Expand Wellness and Connection for Older Adults in Your Community

Oasis is a member-led program that empowers older adults to shape the activities, programs, and services they want in their own community. Designed to complement—not replace—existing programming, Oasis focuses on:

● Social connection

● Physical activity

● Healthy eating and nutrition

● Connecting residents with local services and resources

The program helps older adults build relationships, stay active, remain independent, and age in place.

Each Oasis community is supported by a part-time onsite Coordinator who works alongside residents to help bring their ideas to life. Oasis is member-driven, meaning residents decide what programs and activities are offered. There is typically no membership fee, although some activities may have a small cost.

We're Expanding! Could your community become the next Oasis site?

Thanks to generous grant funding, the Neighbourhood Associations of Medicine Hat & Area will be expanding Oasis to three communities in Medicine Hat.

Information Session

Wednesday, August 5 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Unison Veiner Centre

If your seniors' community is interested in becoming an Oasis site, we invite you to attend an information session to learn about:

● How the Oasis model works and its benefits

● What is involved in becoming an Oasis community

● The Expression of Interest process

● The supports available to participating communities

● Questions and discussion

Who Should Attend?

To be considered as a potential expansion site, leadership representative(s) from your community are required to RSVP and attend the information session.

Examples include:

● Board members

● Condo board executives

● Resident association leaders

● Committee chairs

● Building management (where applicable)

Examples of Oasis activities can include:

Nutrition: Potlucks, Community Kitchens, Snack Socials, Community Gardens and Food Growing, Skill-Building Workshops (like cooking for one or two, batch cooking and freezer meals), Food Buying Clubs, etc.

Social: Games, Art Activities, Hobbies & Interest Groups, Volunteering, Excursions, Information Sessions and Guest Speakers, etc.

Physical Activity: Walking Groups, Fitness Classes, Strength & Resistance Training, Balance and Fall Prevention, Recreation and Movement Activities (like line dancing), Outdoor Activities, etc.

...And Much More!

To RSVP, learn more about the information session, or about Oasis in your community, contact:

Shantel Ottenbreit, Community Resource Worker

shaott@medicinehat.ca, 403-529-8368

Neighbourhood Associations of Medicine Hat and Area has partnered with Queen’s University and Healthy Aging Alberta to establish Oasis programs in Medicine Hat. Oasis is a program developed by older adults for older adults to support aging well in community. Oasis offers recreational and social programs in “Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities” (NORCs) where a large number of older adults live. For more information on the program check out: https://www.oasisagingwell.com/

Do you have a passion for engaging with older adults and strengthening communities? Are you someone who enjoys building relationships, bringing people together, and turning ideas into meaningful community initiatives? Are you a curious, creative, self-starter who thrives on collaboration and wants to be involved in a grassroots, national project supporting older adults to age-in-place?

We are looking for an enthusiastic community development professional to join our team. In this role, you will build connections with older adults, community organizations, volunteers, and partners; facilitate groups and community conversations; co-create and lead activities and programming; foster collaboration through communities of practice and local networks; and help strengthen community capacity to support healthy aging.

If you are energized by connecting people, developing partnerships, facilitating engagement, and helping communities create sustainable solutions together, we encourage you to apply.

Oasis Program Coordinator:

The Oasis Program Coordinator is responsible for collaborating with older adult residents to identify programming needs and preferences, co-designing, planning, and leading programming with residents, managing the Oasis programs operated in three local neighbourhoods, and completing reporting requirements. The Program Coordinator will be an active part of three local Oasis teams as well meeting monthly with the national and provincial community-of-practice. Together, the teams will provide quality, sustainable programming that meet the needs of seniors residing in these neighbourhoods. As the Oasis program is part of a Queen’s University research project, the Program Coordinator will also work with the Oasis Research Team to implement and evaluate an innovative senior-driven model of active age-in-place. The Oasis Program Coordinator will work within the guidelines, policies and mission of the organization and will be accountable and responsible for specific projects as assigned.

Key responsibilities include:

- Work with the Oasis members (older adults) and the leadership teams (local NORC board, committee, club, etc.) to develop, coordinate, and support a monthly calendar of senior-led wellness, social connection, and education programs.

- Work with Oasis members to ensure their active engagement with program development and decision-making.

- Organize events and book space as required for program activities

- Coordinate and maintain multiple stakeholder relationships (local, provincial and national).

- Facilitate outreach to residents to encourage participation in Oasis activities.

- Create and facilitate Oasis communications at each site (posters, flyers, event calendars, information of Oasis, community resources, etc.).

- Work within grant guidelines.

- Assist with recruitment, screening and support of program volunteers; including the supervision of students as required.

- Perform miscellaneous duties including ordering and maintaining program supplies and maintaining program equipment.

- Perform administrative duties including entering, maintaining and preparing a range of statistical elements, reports and monitoring of expenses as required.

- Ensure implementation of programs and activities to address the identified needs of Oasis members.

- Attend and participate in regular Community-of-Practice meetings.

- Undertake other duties as delegated in support of the Oasis project, programs and services.

Your fit:

-You see the bigger picture. You have a deep appreciation and respect for including the diverse populations that make up our community and an understanding of the issues facing older adults.

-You love working with people. You have a passion for working with older adults and you bring confidence, open-mindedness, empathy, enthusiasm, and creativity to your interactions. When conflict arises you approach it with care and diplomacy.

-You are multi-talented and a quick learner. As the only paid staff on site, you are comfortable working with minimal supervision.

-You get things done. You have a proven ability to plan, organize, and implement successful projects because of your strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.

-You are a natural leader. You have experience in community environments, including group facilitation, and community engagement with seniors.

-You are familiar with community resources relevant to seniors.

-You have experience working with older adults. Your education and training in community development, social work, recreation, health or health-related sciences, gerontology, occupational therapy, kinesiology, or related field is paired with your own life experiences that have broadened your understanding and enhanced your empathy for the human condition.

-You love working in dynamic environments and don’t mind flexing your hours occasionally to make things work.

-You are competent using technology (i.e., email, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Client Management software).

-You have sound administrative and reporting skills including use of MS Word, Excel, and Google docs.

-Valid First Aid training is considered an asset.

-Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Screening is required.

Job Details:

Compensation: $30.00–$40.00 per hour, commensurate with education, qualifications, and relevant experience.

Vacation: Paid statutory holidays and three weeks of paid vacation (15 days) over the 18-month funding term.

Position Type: Full-time (35 hours per week), contract position. This position is funded through March 31, 2028, with an anticipated start date of September 1, 2026. Continued employment beyond this date is contingent upon ongoing grant funding.

Location: This position is primarily remote and requires travel to Oasis site locations, as needed.

Application Process: To apply, please send a cover letter and resume by email to: mhneighbourhoods@gmail.com by August 15, 2026 at 5:00pm. The position will remain open until a suitable candidate can be found.

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada. We are committed to creating an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and encourage qualified candidates to apply regardless of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, marital status, family status, disability, genetic characteristics, or conviction for an offence for which a pardon has been granted.

Partner with Older Adults in Your Community

Oasis is a member-led program that empowers older adults to shape the activities, programs, and services they want in their own community. Designed to complement—not replace—existing programming, Oasis focuses on:

● Social connection

● Physical activity

● Healthy eating and nutrition

● Connecting residents with local services and resources

The program helps older adults build relationships, stay active, remain independent, and age in place.

Each Oasis site is supported by a part-time onsite Coordinator who works alongside residents to help bring their ideas to life. Oasis is member-driven, meaning residents decide what programs and activities are offered. There is typically no membership fee, although some activities may have a small cost.

Could Your Community Organization Work with a Local Oasis Site?

Thanks to generous grant funding, the Neighbourhood Associations of Medicine Hat & Area will be expanding Oasis to three communities in Medicine Hat.

Information Session for Potential Community Partners

Wednesday, August 5 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. Unison Veiner Centre

Examples of partnerships include:

- Presentations about services or information older adults need to know about (home care, fraud prevention)

- Tax clinics, or mobile health clinics

- Student placements or intergenerational learning opportunities

- Sports teams looking to provide community service to older adults in need of spring cleaning

- Existing groups interested in collaborating on programs related to nutrition, physical activity, and social activities

- Skill building opportunities

...And Much More!

To RSVP, learn more about the information session, or about Oasis in your community, contact:

Shantel Ottenbreit, Community Resource Worker

shaott@medicinehat.ca, 403-529-8368

Saturday January 31^st is National Hot Chocolate Day. We are encouraging neighbourhoods to host an event to celebrate this fun day – and spread warmth during this cold month. Please let us know if you are interested in hosting an event – as we’d be happy to promote and support your event. Also, remember that Microgrants are available to support these types of events (for more info or to apply check out: medicinehat.submit.com)

If you can’t host an event but still want to have a cup of hot chocolate to celebrate, watch for information about a community-wide event at Kin Coulee Toboggan Hill on Saturday afternoon (January 31 from 1:30-3:30).

Hello Neighbours!

Mark your calendars for Neighbour Day, on Saturday, October 4, 2025!

Good Neighbour Day is a chance to come together, connect, and celebrate the incredible people and places that make our neighbourhoods so special.

It’s all about building strong relationships, creating welcoming spaces, and showing that Medicine Hat is a city with a big heart!

Whether you’re planning something big or small, there are so many fun ways to get involved and make your neighbourhood shine.

Some ideas include:

• Neighbourhood Clean Ups – come together to clean up and beautify your neighbourhood spaces. Streets, parks, alleys, and green areas.
• Neighbourhood Walk – A neighbourhood walk is a great way to get outside, meet neighbours, and enjoy the community together! It’s a simple, healthy, and fun activity that brings people closer while exploring the places we call home. You can share your meeting point with your neighbours, pick a route, and enjoy your neighbourhood while you get your steps in.
• Neighbourhood BBQs or Picnics – hosting a neighbourhood BBQ or picnic is a fun way to bring the community together! Neighbours can enjoy delicious food, games, and great company in a relaxed outdoor setting. It’s the perfect chance to meet new people, catch up with friends, and celebrate the spirit of community. Bring your appetite and join the fun!
• Neighbourhood Window Walks - Be creative and decorate your windows with fun, themed displays for others to enjoy while walking through the neighbourhood. It’s a simple, family-friendly activity that spreads joy, sparks creativity, and makes our streets feel welcoming and festive.
• Neighbourhood Door Decorating Contest – Choose your theme, invite everyone to decorate their doors using that theme, and then stroll the neighbourhood to admire everyone’s designs. Vote on your favorite and host a get together to announce the winner. It’s a friendly competition that spreads joy, colour, and connection right on your doorstep.
• Show Random Acts of Neighbouring - Celebrate your neighbours or do something kind to show you care. Share your ideas using #GoodNeighbourDayMH
• Neighbourhood Art Gallery - Families can use their imaginations to create their own works of art, chalk drawings or yard sculptures in their yards, sidewalks and driveways for the neighbourhood to enjoy.
• Driveway Concerts – Turn your driveway into a stage and bring the sound of music to your street. Driveway concerts are a fun, family-friendly way to showcase local talent, connect with neighbours, and enjoy live music – right from your lawn chair. Not tickets, no travel – just good vibes and great tunes, right at home.
• Neighbourhood Yard Sale – Clear out the clutter, meet your neighbours, and find hidden gems at a community-wide garage sale. It’s a fun, sustainable way to give items a second life while turning your street into a lively, local marketplace.
• Start a Little Free Library – Calling all book lovers. Why not start a little free library, where neighbours can take a book, leave a book, and share the stories you love. Building and decorating your library could be a wonderfully creative neighbourhood activity. Once built, register your little free library at littlefreelibrary.org
• Street History Night – Individuals who have lived in the neighbourhood longest could host a walk and set up tables with old pictures and info about the neighbourhood (consider checking with our Esplanade Arts and Heritage Collections & Archives for more info)
• Plan a Neighbourhood Christmas Tree – This winter choose a tree in your neighbourhood, and encourage neighbours to bring items to decorate the tree so everyone can enjoy.
• Neighbourhood Book Club – Bring your community together through the love of reading! A neighbourhood book club is a fun, relaxed way to connect with others, spark great conversations, and discover new stories. Whether you’re a seasoned bookworm or just looking for a reason to read more, starting a book club is the perfect way to turn pages and build friendships.
• Host Mini Connections – Mini connections are simple, low-key gatherings that bring neighbours together -whether it’s a quick coffee chat, a sidewalk game, drinks on the driveway, or a front yard meet-and-greet. It’s all about creating space for friendly faces, meaningful conversations, and stronger community bonds. Just a few minutes can make lasting connections.
• Celebrate Diversity: Host a Neighbourhood Culture Night – Bring your community together through rich flavours, stories, and traditions of cultures from around the world! Culture Nights are a fun, welcoming way to share food, music, customs, and conversations – while learning more about your neighbours. Everyone’s heritage has a place at the table, so come curious and leave connected.
• Create a Neighbourhood Chalk Mural on your sidewalk – Bring your sidewalk to life and brighten everyone’s day with a collaborative chalk mural. Invite neighbours of all ages to add their creativity, share positive messages, or simply have fun with color. Turn your street into a shared canvas of community spirit.
• Host a Neighbourhood Play Time – This one is all about fun, movement, and community. Neighbourhood families, gather up some of your outdoor games, toys, chalk, and bubbles to share and play in a green space or park. Kids play and parents connect, making this activity a low-key, high-energy way to build relationships with your neighbours.
• Photography Scavenger Hunt – This activity is great for people of all ages, but especially teens. Capture unique images of your neighbourhood through a themed photo challenge, designed to test your creativity and build connection to your neighbourhood.

Whatever you decide to do – we’d love to hear about it! Tag us in you stories, photos and videos at #GoodNeighbourDayMH or share them on our Shape Your City Page (shapeyourcity.medicinehat.ca) under the "Stories" tab (https://shapeyourcity.medicinehat.ca/neighbourhood-associations?tool=story_telling_tool#tool_tab)

You can also Nominate a Good Neighbour by clicking: https://shapeyourcity.medicinehat.ca/embeds/projects/44598/survey-tools/56224

Finally, don't forget that if you'd like to apply for a small grant to support your neighbourhood connecting idea, you can apply for a City of Medicine Hat Microgrant here, https://www.medicinehat.ca/grants

Interested in celebrating Earth Day and meeting others in your neighbourhood?? Join us at one of our Clean-Up and Connection litter pick up events. See the poster for more details!

Neighbourhood Association Information Night

Thinking about starting or joining a Neighbourhood Association in your area?

Join us on February 25 at the Esplanade in the Studio Theatre at 6:30 p.m. for a brief update on what has been happening with Neighbourhood Associations in our community and a chance to connect with others who are interested in starting or growing neighbourhood associations.

It will provide an opportunity to think about what events you might like to see in your neighbourhood and plan for some next steps, all with the help of some wonderful mentors and experienced individuals who can help support you through the process.

There is no cost to this event. It will be a relaxed evening about connecting and building ideas about how to make our neighbourhoods even stronger and more vibrant than they already are. We hope you’ll consider joining us!

You might be wondering, what's the difference between Neighbourhood Associations and microgrants?

Neighborhood Associations are groups of residents who regularly plan and promote activities to enhance community connections and well-being. Microgrants, on the other hand, can be a great starting point for forming these associations, allowing you to test the waters and see if there's interest in ongoing connection.

This heat map shows where neighbourhood connection took place this year via the microgrant program!

In 2024 neighbourhood microgrants received 53 applications. 32 were approved (21 were declined because they were not neighbourhood-specific projects). The City allocated $12,000 to these events.

These events brought together 1,390 participants and 155 volunteers, who contributed 450 hours of their time.

Neighbourhoods hosted a variety of events including block parties, community beautification gatherings, workshops, BBQs, concerts, and cultural celebrations. These events helped residents meet new neighbours and strengthen community bonds.

Neighbourhood Associations of Medicine Hat and Area (NA) had around 100 people participate in their launch events. Eight walks occurred throughout the city.

The Ross Glen walk stopped by local artist, Robert Weismann’s home. His stained glass was on display along with a restored window from St. Thereasa’s Academy (which was located in Crescent Heights from 1915-1973). Robert and another walk attendee over their interest in historic buildings.

Participants who completed the survey all agreed that walking with neighbours helped them to know more about their community and people in it, meet new people, feel more connected, and would attend a similar walk in the future.

Neighbourhood Associations is planning an educational evening to learn more about how to start one or connect with others interested in community building. If you are living in Ross Glen, Riverside, or Kensington and want to join a Neighbourhood Association, email Shantel at shaott@medicinehat.ca to be connected to things starting in your area.

Community Conversation on Neighbourhood AssociationsCheck out this Community Conversation that one of our members, Michelle, did with Rogers' Ian Parkinson.