Author Spotlight & Recognizing OTF Support
MPP Kaleed Rasheed with AACM member Rubyha, presenting her published book.
Active Adult Centre Recognizes OTF Support at Author Reading Event
On Friday, local MPP Kaleed Rasheed attended an Authors’ Reading Event at the Active Adult Centre of Mississauga (AACM) and learned more about $60,200 in funding the organization received through two grants from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), providing integral support to modernize the Centre’s operations. The event hosted a showcase of authors from its premier Creative Writing Class, featuring readings of original poetry, fiction, and narrative nonfiction.
“The Active Adult Centre is an integral part of our community. It offers a much-needed and appreciated platform for older adults benefitting from its wide range of inclusive social and wellness programs. I am grateful and pleased that such an organization as the Active Adult Centre exists in Mississauga East-Cooksville,” said MPP Kaleed Rasheed.
The $43,900 Community Building Fund – Capital Stream grant, awarded by the OTF in December 2021, was used to replace flooring and add accessible door openers to Centre’s Studio space, enhancing safety and accessibility for seniors attending the facility.
Additionally, a grant of $16,300 awarded through the Resilient Communities Fund in Spring 2022 enabled an upgrade to the Centre’s internet and communications infrastructure to meet the evolving programming, service and support needs of community seniors. This grant has allowed the hosting of hybrid and virtual classes such as Creative Writing so that the Centre may continue offering accessible remote participation options. Funding has also covered technological needs like computer upgrades in order to meet the evolving needs of an increasingly tech-aware senior community successfully.
“The OTF grants ensure that the facility is used to its full potential for a myriad of seniors' programming, promising access to all,” says Linda Salb, Executive Director at the Active Adult Centre of Mississauga. “The upgrades to our space mean groups like our resident writers can cultivate community, belonging, and an outlet for their talents at the Centre.”
The AACM’s writing class presenting their work for the audience.
Learn more about the OTF and how they support organizations like ours here.
Interested in joining a writing class or want to try a new activity? Check out our monthly schedule.