Belonging Older Adults
AGE GROUP | 55+
FREE TO PARTICIPATE
Year-round arts, movement, social activities, outings, and community gatherings for older adults
Belonging is Jamii’s free, year-round program for older adults 55+ in The Esplanade and surrounding downtown Toronto communities. Through arts workshops, movement, social gatherings, outings, and participant-led activities, Belonging creates regular opportunities to stay active, learn, meet neighbours, build friendships, and spend meaningful time together.
The program began in 2020 in response to the isolation older adults were experiencing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, it has grown into an active community shaped by the people who participate in it.
What happens at Belonging?
Belonging offers a changing calendar of activities throughout the year, including:
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Visual Arts Workshops led by professional artists working across different materials and techniques
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Movement Workshops with accessible options for different levels of mobility and experience
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Sing-Alongs for singing well-known songs together in a relaxed group setting
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Potlucks where participants can share food and spend time around the table
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Games Nights with board games, cards, conversation, and friendly competition
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Outings that give active Belonging participants opportunities to experience arts, culture, and the city together
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Programming Committee Meetings where participants can share ideas and help shape future Belonging activities
Most activities take place at The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, in downtown Toronto’s St. Lawrence neighbourhood. Programs change throughout the year, giving participants opportunities to try different activities while returning regularly to familiar people and spaces.
You do not need previous arts, movement, or music experience to participate. Belonging is designed so people can take part at a level that feels comfortable for them.
Belonging is shaped by its participants
The Belonging Programming Committee brings participants and Jamii team together to discuss program ideas, interests, feedback, and community needs.
Programming Committee meetings are open to any Belonging participant who would like to attend. Ideas raised through these conversations help Jamii plan activities that reflect the interests and experiences of the people taking part.
How to join Belonging - You only need to register once!
After registering for the Belonging Older Adults program, you can drop in to Visual Arts Workshops, Movement Workshops, Sing-Alongs, Potlucks, and Games Nights without completing a new registration for each one. For each outing program, a separate registration is required. Outings are reserved for participants who actively take part in other Belonging programs.
Registering also adds you to the Belonging email list so you can receive monthly updates when new workshops, gatherings, and activities are announced.
Already receiving Belonging updates by email? You are already registered and do not need to register again.
Support free community arts
Jamii keeps programs and events free so everyone can take part, without financial barriers. If you’re able, you can support our $15 for 15 Years campaign and help us reach $15,000 by December 15 for Jamii’s future programs at The Jamii Hub. Your donation moves the goal forward and is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donate here now.
Jamii's Belonging Older Adults programs are sponsored by Government of Canada, Canada Council for the Arts, Metcalf Foundation - Booster Fund, St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association, Rama Gaming House, and Charitable Gaming.
