Midhurst/August 27, 2025 – The County of Simcoe is pleased to introduce the Resident Ambassador Program, a new initiative designed to build stronger community ties and enhance overall well-being for the residents that call our Seniors Services locations at Simcoe Village, Georgian Village, and Sunset Village home.
This program is made possible thanks to $24,410 in one-time funding from the Ontario Government – Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility, through the Seniors Community Grant Program, which helps local not-for-profit community groups and organizations deliver projects, supports and resources that help older adults (aged 55+).
Inspired by residents who have long dedicated their time and talents to support activities in their Villages, the Resident Ambassador Program offers a formal way for seniors to share their experience, welcome new residents, and lead programs that reflect their interests.
Residents will play a key role in shaping the program, offering thoughtful ideas that touch on intellectual, social, physical, and emotional well-being. At their recommendation, ambassadors will help organize events, greet visitors, start clubs, host art and woodworking sessions, and build phone networks to keep people connected. Connecting them to their interests and sharing their experience and talents with their neighbours.
Quotes:
“The Seniors Community Grant Program is helping protect the well-being of seniors by providing opportunities to stay active, connected and engaged. We are honoured to support the County of Simcoe’s Resident Ambassador Program which will engage residents and ambassadors alike and have a positive impact on the atmosphere of the homes.” – Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility
“Connection is an important part of our lives, even more so as we age. The Resident Ambassador Program is a great example of how community can be fostered and grown within these Villages, and provides a meaningful impact on the lives of all who live there. Ensuring seniors have the tools they need to shape this program is key to its success, and I am thrilled the government is able to provide the necessary funding. I look forward to seeing the impacts of this program on both the Villages and the broader senior’s community.” – Doug Downey, MPP for Barrie – Springwater – Oro-Medonte
“Empowering residents to take on leadership roles within their Villages will help to foster a strong sense of belonging, purpose, and pride, benefiting both Ambassadors and the wider resident community. We’re grateful to the province for supporting our efforts to create meaningful opportunities that empower residents to stay active, engaged, and connected.” – Warden Basil Clarke
For more information on the County of Simcoe’s Seniors Services programs, visit simcoe.ca/seniors.
About County of Simcoe
County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.
