In the heart of Toronto’s Parkdale community, where many seniors—especially newcomers—find themselves on the wrong side of the digital divide, a new story began to unfold in the autumn of 2024. For many, the online world felt like a source of anxiety—a place of potential scams and confusing interfaces that stood in the way of connecting with family or accessing vital services. This digital silence is a quiet form of isolation, a challenge the Seniors Online and Ready (SOAR) program was created to overcome.
SOAR wasn’t just another class; it was a bridge. Each week, the Parkdale Information Center buzzed with a unique energy as seniors were paired with tech-savvy youth volunteers. Here, generations connected. Patience and curiosity filled the room as young mentors guided their new friends through the essentials of modern life—from the simple joy of a video call with grandchildren overseas to the quiet confidence of managing their banking securely online.
Through seven carefully designed workshops, the seniors tackled their fears one by one. They learned to spot a phishing email, to manage their health appointments online, and even to explore the creative possibilities of AI with tools like Canva and ChatGPT. The transformation was visible. Hesitation gave way to confidence. Isolation was replaced by connection and a renewed sense of independence. The program didn’t just teach technology; it fostered friendships, broke down barriers, and proved that in a truly connected community, everyone has something to learn and something to teach.
Seniors Online and Ready
This initiative stands at the intersection of equity, empowerment, and digital inclusion. By creating a safe learning space rooted in trust and mutual respect, the program gave participants the opportunity to shape their own digital journeys. It reminded us that inclusion means more than access—it means meaningful participation.
🎥 Watch the video below to see highlights from the workshops, hear directly from participants, and witness the impact of SOAR in action.