Building Connection Close to Home
Sometimes the hardest part of making a new connection is simply taking that first step. A group of local organizations is trying to make that step a little easier for older adults in Oxford County. United Way Oxford is teaming up with Southwestern Public Health, Oxford County Library and Woodstock Public Library for a series called Pull Up a Chair: Building Connection Close to Home - bringing a GenWell workshop to three Oxford communities.
The idea is to help people build social connections, whether they're feeling isolated - or simply looking for a chance to meet some new people.
Lindsay Wilson is the Community Impact & Engagement Manager of United Way Oxford, and says you don't have to consider yourself lonely to take part. The invitation is also for somebody who simply wants to get out, meet some new people ...and make a connection:
The program is aimed primarily at older adults, and it's based on growing evidence that staying socially connected isn't just good for us emotionally - it can be important to our health, too:
United Way Oxford's Community Impact & Engagement Manager says the workshops are designed to make that first visit feel pretty comfortable - even if you're walking through the door by yourself:
The workshops aren't just about talking about social connection, either. They'll include some practical ideas for getting out, meeting people and building those connections into everyday life. This isn't designed to be a one-afternoon-and-done kind of thing. Participants are invited back about two weeks later for a more casual get-together - with food, conversation and the chance to see some familiar faces and continue those new connections.
Lindsay Wilson says the real goal is what happens after everyone goes home:
The first workshop is September 10th at the Tillsonburg branch of the Oxford County Library. There are sessions in both Ingersoll and Woodstock on September 11th. They're free, and there's no registration required. It's your chance to Pull Up a Chair, and start something new.
