Event Report

Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026

Location: Ottawa, Ontario

Organizer: RAFIO

Project: Growing Older Together: Breaking Isolation and Building Connections

Funding: Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) – New Horizons for Seniors Program

Introduction

On Saturday, May 30, 2026, RAFIO officially launched its project, “Growing Older Together: Breaking Isolation and Building Connections,” dedicated to supporting seniors in the community.

This warm, welcoming, and community-centered event brought together seniors, community partners, elected officials, and community members around a common goal: to promote well-being, foster social inclusion, and strengthen meaningful connections among older adults in order to reduce social isolation.

Made possible through the financial support of Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) under the New Horizons for Seniors Program, this initiative aims to provide educational, social, and recreational activities that encourage seniors to remain actively engaged in community life.

Activity Overview

The event took place in a warm, friendly, and festive atmosphere. Throughout the day, participants took part in a variety of activities designed to educate, raise awareness, and encourage meaningful interaction and relationship-building.

Activities Conducted

Participants had the opportunity to attend several workshops and presentations, including:

• A cybercrime prevention workshop to help seniors recognize and protect themselves against online fraud and scams;

• A mental health workshop led by a psychotherapist, focusing on emotional well-being and strategies for maintaining good mental health;

• A presentation and discussion with the Honourable Mona Fortier, providing participants with the opportunity to discuss issues affecting seniors;

• Networking activities that encouraged interaction among participants, community partners, and invited guests;

• Intergenerational activities designed to strengthen relationships between different generations;

• Musical performances, dancing, and celebration activities that created a lively atmosphere and encouraged new friendships.

  
  

Participation and Feedback

The event attracted an excellent turnout. Seniors actively participated in the various workshops and activities, demonstrating great interest in the topics presented and remarkable enthusiasm throughout the day.

The workshops, presentations, and cultural activities encouraged meaningful discussions and strengthened participants' sense of belonging within the community. The music and dance performances were particularly well received and contributed to creating a joyful, welcoming, and inclusive atmosphere.

Project Significance

This event marks the beginning of a project designed for seniors and with seniors. Throughout the project, participants will be encouraged to take an active role in the activities offered, promoting personal growth, community engagement, and the development of meaningful social connections.

The project also aims to reduce social isolation, promote active aging, and strengthen solidarity within the community.

Acknowledgements

RAFIO would like to express its sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this event, including:

• The Honourable Mona Fortier and the Honourable Lucille Collard for their remarkable presence, encouragement, and continued support;

• Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) for its financial support through the New Horizons for Seniors Program;

• All of our community partners for their collaboration and trust;

• The seniors who participated and remain at the heart of this initiative;

• Our invited guests for their presence and participation;

• Our dedicated volunteers and the entire RAFIO team for their commitment, professionalism, and outstanding work.

  
  

Conclusion

The official launch of the “Growing Older Together: Breaking Isolation and Building Connections” project was a tremendous success. The event brought together seniors, community partners, elected officials, and community members around a shared vision of building a more inclusive, supportive, and compassionate community.

Through informative presentations, engaging workshops, meaningful discussions, cultural activities, and joyful moments of music and dance, participants had the opportunity to build new relationships, share experiences, and embark on a promising initiative that will continue to promote their well-being and active participation throughout the year.

RAFIO is proud to carry this initiative forward and remains committed to providing seniors with meaningful opportunities to connect, thrive, and age together in a welcoming and inclusive community.