A treasure in your back yard

James Bay Community Project

By Nansi Blenkiron

Among the many services and programs at James Bay Community Project, the services to seniors through outreach and volunteer support are a strong component. Seniors Outreach Services may include assessment eligibility for Volunteer Services which can include one-to-one volunteer supports such as reading for the visually impaired, assisted medical drives, gardening, assisted errands, friendly visiting or a walking companion. Our seniors outreach worker, Noriko Oka, can help you to identify additional community resources to meet your needs, provide information on services and programs, and refer you to other appropriate services. However, the Project offers so much more to our clients, volunteers and general public.

And what is that "so much more?"

Let's begin with the Library which is open every weekday and managed by curious, enthusiastic and lively volunteers. An ongoing partnership with the Greater Victoria Public Library brings regular infusions of new materials. But that is not all! We have a huge selection of books, videos and audio books of our own that the volunteer team keeps up-dated to offer you the best selection. This means there is also the regular opportunity to purchase our overflow - available from the hallway book shelf as you enter the building.

We have two Public Use Computers - one in the library and one in our lobby. These you can book time on for your personal use. If this idea is a little daunting and you want a little more help, we have individual Computer Lessons or you can join a Computer Class - a partnership between JBCP and Literacy Victoria.

Are you artistic? Do you want to re-engage your talent, or come and learn? Monday mornings at 10:00 - 12:00 bring your supplies and meet with others for an informal Art Class.

Or are you more interested in meeting a group of great crafters? Aids Angels () meets once a month on a Monday. With a fascinating array of creative materials this imaginative group creates beautiful angels. This is an opportunity to have fun and help others at the same time.

Life changes? Feeling a bit alone? Not sure what the next step is for you or how to move forward? Seniors Social Connections might just be what you are looking for. This wise and welcoming group meets every Thursday afternoon for a light lunch followed by a presentation or discussion. Hear about some amazing work being done in Africa by one of our neighbours, learn about making a will or power of attorney, make new friends and enjoy the afternoon. We do it all, with feeling.

Once a month we also have a Low Vision Support Group. Macular degeneration is one of the conditions that challenge us as we age. That, and glaucoma, cataracts, and other eye conditions that limit our vision also create new challenges that change our lifestyles. Thanks to the vision of one of our community members, Frank Gasgoyne, JBCP has provided a facilitated monthly Low Vision Support Group for over 10 years. We are really fortunate to have Teresa Balser, who meets with this insightful group each month. They discuss the latest innovations and discoveries to help with vision loss, bring in presenters to talk about the tools available to make life easier, and discuss among members sharing ideas and discoveries that have helped make their life richer and involved as they learn how to deal with their diminishing sight.

But there is still more.

JBCP is your community resource, and reflects the needs, the outstanding resources, and caring people in our community. On the first Wednesday of each month there is a Blood Pressure Clinic, and at the same time, one of our local denturists, Chris Nordell offers his time for Denture Cleaning and Assessments. Weekly, we have a very popular Reiki Program with Jack Hyatt, providing half hour relaxing sessions. These popular sessions need to be booked ahead of time. You will also need to book ahead to confirm eligibility and registration for our Foot Clinic that offers practical care of the feet, including foot assessment, toenail cutting, foot bath and callus/corn removal.

And there is more yet! Why don't you check out our website at or come in and experience it for yourself and find out how much more there is!