A new organization advocating for seniors issues in Humboldt is embarking on a fact finding mission to support Humboldt as an age friendly city. The Humboldt Age Friendly Committee has launched a survey to the community’s seniors to ask for opinions and outlooks on issues such as local infrastructure, communications, community supports, amenities, and housing. 

The group is seeking to grow its numbers beyond the four current members. Roger Nordick is one of the four members who share a common interest in improving the lives of seniors.

The group is part of the Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism, a non-profit umbrella organization with a mission of supporting local efforts to contribute to the quality of life for seniors.

Initially, the group was spurred by Humboldt City Planner, Frank Carpentieri, who expressed an interest in establishing a group such as the Humboldt Age Friendly Committee. Nordick is a recent addition to the group which has been active for about six months. 

“The committee is in its infancy,” states Nordick, “and we are wishing to begin a good conversation with seniors in Humboldt with the intent to seek opportunities and partnerships that are going to improve the lives of senior citizens.”

It’s a great fit for Nordick who explains that one of his key motivations in running for city council was to be a voice for the interests of seniors. The committee is tailor made to facilitate connections between the seniors community and city council. 

In addition to the aforementioned focuses, Nordick notes that one of the facets of the survey is to inquire about social inclusion.

“We want to be an inclusive city, and that is certainly part of my desire as a councillor is to be inclusive. There are other things as well such as the availability and accessibility of businesses in the community. Employment opportunities may also be something we are looking for.”

With many aspects of community life impacting seniors, the committee is also looking to prioritize its actions as it moves forward. Determining what is most important and which areas demand immediate attention is the first step, noted Nordick. 

The surveys have been distributed to seniors’ living complexes in Humboldt. For those individuals who wish to fill out a survey but have not received one, they are available at the front desk of Humboldt City Hall by request. The surveys contain information about joining the Humboldt Age Friendly Committee. Completed surveys can be returned to City Hall and simply dropped in the mail slot by September 30.