Power of partnership
June Collings and Cathy Anderson enjoy spending time with Marko through the Lunch Bunch program.
By Meaghen Taylor-Reid, CLBC Facilitator, Port Moody
Through a partnership between CLBC’s Simon Fraser Region and the City of Burnaby Citizen Support Services, individuals supported by CLBC are volunteering to connect with seniors and people with disabilities in their community.
Citizen Support Services (CSS) has a variety of programming for seniors ranging from a telephone program to grocery shopping to outings and lunches. CSS presented their programs to our CLBC team and looked at how individuals we support could contribute.
“It was very clear from the get go that a partnership was a great idea,” says CLBC Facilitator Jenny Lau.
Marko is one of the participants in the lunch program, where he spends time with seniors who may be socially isolated. “Marko attends the program each Thursday, where he assists and socializes with shut-in seniors and persons with disabilities who enjoy their weekly lunch outing,” says Shauna Grant, Volunteer Program Coordinator.
“Marko has a gentle and caring way about him that truly appeals to the clients and volunteers alike. The participants enjoy his company and his youthful outlook adds a spark of humour and energy to the group,” says Executive Director Anne Weller.
Most recently we have had a self-advocate, Colleen, join in the fantastic program as a senior participant herself. “It is so very wonderful for Colleen to have this connection. It’s a wonderful group of staff, terrific programs and great safeguards,” says Jenny.
“I’m excited to be included in this program. I love meeting new friends and getting help with shopping. Everyone is so kind and I’m also looking forward to Christmas time with this group,” says Colleen.
CLBC’s Simon Fraser Region would like to extend our thanks to the Citizen Support Services team for their wonderful work and for their openness to the possibility of a partnership.
