For nearly five decades, CONTACT Community Services has been a trusted pillar of support for individuals and families across South Simcoe, helping people access the resources they need to build healthy, stable, and connected lives. Although many know us for our Housing supports, Employment services, Volunteer opportunities, and The Clothes Line thrift stores, we are equally proud of the work we do to enrich the lives of older adults through inclusive, engaging programs that promote physical and mental wellness, safety, creativity, and lifelong learning.
We’re always thrilled to offer dynamic, hands‑on, and educational programming for adults aged 55+ at convenient locations throughout Alliston, Beeton, Tottenham, Angus, Everett, Bradford, and Innisfil. These opportunities are made possible thanks to the generous support of the Seniors Community Grant, the New Horizons for Seniors Program, and the funds raised through our annual Grand Parade walks in Alliston, Bradford, and Collingwood.
Creating free and inclusive programming for our local seniors is not only about providing opportunities to learn and create, but also imperative to the health and well-being of older adults who are feeling isolated and alone. Joining a community seniors’ program can help older adults make new friends, feel connected to their communities and increase their overall well-being. From June 2024 to March 2025, CONTACT offered over 90 senior focused sessions throughout South Simcoe. Of the close to 400 survey respondents at these sessions over 80% reported that these programs helped to reduce their feelings of social isolation. Additionally, over 80% of participants reported that coming out to these programs made them feel more connected to their community. That’s something to celebrate!
Our most popular programs reflect a wide range of interests—from ukulele lessons and salsa dancing to pickleball, creative art workshops, budget‑friendly cooking classes, and scam‑prevention sessions delivered by our local OPP and South Simcoe Police. As we plan this programming, we are always hopeful that we provide opportunities that cover everyone’s interests.
“Friendships have been made over the pickleball nets on CONTACT-sponsored Fridays, and many people have caught the pickleball bug, asking when and where else they can play, as they want to continue after the last session, now that they’ve been introduced to the sport. An excellent measure of a successful program is the level of people’s interest in continuing the activity. I played with people of various levels of mobility, saw lots of smiles, and heard much laughter. WHO declared social isolation, experienced by 25% of older adults, a global public health concern. This program promotes a healthy, active lifestyle; social engagement; and mental well-being. You’ve really done our community a great and lasting service by making this opportunity available.” states one pickleball participant.
We are excited to offer more older adult programming as we step into 2026. With a focus on our local veterans through the Seniors Community grant, we are offering sessions at our local Legions in Alliston, Beeton, Tottenham, Everett, Bradford and Innisfil.
Our first program of the year is Healthy Cooking on a Budget – Tasty Tips for 2026! This class offered at all six Legions, gives participants fresh ideas for preparing nutritious, affordable meals at home. Each class features a new, easy‑to‑make recipe.
January also brings a great low impact exercise program to our 55+ community. Held at
St. John’s United Church in Alliston, these sessions begin on Wednesday, January 21st and run weekly until Wednesday, February 25th. Join a session or join them all! This program is open to all and a great way to get in shape for spring.
In Bradford, we are offering a unique and inclusive ‘Zumba for Seniors’ program offered by the always popular Zumba in da House! If you haven’t had the opportunity to join a Zumba class, now is the time.
Registration for CONTACT’s FREE seniors programming is easy. Simply shoot us an email to programs@contactcommunityservices.ca or call us at 705-435-4900.
We can’t wait to welcome you!