SPECS Project
The Social Prescriptions Engage Cultural Seniors (SPECS) project is an initiative operated by the Community Waterfront Heritage Centre (CWHC), aimed at enhancing the well-being of seniors by involving them in cultural and community activities. It focuses on social prescribing, which links seniors with non-medical support and activities in their community to improve health and well-being.
What is Social Prescribing?
Social prescribing is a way of addressing people's non-medical needs by connecting them with community resources and activities. It involves referrals from health professionals or community organizations and/or self-referrals from community members to a "link worker" who helps them find appropriate social or cultural activities to improve their overall well-being.
What are the goals and benefits of the SPECS project?
The SPECS project aims to:
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Enhance the social connections and reduce loneliness among seniors
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Provide opportunities for cultural engagement and lifelong learning
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Improve mental and physical well-being through active participation in community activities
Benefits of participating in the SPECS project include improved social connections, enhanced mental and physical well-being, opportunities for lifelong learning, and a sense of purpose through active involvement in community and cultural activities.
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What types of activities and programs are offered as part of the SPECS project?
The SPECS project offers a variety of activities and programs, such as:
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Local history presentations at the CWHC
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Tours at Billy Bishop Museum
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Art exhibits at Tom Thomson Art Gallery
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Afternoon movies at the Library, and more!
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To learn more about upcoming activities and programs, please view the SPECS calendar of events at the link below.
How to access the SPECS Project?
Seniors can get involved in the SPECS project by connecting with a link worker who will guide them to suitable activities and programs offered by the CWHC and its community partners. To connect with a link worker: please call 519-371-3333 or email specs@waterfrontheritage.ca. A link worker will then reach out to you to discuss your interests and needs and help you find suitable activities and resources.
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Note: Participation in most aspects of the SPECS project is free of charge. Some cultural organizations and events not funded by this program may offer events at a reduced rate for seniors.
Interested in volunteering with the SPECS Project?
The SPECS Project is actively seeking dedicated volunteers to help connect individuals with meaningful culture-based and community activities. Your involvement will play an important role in ensuring that seniors can fully engage with opportunities that enrich their lives and strengthen their connection to the community. To join the SPECS Project in making a positive impact, please email specs@waterfrontheritage.ca.​
Organizational Resources
We are seeking organizations to partner with on the SPECS Project, aiming to expand the reach and impact of our program. By collaborating with SPECS, your organization can help expand access for seniors to culture-based and community activities that foster connection and growth. To help spread the word, we’ve designed a postcard and poster that you can use to market the program within your organization. Please click the links below to download the resources.
Who is funding the SPECS project?
The SPECS project is funded by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors program. This support helps ensure that the program can offer a wide range of activities and resources to participating seniors.
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