Support Network of Whistler (SNOW) Program: Skill Building & Action Steps

A life transition comes at all ages, stages and may be due to a change of family structure, health concern and loss of a spouse or a close friend. One of the most common life changes for seniors is the transition from the workforce. The idea of retirement can come with many expectations. Unfortunately, not everyone’s dream of retirement will develop into fruition and it comes in all shapes and forms. Some people slowly decrease their work commitments while others leave their job and never look back.

I’ve heard individuals speak of their loss of identity when they retire from the workforce. Retirement is a time of personal reflection and creating new goals for the next chapter in your life. You are never too old to set new intentions for yourself. Learning a new skill such as painting, a language, or working a part-time job are all activities that seniors often explore. Truly understanding what you want out of ‘the next chapter’ in your life is easier said than done.  Once you set a goal what steps do you take to accomplish it?   Who can help you move forward?  There are many resources within our community that are often overlooked our under used if you are not aware of them.  Whistler Community Services Society(WCSS)  offers  a program called Support Network of Whistler(SNOW). It runs twice per year and the next session will begin on Tuesday April 7^th and meets weekly until June 8^th.  Over the 8 week session, the program facilitator, Christine Suter will focus on a variety of topics related to your personal wellness and will provide tools to accomplish your goals.  

Once your personal goals have been identified and you are aware of the community resources to assist you, the next step is bringing it all together and making it a reality. This may take time, an adjustment to your daily routine and also striving to find balance between “work and play”. It may also require an adjustment to your finances, daily spending and budgeting. The SNOW program incorporates a session with a financial advisor who will help provide some clarity and realistic tools to manage and plan for your future.

Each participant, in this program, is on their own personal journey of development, planning and change. The weekly group atmosphere hopes to provide a social element which can also create a support network and group of people who can encourage your growth and progression.  The SNOW program still has some limited availability and pre-registration is required. For more information and enrollment please call the WCSS office at 604-932-0113.