This weekly round-up shares the latest from Innisfil Community Foundation (ICF), updates from our grantees, and news from across our community.
The latest from ICF
- It’s 2021 and, while we hoped the challenges of last year would be behind us, the events of the past week are weighing heavily on many in our community. With COVID-19 numbers on the rise and the pain of the political chaos south of the border – including its profound impact on members of the BIPOC community – it’s been a difficult week. But tough times don’t last – tough communities do. And we know that a connected community is a strong community. As we look ahead to 2021, ICF looks forward to working with each of you to help strengthen the common good in Innisfil.
Grantee Updates
- Matthews House Hospice is launching their Seniors’ Centre Without Walls Program. Join a weekly fun and friendly telephone based activity program right from the comfort of your own home! No computer required, just a telephone. The first activity is Monday January 11th. Register today by calling Maria at 705-391-9177 or emailing mborczyk@matthewshousehospice.ca
- CMHA is hosting two free virtual sessions next week:
Supporting Our Mental Wellness During the Winter Months takes place on Thurs. Jan. 14 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. This interactive session will provide a wide range of coping strategies to help you to feel more confident about overcoming potential challenges to your sense of wellness – especially now as we enter the winter months with the continuing shadow of COVID-19.
Addressing Our Fears & Language Around Suicide takes place on Fri. Jan. 15 from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. This workshop will focus on identifying our fears around talking to loved ones about suicide. The language we use and our approach to this topic can make all the difference in creating lines of safety with others. It’s important to learn how to hold space for this conversation and remove stigma. Many find that they are may be afraid to support someone who they think may have thoughts of suicide for fear of not knowing what to say. CMHA will go over language, how to show compassion and hold space for these vulnerable conversations. Participants will talk about getting comfortable asking uncomfortable questions and the important of direct language choice. - Each year, Youth Haven provides shelter, advocacy and life skills to close to 200 youth in Simcoe County, including many from Innisfil. On Saturday, February 20th, consider walking with Youth Haven (virtually) at their Coldest Night of the Year event to experience a small part of their journey and to raise funds so that Youth Haven can support the health and hope of our young people.
Community News
- Have you seen the ideaLAB & Library’s Innisfil Hope Tree at Innisfil Beach Park? It’s a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and hope to focus the conversation on positivity within the community. A mailbox has been placed and our community is encouraged to drop off a letter sharing their hopes for the future.
Grant Opportunities
- The Government of Canada has announced funding for Community Support, Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Initiatives. If your organization is planning an event, project or community capacity building to promote and engage discussions on multiculturalism, diversity, racism and religious discrimination, you may be eligible to apply.
If you have a story that you would like us to share, please email info@innisfilcommunityfoundation.ca