I’ve been involved with a really rewarding and impactful project at Ontario Tech, which has helped me find purpose, belonging, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in our community.

I want to share my story in the hopes that you, too will be inspired to connect with one of the many great communities on campus—ones that provide social connection, an opportunity to do something positive and uplifts those around you.

Making a difference

For the past 2 years, I’ve been a member of the Students Recognizing Residents club through the Ontario Tech Student Union because of my heartfelt interactions with the seniors in my retirement home job.

Students Recognizing Residents is a club dedicated to enriching the lives of our elderly community. We achieve this by visiting retirement homes and organizing events that bring comfort, joy, and companionship.

We help foster connections between the Ontario Tech community and seniors by organizing events, sharing our time, giving gifts, and engaging campaigns like our recent letter-writing initiative.

As club President, I feel a deep sense of fulfillment when I see my fellow Ridgebacks coming together to work on ways to engage with and bring smiles to our senior citizens.

Whether it’s spending time at the center doing arts and crafts or just lending an ear to chat with some seniors, watching students and seniors bond reminds me of the ‘why’ behind our club, which is to foster meaningful connections.

Making an impact all year round

Looking back at 2024, we started the year with the Let’s Talk Kind Words event, which aimed at providing seniors with practical and meaningful gifts that enhance their daily lives. We collaborated with the Stitching Nook Club to crochet two handmade support pillows. With donations from the Faculty of Social Science and Humanities and the Faculty of Science, we purchased store-bought seat cushions and wheelchair bags for the seniors at Livita Retirement Home.

The residents were incredibly grateful when they received these gifts; one was so touched that he teared up. The happiness and appreciation we noticed encouraged us to continue the initiative during our fall 2024 events, where we distributed touch lamps and mugs.

To round out the year, our outstanding Ontario Tech students dedicated a Saturday to join us for the SRR Arts and Crafts Afternoon we held in December. Together, we made holiday cards and ornaments while having great conversations.

Every time the club visits a seniors center, we experience a sense of joy that is difficult to describe. Giving a small gift or just lending an ear to listen, reminds us of how vital and impactful small acts of kindness can be.

Connecting students with seniors

Another initiative we introduced to connect with the elders in our community was delivering handwritten letters written by Ontario Tech students. We set up a booth at the SHA Building to encourage participation and partnered with the Filipino Student Association to spread awareness. These heartfelt letters, which have become a staple at each event, truly brighten the seniors’ days and are always deeply appreciated.

Join Us!

We already have a few events planned for the winter semester, with more in the works. If you’re interested or would like more info, please contact us at studentsrecognizingresidents@gmail.com or find us on the web here or on Instagram @studentsrecognizingresidents.

Connecting with seniors is a priceless joy and an invaluable experience. This club thrives because of our commitment to making an impact through heartfelt activities.

Be part of a community that aims to improve the world, one moment at a time!

Looking forward to hearing from you!

~ Leila Martinez