The Native Seniors' Centre is a registered, non-profit agency located at Cottage E, 10107 - 134 Avenue, Edmonton. It was established in 1996 to provide services to Native seniors residing in the City of Edmonton. The Centre receives funding from the City of Edmonton Family and Community Support Services (F.C.S.S.) for the operation of the Drop-In Centre, Outreach and Volunteer programs, and the Native Housing Registry is funded by Alberta Municipal Affairs, Alberta Seniors.
A board of Directors composed mainly of members from the Native community governs the Centre. They are responsible for Policy and Procedure and Bylaws. Members of the Board also sit on the Membership Committee, the Personnel Committee, the Financial Committee, and the Fundraising Committee. Board meetings are held at the Centre on the second Tuesday of every month except during summer months.
Currently there are five permanent staff: And administrative facilitator, and outreach coordinator, a housing registrar, a volunteer coordinator, and a bookkeeper. Members, volunteers, placement/practicum students, fine options and community service individuals assist staff with the implementation and delivery of programs and services. They also contribute their time and effort towards the several fund-raising activities the Centre has initiated.
Throughout its existence, the Centre has undergone many significant changes and continues to grom and embrace new and innovative initiatives. While the Centre has maintained some of its earlier programs and services, it has expanded to include many new ones such as, to name a few, the evening sewing class, flu clinic, foot care, sewing/quilting group, and "Friendly Visitors" program.
A major undertaking is currently in the work for the Native Seniors' Centre. A National Urban Aboriginal Elders & Seniors Symposium is tentatively scheduled for October 2004. "It is part of the Aboriginal culture that Elders and seniors are to be revere and honored for they retain the foundations of cultural existence, past and future". (Anne Cardinal)
This symposium will bring together Aboriginal Elders and seniors from around the country for an incredible experience of learning and sharing.
The Native Seniors' Centre is honored to have the opportunity to plan and facilitate such an important gathering.
