Dear Editor,
Alberta is a great place to live and many of the Albertans who continue to make it great are seniors. Seniors’ Week, from June 1-7, is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate seniors and their contributions.
The theme for Seniors’ Week 2009, Seniors – A Strength of Alberta, reflects the positive impact seniors have in strengthening our communities.
Many older Albertans spend time volunteering, caring for others, helping out in their communities and being involved with their families and grandchildren. Albertans of all ages benefit from the support and involvement of our province’s seniors.
The official Seniors’ Week kick-off celebration will take place at the Calgary Zoo on June 1. More than 1,200 seniors are expected to attend the event, where dignitaries and other special guests will pay tribute to older Albertans. Seniors will also receive free admission to the zoo that morning, along with refreshments.
Numerous other events are being held across Alberta to honour seniors. One of the events I am particularly looking forward to is the Minister’s Seniors Service Awards on June 3, which recognize Albertans who provide exceptional volunteer service to seniors. This year, more than 70 individuals and organizations were nominated for their wonderful commitment to assisting seniors across Alberta.
I hope you will join me in recognizing our seniors during this week-long celebration. It is a great time to thank them for the difference they make to our families, communities and province.
To learn more about the Seniors’ Week events in your area, go to www.seniors.alberta.ca and click on the Registered Seniors’ Week Events link.
Sincerely,
Honourable Mary Anne Jablonski,
Minister of Seniors and Community Supports
Government of Alberta