Spotlight on Brandon's Seniors for Seniors

3 hours ago
5 min read

Brandon's Seniors for Seniors Co-op Inc. is a community-based organization dedicated to enriching the lives of seniors in Brandon and the surrounding area. Seniors for Seniors offers a wide range of social, recreational, health, wellness, and supportive initiatives designed to foster meaningful connections and a strong sense of belonging.

In this blog series, students from Brandon University's Aging & Mental Health course (Instructor: N. Newall) conducted and wrote the interviews. Permission was given by the students and the interviewee to post the interview.

Students Ruqaiyya Abdullahi, Venissa Jankowitz, Reese Mayer, & Bryan Zepeda (Brandon University) obtained information from Executive Director, Eleysha Klaassen, and wrote up this article about Seniors for Seniors.

[This interview has been edited for length and clarity.]

"By creating spaces where seniors uplift one another, the organization challenges common stereotypes about aging and demonstrates the power of friendship at any life stage." - Executive Director, Eleysha Klaassen

"Seniors for Seniors is a place for older adults to enjoy time with one another and their community, and focus on meaningful connection and happiness." - Executive Director, Eleysha Klaassen

Student Interviewers: What is the mission of Seniors for Seniors?

Executive Director, Eleysha Klaassen: Brandon Seniors for Seniors Co-op Inc. is a community-based organization dedicated to enriching the lives of seniors in Brandon and the surrounding area. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for older adults by providing inclusive and accessible programs and services that support independence and active aging. Guided by our vision to enrich the lives of seniors, we offer a wide range of social, recreational, health, wellness, and support initiatives designed to foster meaningful connections and a strong sense of belonging.

Rooted in the values of respect, trust, appreciation, inclusion, engagement, and wellness, we strive to create a welcoming environment where every senior feels valued, empowered, and connected to their community.

Student Interviewers: Why is Seniors for Seniors needed in Brandon, Manitoba?

Executive Director, Eleysha Klaassen: As our older population continues to grow, organizations like Seniors for Seniors will continue to be necessary and central to supporting older adults through their later-life challenges. It is important as a society, to expand program outreach, increase accessibility, and strengthen community relations. It can be challenging to offer programs if the community does not come together to support one another. Community support is best shown through volunteering, donations, or simply raising awareness about available social services.

Seniors for Seniors reminds us that meaningful connection does not fade over the years, it strengthens. Older adults shape vibrant, compassionate communities through their collective efforts to give back and support their communities through sharing knowledge and showing up when others need support.

Seniors for Seniors is a place for older adults to enjoy time with one another and their community, and focus on meaningful connection and happiness.

Student Interviewers: What programs and events does Seniors for Seniors offer?

Executive Director, Eleysha Klaassen: Seniors for Seniors offers a wide variety of programs and events designed to help older adults stay active, connected, independent, and engaged in the community. Their services include:

Meals & Nutrition

Dinner is Served: Weekly home-cooked meals delivered by volunteers.
Out to Lunch: Weekly congregate hot lunch every Friday where seniors can enjoy a meal and socialize.

Health, Wellness & Safety

Victoria Lifeline emergency response service
Emergency Lock Boxes
ERIK (Emergency Response Information Kits)
Foot care & Hairdresser
Health and wellness workshops
Resource library
Health fairs and wellness events

Recreation & Social Programs

Regular activities include:

Cribbage, Bridge, Canasta
Mahjong, Chess, Scrabble
Line dancing, Walk & Talk, Book Club
Yoga, Tai Chi, Bingo, Computer Club
Exercise classes, Ball Drumming
Stitch & Chat, Pencil Drawing, Watercolor

Technology & Support Services

One-on-one technology assistance
Senior resource information
Educational workshops and seminars

Community Events

Annual and seasonal events include:

Volunteer Recognition
Yard Sale
Bus Tours
Special holiday celebrations
Fundraising events
Community open houses and appreciation events

Volunteer Opportunities

Members of the community can volunteer with:

Meal delivery
Special events
Fundraising activities
Office and reception
Program assistance
Committees and event planning

Intergenerational Programming

Brandon Seniors for Seniors also offers award-winning intergenerational activities that bring older adults together with children and youth.

These include:

Reading programs
Pen pal initiatives
Arts and crafts
Seasonal celebrations
Gardening projects
STEM and technology learning
Games and recreational activities
School and daycare partnerships

Overall, Brandon Seniors for Seniors focuses on helping adults aged 55+ remain healthy, active, socially connected, and independent through a combination of recreational, educational, wellness, meal, volunteer, and community programs.

These programs help reduce social isolation while fostering meaningful relationships between generations.

“Whether someone comes for an exercise class, a weekly lunch, technology help, or simply a chance to socialize, they leave feeling more connected and supported.” - Executive Director, Eleysha Klaassen

Student Interviewers: How does Seniors for Seniors benefit its members and the broader community?

Executive Director, Eleysha Klaassen: Brandon Seniors for Seniors helps older adults stay active, connected and independent while making our community a stronger place for everyone. Our programs give seniors opportunities to enjoy healthy meals, stay physically active, learn new skills, make friends, and take part in activities that improve their overall well-being.

Whether someone comes for an exercise class, a weekly lunch, technology helps or simply a chance to socialize, they leave feeling more connected and supported.

We also provide services that help seniors remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Programs such as meal delivery, Lifeline, emergency lockboxes, technology assistance, and

referrals to trusted service providers help older adults live safely and independently.

Our impact reaches beyond our members. We work closely with schools, community organizations, healthcare providers, businesses, and volunteers to create programs that benefit the entire community. Our intergenerational activities bring seniors and youth together to learn from one another, build friendships, and break down stereotypes between generations.

Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. They deliver meals, help with events, support programs, and give back to the community, creating a strong network of people helping people. Brandon Seniors for Seniors is more than just a seniors' center. It is a welcoming community hub where older adults can stay engaged, access important services, make meaningful connections, and continue living healthy, active lives.

Student Interviewers: How can someone become a member?

Executive Director, Eleysha Klaassen: You do not have to be a member to participate in programs and activities at Brandon Seniors for Seniors. Everyone is welcome to join us and take part in the many opportunities available.

An annual membership offers additional benefits, including weekly email with updates on upcoming programs, events, and important announcements. Information about many of our activities is also shared on our Facebook page, making it easy for both members and non members to stay informed.

Members receive discounted pricing on meals, programs, and select activities throughout the year. Membership also provides priority access for special events, where space may be limited, ensuring members have the first opportunity to register and participate.