OUR HISTORY

The Edmonton Aboriginal Seniors Centre is a gathering place for Edmonton Aboriginal Elders and seniors that welcomes everyone. We provide activities, programs, referrals, and outreach services desired by membership.

The Edmonton Aboriginal Seniors Centre (EASC) is the result of the determination of a few women to address the many needs of Aboriginal people living in the City of Edmonton. It was first established as the Metis Women's Council of Edmonton on October 20, 1986. Two staff embraced their unique and holistic vision of bringing wellness and a sense of community among the Aboriginal seniors in Edmonton.

The programs stabled were the Urban Native Housing Registry, the Drop-in Centre and the Outreach Program. They were designed to enhance the physical, spiritual, intellectual and social well-being of Edmonton Aboriginal seniors. The participants of these programs received assistance with finding affordable housing, access to a social centre where they could hold pot-luck dinners, do crafts and converse in their own language. They were also provided help in accessing services and in dealing with the urban environment, particularly those who were
isolated in their own homes or in the hospitals. With the acquisition of a van in 1992, members were able to attend more events at the Centre and to go on spiritual and cultural outings.

On July 19, 1994, the agency changed its name to Native Senior's Centre and moved from their location beside the Coliseum to its present location on 134 Avenue. As the membership grew so did the programs and services. A monthly Cree Mass was started; a food co-op program, a communal garden and a collective kitchen began and a craft workshop formed from which finished goods were sold as a means of fundraising.

On March 28, 2012 the Native Senior's Centre changed its name to Edmonton Aboriginal Seniors Centre. The Board of Directors are comprised of members of the Centre and are responsible for Policies and Procedures and Bylaws.

Members of the Board also sit on various committees designed to oversee and support the needs of its members.
While the Centre has maintained some of its earlier programs and services, it has expanded to include new ones and throughout its existence, EASC has undergone many significant changes and we continue to grow and embrace new and innovative initiatives.