Our Seniors, Our Future (SOFU) Initiative
Background
Our community faces an increasingly ageing population that urgently requires culturally appropriate mental health outreach and support services. Recognising these critical needs, the Centre for Migrant and Refugee Health (CMRH), in collaboration with ageing agencies and communities in Victoria, Australia, has developed the “Our Seniors, Our Future” initiative. Using a robust community development model, this program supports multicultural seniors through tailored mental health outreach, counselling, social engagement, and educational activities. The initiative also includes the African Seniors Peer Group, established in partnership with the Sudanese Mothers Coalition in Victoria, designed to address the unique cultural and social needs of African seniors.
Key Aspects of the Program
- Culturally appropriate mental health outreach services
- Specialized counselling referrals
- Social outings and educational excursions exploring Victorian and Australian history
- Interactive sessions in music, dance, and traditional African arts and crafts
- Volunteer and professional-led mental health education and management