History
The 411 Seniors Centre Society, established in 1977, has been a cornerstone in Vancouver’s seniors’ community They are dedicated to enhancing the lives of older adults. Over the decades, 411 has evolved, adapting to the changing needs of its members while maintaining a steadfast commitment to advocacy, support, and community building. They offer essential services tailored to vulnerable seniors, including Information and Referral (called I+R), Digital Literacy, Emergency Response and Preparedness a variety of engaging recreational and social activities.
The I+R services, is their flagship program, and the cornerstone of 411’s efforts. Their dedicated team of volunteers, many of which are retired school teachers, healthcare workers and postal workers, assist vulnerable seniors with applying for their benefits; including CPP, OAS, GIS, Dental Care plan and income tax preparation. Their team breaks down barriers helping vulnerable seniors with complex issues many of these cases come from, of all places, Service Canada. Currently, 411 is in the middle of their annual tax clinic which operates one of the provinces’ largest free tax clinics for older adults and persons with disabilities – as you know if seniors don’t get their taxes filed, they don’t get their benefits. 411 is providing to Seniors what can best be described as Essential Services.
In 1977, the Centre opened its doors, at 411 Dunsmuir Street, quickly becoming an inclusive, versatile, and dynamic drop-in space for older adults. It provided tools, services, programs, and activities designed to empower low-income seniors to live independently and thrive within the community.
For the first 35 years, the Centre was located in downtown Vancouver. This location became a beloved gathering spot, fostering a strong sense of community among older adults from all over the Lower Mainland. The Centre offered year-round programs and workshops that facilitated new friendships and skill development, contributing to improved health and well-being.
Transition Years
In the early 2000s, the Centre faced the challenge of relocating due to ongoing building maintenance issues. This move led to a period of transition, during which the Centre operated temporarily on the 7th floor of 333 Terminal Avenue. Despite space limitations, the Centre remained vibrant, continuing to offer advocacy, education, and social programs. Through this transition period 411 continued to operate its I&R Services and the Tax Clinic.
Adapting During the COVID-19 Pandemic (2020):
The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges. Prioritizing the health and safety of its members, the Centre swiftly adapted by moving a majority of its programming online. Wellness calls were instituted, and in-person services resumed when safe, addressing the growing need for digital and social support during these trying times.
New Beginnings in on Fraser Street
In Spring 2023, the Centre embarked on a new chapter by relocating to a vibrant neighborhood at Fraser and 19th Avenue. This move was more than a change of address; it represented an opportunity for strengthening and renewal. The Centre welcomed both old and new members, re-establishing previous programs and launching new ones, all aimed at building on its rich history as a dynamic, community-oriented hub for older adults.
Currently at 411…
· Runs programming six days a week, providing social and recreational programs to over 400 unique individual seniors per week
· The I&R services and the Tax Clinic serve over 3,000 people per year
· The organization engages over 400 volunteers per year totaling over 10,000 hours
· The Kitchen at 411 will cook over 5,000 subsidized meals this year
· Currently the Centre has over 1,000 Active Members
· New programs include a Free Legal Clinic, Specialized Health Services and Renter Services
Notable Contributions to the Community:
In summary, Seniors Centres create a positive economic impact by reducing healthcare costs, supporting independent living, fostering social connections, and enhancing local economies. They act as a preventive measure that benefits both individuals and society, making them a wise investment in the aging population.
Beyond its “essential services”, the 411 Seniors Centre Society has been instrumental in initiating and supporting multicultural and LGBTQ+ programming for older adults in Vancouver Kensington. Their efforts in these areas have fostered good health and social diversity within the senior’s community.
The Centre’s longstanding presence and adaptability underscore its pivotal role in Vancouver’s social fabric, continually striving to meet the evolving needs of older adults and reinforcing its commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive environment for all. Opening 411 Senior Centre has been a transformative influence on seniors and their families in the Vancouver area.
Features
The new building includes:
♦ Flexible space for events, celebrations, performances and town-hall meetings
♦ Private rooms for health consultations
♦ Kitchen/café, possibly with a nonprofit partner
♦ Mezzanine for 411 administration
Most of 411 programming occurs at the new building’s Drop-In Centre, the physical place where seniors help seniors and “someone to talk to” is always found.
The Drop-In Centre includes:
♥ Free computers, WiFi and telephones
♥ Educational workshops and seminars
♥ Recreational workshops
♥ Arts/cultural events and celebrations
♥ Fitness programs
♥ Food pantry
Facility use:
411 Seniors’ members will have the opportunity to rent the centre facilities for special occasions – birthdays, dancing and get-togethers. More details will be provided in early 2024.
Seniors Co-op Housing
We are pleased that the new building is co-located with 58 units of senior co-op housing operated by the Community Land Trust. This creates the area’s first model of integrating senior-focused services, facilities and housing to reduce isolation, develop connections and build community among residents, 411 members and visitors.
For information on the co-op housing, please contact Community Land Trust by phone at 604-879-5111 or by email at info@cltrust.ca or in-person at 220-1651 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC V5L 3Y3.
Visit the Community Land Trust Fraser Street Seniors Co-op website HERE.
Naming Opportunities
To recognize the generosity of our community of donors, our Centre includes spaces available for recognition of your family or to honour a loved one, business or group.
Spaces in our new home, such as our fully accessible Welcoming Lobby, hosts our reception area and seating pods to visit with friends. With a double-height ceiling, this entry area is acoustically dampened so conversation is prioritized. A First Nations Art Installment is also a prominent fixture in the space as we collectively work towards reconciliation. This space and many others throughout the building are available for naming via a donation. For more information, pease contact executivedirector@411seniors.org.
