Our Seniors Our future

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Our Seniors Our future

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

Expectations

The program aims to:

Enhance the mental health and overall wellbeing of senior community members.
Facilitate social connections to reduce isolation and loneliness.
Provide culturally relevant education and engagement opportunities.
Strengthen seniors’ connections to broader Australian society through interactive activities.
Improve access to mental health services through referrals and specialized counselling.

Impact

This initiative is designed to:

Improve mental health outcomes for multicultural seniors.
Foster a supportive community network among seniors.
Enhance knowledge and understanding of Australian history, culture, and traditions.
Revitalize traditional African arts and crafts, creating opportunities for intergenerational learning and cultural exchange.
Increase community awareness and responsiveness to the mental health needs of seniors.

Target Audience

Seniors from multicultural communities, with a particular focus on the African community.
Caregivers and family members supporting seniors.
Volunteers and healthcare professionals interested in seniors’ mental health.

How Do I Get Involved?

Participants, volunteers, and professionals interested in contributing to “Our Seniors, Our Future” can:

Join as volunteers to support program activities and outings.
Contribute professional skills in mental health counselling and outreach.
Participate in organizing educational workshops and cultural activities.
Partner with the CMRH to enhance program resources and reach.

Contact Information

For further details and involvement opportunities, please reach out to:

Email: info@cmrh.org.au
Phone: +61 433 443 791

Centre for Migrant and Refugee Health

We are here to help you!

Our services range from onsite, referral, and outreach (home-based) programs. We provide culturally safe, appropriate interventions and mental healthcare-specific services. In addition, the centre supports research and advocate for policies that eliminate systemic inequities and inequalities in accessing mental health and healthcare services.