About the Program

The Seniors Well-being & Engagement Program is a dynamic and evolving initiative grounded in the belief that African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) seniors deserve to age with dignity, safety, cultural belonging, and meaningful connection. The program was born from a recognition that as Edmonton’s African-descendant population grows and ages, many older adults — particularly newcomers — face complex, intersecting barriers. These include social isolation, limited access to technology, language and cultural differences, chronic health challenges, economic vulnerability, and a lack of culturally relevant services in mainstream systems.

Over time, the program has grown from small gatherings into an integrated, multi-layered support system that addresses the holistic needs of ACB elders. Seniors are not merely participants — they are cultural anchors, knowledge keepers, and contributors who shape the program’s direction. Their stories, aspirations, challenges, and strengths form the foundation of every activity.

The program’s strength lies not only in what it delivers, but in how it delivers it:

• Seniors direct and co-lead activities.
• Learning environments are respectful, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive.
• Volunteers — youth and seniors alike — build meaningful relationships.
• The program adapts continually to emerging needs, from digital literacy to elder safety.

It is a living, evolving reflection of the African philosophy that community thrives when its elders thrive.