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Welcome to 2008 and the United Senior Citizens' of Ontario's
50th Anniversary year. Now that our turkey has settled and

all our celebrations are behind us, we need to think of ways to bring new members into our clubs. One club has already let me know they have 37 new members, so don't let them beat you! Let's all work to get new members by making our meetings and programs interesting and offering exciting things to do. Could you let us know how you are increasing your membership so I can put it in The Voice for everyone to see?

June is Seniors' Month. It would be great if you could have a tea and invite all the seniors in your area (members and non members). Decorate in our colours and introduce them to the USCO 50th with balloons and information and about your clubs so they will want to join your activities and group. Invite your mayor and politicians. Could they pour the tea? If June is too late, then have it in May or even April would be great, believe it or not!

We have already set August 18 - 20th 2008 for our convention in Burlington at the Holiday Inn. Now you can put the date on your calendar and save your pennies to come. You will be introduced to our decorated arbour, but that's all the committee will allow me to tell you! We have great things planned. Stayed tuned for any other tidbit they will allow me to share. Members-at-large are very welcome. Are you curious now?

In another area of this magazine you will learn about a contest we are having. Hopefully we will be able to use this winner's submission for many years. Think back to your school songs and cheers. I can hardly wait for your talented creations to arrive at the office.

Are you working on your resolutions that are due by April 11, 2008?

On your behalf I attended the Elder Abuse Working Forum in Vancouver, BC and then attended the Elder Law Conference for two days. It was a very informative few days learning what all the other provinces and territories are doing across our great land of Canada to combat Elder Abuse. I will report more when the summaries are sent to us.

One highlight was hearing Right Honourable Chief Justice of Canada Beverley McLachlin speak. If you ever have the opportunity to hear her, do so as she is so enlightening. Some elements of the Elder Abuse workshop that came out loud and clear to me were:

  • Seniors want a 24 hour 1.800 phone line answered by a person who speaks several languages who can put them in touch with someone to help with their problems.
  • They would like a shelter or a secure place where seniors can go to get away from the abuser.
  • Seniors want police to come in civilian clothes with an unmarked police car and not ready to put someone in jail.

There is just so much information out there if you know where to go. Most seniors just don't know where to turn for help.

The newly appointed Minister of Citizenship and Immigration invites you to participate in Ontario's volunteer recognition programs for 2008. These are the programs:

  • The Ontario Volunteer Service Awards - in recognition of continuous years of service with a community organization.
  • The June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award for Volunteerism in Ontario - awarded for superlative work undertaken by individuals, groups or businesses.
  • The Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers - presented to young volunteers between the ages of 15 and 24.

Nomination forms and additional information are available on the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration website at: http://www.citizenship.gov.on.ca Click on Honours and Awards, or you can phone 416.314.7526.

We wish all clubs a prosperous happy new year with lots of fun and excitement. Looking forward to hearing from you with your song, cheer, pictures and anything you would like to pass on to the USCO.




The United Senior Citizens Of Ontario Inc.
3033 Lakeshore Blvd. W.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
M8V 1K5