Loneliness is often thought of as something that primarily affects older adults, but the reality is that social isolation touches every generation. Young people, working adults and seniors can all experience moments when meaningful connection feels out of reach. While strong relationships are known to support both physical and mental well-being, taking the first step toward building those connections can sometimes feel overwhelming.
For seniors facing isolation, community programs and resources can be a lifeline to help alleviate loneliness and improve their mental, emotional and physical well-being. The District of Saanich and local partners can expand these offerings thanks to more than $2.5 million in funding over five years from the federal government.
The initiative focuses on strengthening community belonging by encouraging meaningful relationships across generations.
“Isolation is a serious issue for seniors, particularly for those facing language barriers, a lack of familiarity with available resources and transportation or mobility concerns,” says Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock.
“This funding will go a long way towards ensuring all members of our community can participate in activities, improve their social connections and feel like they belong in Saanich.”
The District of Saanich will collaborate with municipalities and non-profit partners to increase social inclusion of isolated older adults including newcomer, Indigenous, Black, racialized and gender diverse seniors aged 55+ in the Greater Victoria area. The initiative, Equitable Social Connection Opportunities for Vulnerable Seniors in Our Region, is funded in part by the Government of Canada’s New Horizon for Seniors program. The program addresses gaps in current services by offering a range of activities—from organized events to drop-in sessions—and transportation support to ensure accessibility.
Activities That Bring Generations Together
Intergenerational activities are at the heart of the initiative. Plans include developing:
• 150 or more activities involving youth aged 15 to 29 and adults aged 30 to 54.
• Experiences where 70 percent are co-led by older adults and youth.
• Programs where 75 percent or more participants report that expectations were met or exceeded.
These activities are designed not only to create opportunities for connection but also to build understanding and communication across generations.
Strengthening Skills & Relationships
The project is focused on building lasting relationships and stronger communication between generations. Organizers hope at least 70 percent of participants report improved cross-generational communication skills. They would like to see at least 70 percent form two or more meaningful new connections.
More than 100 older adults will participate as co-creators, evaluators and ambassadors, helping shape inclusive and accessible volunteer opportunities. Working groups will also bring together more than 100 seniors and 100 youth to develop ideas and test new approaches that strengthen community connection.
Engaging in Meaningful Ways
Older adults are central to the initiative and can participate in several ways:
• Volunteering in intergenerational activities, sharing their experience while building social connections and learning new skills
• Receiving support from volunteers while engaging socially in their homes or neighbourhoods
• Both offering and receiving volunteer support within a 12-month period
This flexible approach allows participants to engage in ways that feel meaningful and comfortable.
Measuring Real Impact
To ensure the project makes a measur
able difference, organizers have set clear goals for participation and engagement. The project aims to engage more than 800 older adults in intergenerational volunteering opportunities.
A Region-Wide Collaboration
The initiative brings together a network of organizations committed to strengthening community relationships and reducing social isolation. Participating partners include:
• District of Saanich
• Capital Regional District (CRD)
• Greater Victoria Volunteer Society (GVVS)
• Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre Society (VIRCS)
• Saanich Neighbourhood Place (SNP)
• Family Caregivers of BC (FCBC)
• Métis Nation
• Silver Threads Service
• Vancouver Island Counseling Centre for Immigrants and Refugees (VICCIR)
• Westshore partners
• City of Victoria
A Breakthrough Approach to Belonging
Loneliness can affect anyone, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. By intentionally creating opportunities for people to connect, share experiences and work together, this initiative offers a promising approach to strengthening communities.
Through collaboration, shared learning and intergenerational engagement, the project demonstrates that connection can be built, and when it is, entire communities benefit.
