By Melissa Smalley
An event last month aimed at informing and connecting seniors in the South Cariboo was a huge success, according to organizers who say they are pleased with the outcome.
The Second Annual Seniors Resource Fair took place at the 100 Mile Community Hall on Nov. 15, and Lea Smirfitt, executive director of the AGE-FRIENDLY Society of the South Cariboo (AFSSC), says around 350 people attended.
More than 30 exhibitors were on hand offering up information and resources on a wide variety of services, clubs, support groups and more.
Smirfitt adds the event achieved the goals set out by the society's steering committee, which were to provide information to seniors, connect seniors with one another and also to allow businesses and services to network.
"The first thing we wanted to do was to be able to share information about resources and services and we were very successful in that," Smirfitt says, adding the cafe that was set up in the hall serving a light lunch was "virtually full" through the duration of the event.
"That gave attendees lots of opportunity to visit with each other, and that was a big goal for us as well."
Smirfitt notes many of the exhibitors who participated – ranging from recreational groups to health services and contractors – were able to network with one another throughout the day as well.
"Some organizations have made plans to have guest speakers at upcoming events because they were able to meet and talk with them at the fair."
Smirfitt says the society will most likely plan to hold another similar event next fall.
She adds they may work to grow the event, as this year's fair was at capacity in the community hall.
"We had a couple of tables that weren't able to join us because we had filled the space right up."
Smirfitt also points out the event could not have taken place without the help of volunteers, businesses who contributed and those who attended.
Next on the agenda for the AFSSC will be a gathering in January that will focus on emergency services in the region. The group meets monthly, but will be taking December off to enjoy the holiday festivities around town.
Anyone who is interested in joining an e-mail or phone list for notifications about upcoming events can call Smirfitt at 250-791-6406, Ralph Fossum at 250-395-4375 or e-mail sc.agefriendly@gmail.com.