Promoting the Voice of Lived Experience 
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The GRCOA would like to express our appreciation to Ellysia Devries and her wonderful team of RBC volunteers for their support of the GRCOA Volunteer Luncheon on April 21. Their efforts made a meaningful difference in the success of the event.![]()
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From set-up to decorating and tear-down, everything was handled seamlessly, making the luncheon a lovely and memorable experience for our volunteers.![]()
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Thank you RBC!
The Grand River Council on Aging is grateful when families or friends choose to honour their loved one by designating memorial gifts to support their programs and activities that engage, educate, and connect seniors in Brantford, Brant County and Six Nations.![]()
Go to grcoa.ca/ to direct your memorial gift to the specific GRCOA program or resource that is meaningful to you.![]()
For more information, please contact us at Admin@grcoa.ca or call 519 754-0777 ext. 439![]()
#grateful
GRCOA Receives A City of Brantford Community Grant
Recently, the Grand River Council on Aging received $7,625 from the City of Brantford’s Community Grants Program.
We, the Grand River Council on Aging (GRCOA), would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the City of Brantford for this generous grant in support of our operating expenses. This investment in our organization helps ensure that we can continue our work to support older adults across the community.
This funding strengthens our capacity to deliver programs, resources, and initiatives that promote healthy aging, social connection, and age-friendly communities. With this support, GRCOA can continue to advocate for older adults and provide meaningful opportunities that help people remain active, engaged, and supported as they age.
Celebrating Volunteer Appreciation Week, April 19 to 25 
Volunteer Week 2026 is a time to recognize and celebrate the incredible individuals who give their time, energy, and compassion to strengthen our communities. This year’s theme, “Igniting Volunteerism,” highlights how every act of volunteering—whether a small spark or a steady flame—contributes to a larger, positive impact in our communities. This ability to create meaningful connections and lasting change is something we see every day at the Grand River Council on Aging (GRCOA).
Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. From supporting age-friendly initiatives to contributing their voices to community planning, they help ensure that older adults across the region are respected, included, and empowered. Their dedication brings ideas to life, strengthens partnerships, and helps build a community where everyone can age well.
During Volunteer Week, GRCOA also takes time to celebrate our volunteers through our Annual Volunteer Appreciation Event, held on Tuesday, April 21 at the Brantford and District Labour Centre. This gathering is an opportunity to recognize their contributions, share stories of impact, and express our sincere gratitude for the difference they make.
Special thanks go to Seasons Retirement Community for providing lunch, Brantford Blooms Florist for the centrepieces, and Whistling Gardens for donating the draw prize. We also extend our appreciation to the RBC volunteers who generously gave their time to decorate and set up the room, take photos, serve the meal, and assist with cleanup.
GRCOA volunteers are more than supporters—they are leaders, advocates, and changemakers. Their commitment continues to shape a more inclusive and age-friendly community for all.
What’s New!
The Community at Home workshop series is designed by volunteers to encourage socialization, participation, and community connections, while creating awareness about topics and issues of interest.
Older Adults and Mental Wellness 
The Grand River Council on Aging invites you to join Lill Petrella, Mental Health Team lead at the Canadian Mental Health Association to learn how older adults can boost their mental health through various strategies, including maintaining social connections, engaging in regular physical activity, and seeking professional help when needed.
Wednesday, May 6 from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.
To register for this virtual workshop, please email admin@grcoa.ca or call 519 754-0777 ext. 439
Enjoy past recorded workshops when you CLICK HERE
Celebrate World Chocolate Day with an Indulgent Experience in Support of the GRCOA
Chocolate lovers are invited to celebrate World Chocolate Day on July 7 with a delicious and meaningful experience at Le Chocolat du Savoie. This special event offers guests the chance to indulge in handcrafted treats while supporting the important work of the Grand River Council on Aging (GRCOA).
Observed annually on July 7, World Chocolate Day is a global celebration of one of the world’s most beloved treats. This year, Le Chocolat du Savoie is marking the occasion by hosting a unique chocolate tasting experience featuring a wide selection of Belgian chocolate made on site using premium couverture chocolate.
Those looking for a thoughtful and unique Mother’s Day gift can purchase tickets now for this one-of-a-kind event. Guests are encouraged to bring their mothers and enjoy a memorable outing together.
Owner Annette Savoie, an enthusiastic chocolatier, is passionate about helping customers discover new and exciting chocolate flavours and experiences. Her handcrafted creations highlight both traditional favourites and innovative combinations designed to delight every palate.
The event will take place at Le Chocolat du Savoie, located at 270 King George Road in Brantford, with drop-in times available between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Only 100 tickets are available, and they can be purchased in advance at the Le Chocolat location for $15 each.
Attendees will enjoy a variety of chocolate-inspired treats, including refreshing chocolate lemonade, an interactive Chocolate Treasure Chest experience where guests pull a ribbon to reveal a surprise treat, enter to win gift basket and more delicious samples!
Each visit concludes with a customized box of chocolates featuring four hand-selected flavours. Guests can choose from a range of options, including favourites such as chocolate butter rum caramel barrel and coffee infused creations.
Proceeds from ticket sales will support the Grand River Council on Aging, a local organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older adults by promoting social participation, good health, and security as they age.
“This event is a wonderful opportunity to bring the community together for a fun and flavourful experience while supporting a meaningful cause,” said Lucy Macro, Executive Director of the GRCOA
Community members are encouraged to purchase tickets early, as availability is limited.
For more information, please visit Le Chocolat du Savoie or contact the Grand River Council on Aging at admin@grcoa.ca.