Sundae Festivals

Sundaes, Seniors and YOU! On April 30th, be part of an event capable of transforming the social horizon of a senior at risk of isolation.  If you had to call a friend for help right now, could you? If you wanted someone to discuss your problems with would you find a sympathetic ear? Will a family member care for you when you are sick or injured? Could you find someone to do something with on the weekend?

There are an estimated 10,000 seniors in Ottawa who would respond “NO” to these questions.

Reaching Out to Isolated Seniors (ROTIS) has created one single phone number that anyone can call if they are concerned about a senior.  ROTIS is inviting your support to increase the profile of this single access phone number with a fun event for everyone.

Sundae Festivals is a project to organize an ice cream social for seniors that can be taken on by small groups of children and youth. Each group can adapt the event to their community, school or church.  April 30, the last Wednesday of April has been selected to launch this new annual community event.

Why Ice Cream?
Ice cream was a popular treat for many Canadians throughout their life, often connected to socials.  Ice cream is a soft food that is enjoyed by all ages.  There is a wide range of flavours and toppings.  Scooping and serving ice cream develops dexterity, yet is an easily learned skill.  The equipment needed is readily available and clean up is easy.  Ice cream is a different way to raise awareness and funds. 

Sundae Festivals offered by groups across the city will make it a neighbourhood project with citywide impact. 

ROTIS will provide a simple project plan that groups can adapt to their event, including information on the target audience, links to programs and coordination of the media campaign. 

Everyone wins!

The youth will develop their leadership skills and bring happiness to the recipients.  Skills utilized include planning, communication, teamwork, math, budgeting, social, troubleshooting and evaluation.

The seniors benefit from the social activity through stimulation, learning about services and making community connections.

ROTIS will increase its community profile of the one-stop support number for seniors in isolation. 

Want to participate? 

If you are interested in joining the Sundae Festival campaign, or want more information, please contact Sue Hall at 580-2424 ext 23623 or email at susan.hall@ottawa.ca. 

Please pass on this information to others you feel might adopt this project. 

Thank you for considering adding this event to your group’s calendar.