Our 55+ Community: Here & Strong
For over four decades, the West End Seniors’ Network (WESN) has thrived in the heart of the West End. An active non-profit partner to the West End BIA, WESN is a place to meet new friends and access community resources. WESN is a grassroots non-profit shining a light on the contributions and participation of older adults in our neighbourhood.
Getting Connected for the Long-term
WESN operates three locations, in addition to its outreach staff in the community. Kay’s Place in Denman Place Mall is a drop-in office with friendly resource workers providing links to practical support. Clothes and Collectibles recycles donations of good quality used clothing, shoes, jewelry, books, and decorative items. The hub of WESN’s programming takes place at Barclay Manor, a Victorian heritage site humming with interesting and affordable activities.
We caught up with Claudine Matlo, WESN’s Executive Director, to find out more. “At WESN, our goal is to ensure resources are available for older adults, right here in the neighbourhood. Through our Denman Mall operations and activities at the Manor, there’s always something interesting going on and help for the day-to-day questions that come with getting older. The foundation of WESN’s strength is in our members and volunteers. Building from there, we combine support from our key funders, including City of Vancouver, United Way, Vancouver Coastal Health, and the federal government, with strong partnerships with community businesses and non-profit organizations, as well,” Matlo said.
A Cup of Coffee, New Friends & Resources
“We have a place for every senior in the West End, somewhere to feel connected. No one needs to be home alone, wondering how to make friends or how to solve a problem,” Matlo said. “WESN is a place where older adults can find the safety and support they need — we have peer counselling, concerts and lectures, coffee chat groups, and a computer lab staffed with tech savvy volunteers. One of our popular programs is called Better at Home — we understand how important familiar surroundings are to health and wellness. We operate Jane’s Fund out of Kay’s Place, helping older adults in the neighbourhood with practical needs if they find themselves in distress.”
With over 1,000 members on the roll, WESN has a wide variety of volunteer opportunities. Being active in the community while making new friends means there’s a spot for everyone. WESN partners with local businesses for support that runs both ways — stores and restaurants can show appreciation for older adults while building awareness of key neighbourhood services.
Community Safety, Support & Friendship
Everyone is welcome at WESN. Their monthly, online newsletter includes LBGTQ+ programming, health and wellness classes, language instruction, arts and crafts, as well as information on food and housing supports. There’s a friendly ear, a hot cup of coffee, and a place to feel connected. Beloved annual events like the Strawberry Festival and Christmas holiday lunch are a perfect entry to WESN’s programming. Think about how you or your business can get involved today.