I hope you made the most of summer! And if you’re still holding onto it, don’t worry – September usually brings us plenty of hot, sunny days to enjoy before we ease into fall. You may already know about my love for autumn and all it brings: back-to-school energy, cozy sweater weather and the warm colours in the trees.
Over the years, I’ve come to realize that September feels more like a fresh start than January. It’s the time I sit down to sort through my thoughts, wishes and goals for the year ahead. I often ask myself, “Where do I really want to put my time and energy?” September is also when I feel most rested, which makes it easier to honestly commit to projects and activities that matter to me, beyond my day-to-day responsibilities.
If you’d like to share, I’d love to hear about the soul-nourishing projects you’ll be focusing on this fall. As for me, I’ll be trying something new by taking a university class, welcoming a puppy into my life and—hopefully—getting back to my crochet projects.
Coming up in the community
If you’re still looking for something meaningful to pour your energy into this fall, we have plenty of opportunities for you. Join us to connect with others, challenge your brain, move your body and discover new skills. And while I have your attention, I’d like to properly introduce three new activities in our line-up and a new volunteering opportunity.
First, the Think Fit program will join our Thinking Tuesdays lineup, alternating with our Brain Power Drop-in, which remains a more structured option. Think of this new program as a gentle workout for your brain! Facilitated by a volunteer, it will help you to practice cognitive skills such as memory, attention and planning through dynamic group activities. It’s a drop-in activity, so no registration is required.
Second, Safe at Home is our newest knowledge-transfer workshop, designed for older adults and caregivers concerned about staying safe at home. This idea sprang from conversations with community members wanting practical guidance on safely transferring themselves or others, preventing falls and responding if one occurs. Led by a registered occupational therapist, the workshop is offered free of charge to small groups twice a year, with limited spots available.
Third, we’re excited to introduce 50+ Fitness classes starting September 23. The program includes low-impact cardiovascular activities like dance, along with strength and balance training. Our certified instructor will ensure that every exercise can be adapted to your individual needs and abilities. The cost is $60 for 12 weekly sessions. You can register here.
Help shape our new Grandpals initiative
Lastly, we’re excited to share that our Well 50+ and Family Matters programs are joining forces to create an innovative volunteer opportunity: the Grandpals Initiative. This project will pair older adults who wish to share their time, knowledge and support with parents in the community who could benefit from a grandparent figure. Becoming a “Grandpal” can bring joy, purpose and meaningful connections—especially after retirement. Calling all older adults interested in helping shape the Grandpals project! We’d love your input and maybe even your participation. Please take our short Grandpals Survey.
Whatever you choose, I hope these activities give you the chance to recharge, connect, and enjoy the months ahead. For more information, please take a look at our events calendar.
Something to put in your calendar
Before signing off, I’d like to remind you about Fall Fest on Saturday, September 20, at Quebec High School. This annual event is a wonderful chance to learn about services available to the English-speaking community of the region and to connect with its members. I’ll be there to share information about our programs, and I’d be delighted to meet both new and familiar faces, so please be sure to come by and say hello!
Wishing you a smooth transition into fall,
Anaïs