We all know that our seniors have a wealth of talent, experience and goodwill that, when shared with others, can help build the foundation for vibrant and inclusive communities. It was with this in mind that the Government of Canada launched the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP).

 The program has evolved considerably since 2004. It now includes three funding streams - Community Participation and Leadership, Capital Assistance and Elder Abuse Awareness. Projects that are funded through NHSP not only support a wide range of community-based projects right across Canada, but also helps to ensure that our seniors are actively contributing to and benefiting from their communities.

 The Government of Canada regularly issues NHSP calls for proposals, inviting a wide variety of interested organizations to submit their project ideas. We are excited to announce that on March 1st the call for proposals under the Community Participation and Leadership stream opened to all of Canada except Quebec until April 16, 2010. In Quebec, the governments of Canada and Quebec work together on the New Horizons for Seniors Program.  As a result, the Community Participation and Leadership, and Capital Assistance streams will be launched simultaneously on May 3, 2010 in Quebec.  

 We are committed to helping Canadian seniors enjoy the best quality of life possible, and the NHSP is one more way in which we are delivering on that promise. Whether it is raising awareness of elder abuse, building connections between youth and seniors or transferring traditional knowledge and skills to others, the NHSP puts seniors first so that they can participate in opportunities that benefit their communities.

For more information on the New Horizons for Seniors Program and this call for proposals, please visit www.hrsdc.gc.ca/seniors.