“Love cannot remain by itself – it has no meaning. Love has to be put into action, and that action is service,” shared Mother Teresa. Seasons Retirement Communities’ vision is ‘CONNECT CARE CHANGE®.’ The company believes that when they take the time to genuinely connect with those around them and show that they care, they can effect positive change in their lives. Seasons strives for service excellence, so its residents can be proud to call it home. Every action taken by team members is underpinned by the commitment to make meaningful moments happen daily. This often radiates into their local communities, as seen through its Seniorosity® program. A clever combination of the words’ seniors’ and ‘generosity,’ this is Seasons’ volunteer-driven initiative designed to provide opportunities to spread compassion and spark some joy!
As a good corporate citizen, Seasons designates a portion of community relations budgets for supporting events and programs in the cities and towns where they operate retirement homes. Seasons first partnered with Food Banks Canada in 2016 after learning that more seniors aged 65 and older needed access to its services. This allowed the company to focus its corporate giving efforts on local food banks. In 2023, there were 1.9 million food bank visits from Canadians, with seniors representing 8%, the fastest rate increase across all age groups. Annually, Seasons provides the equivalent of about 3,000 meals. As of January 2024, Seasons has donated more than a quarter of a million dollars in funds and food.
Seasons communities will hold the company’s signature ‘One Can Make a Difference’ challenge from July 1 to 12 this year. It’s a can collection competition supporting each home’s chosen local food bank. The timing addresses the gap in the summer months when food insecurity is still prevalent, but the pace of giving slows. The target donation goal across all Seasons Retirement Communities is 7,000 cans. In addition to this collection, Seasons donates $2,100 on behalf of each community, with Seasons Olds and Seasons Olds Encore presenting a combined donation in the same denomination.
In honour of ‘National Love is Kind Day’ on July 27, Seasons is sharing the list of food bank partners for the ‘One Can Make a Difference’ challenge and a selection of impactful quotes from some of its communities:
“This initiative reflects the compassionate spirit of Seasons Retirement Communities as we strive to make a positive impact amidst rising food insecurity,” says Christine Boniface, General Manager at Seasons Dufferin Centre. “We are incredibly proud of our residents’ efforts during this challenge.”
“The number of Canadians living in households struggling to afford food due to rising food prices is at an all-time high, and our commitment to supporting the community remains stronger than ever,” says Sarah Periana, General Manager at Seasons Milton. “Our residents’ dedication during this year’s initiative is truly inspiring.”
“We are thrilled to bring back the annual ‘One Can Make a Difference’ challenge,” says Jackie Hay, General Manager at Seasons Wetaskiwin. “This initiative highlights our commitment to supporting residents of the local community, reflecting Seasons Retirement Communities’ dedication to making a positive impact.”
If you or your loved one would like to know how to donate to your local ‘One Can Make a Difference’ challenge or are interested in the other community-centred programs at Seasons, please click the Locations tab on our website and connect with a Fun Manager at the Seasons location closest to you.
