Start or join activities in your building
Join a group, meet neighbours or start something new where you live.
On this page:
- Check if your building has a program
- What is a NORC community
- Get neighbours involved
- Build a small team
- Ask your community
- Get support from the city
- Find more resources
Check if your building has a program
Some buildings and neighbourhoods in Waterloo already have activities for older adults.
Use the the Check for activities in your building page to find out:
- if your building has been identified as a NORC (has many older adult residents)
- if activities or programs are already available
If your building has been identified as a NORC and has activities and support, email neighbourhoods@waterloo.ca. They can help connect you with the right person.
What is a NORC community
A NORC community forms naturally when many older adults live in the same building or neighbourhood.
In some of these communities, residents work with the city to organize activities and build connections.
Learn more on the learn about NORC communities page.
Start with a simple activity
Activities depend on what residents want in their community. You do not need a formal plan to get started.
Many groups begin with:
- coffee meetups
- walking groups
- book clubs
- movie nights
- wellness or fitness classes
Start with one idea and build from there.
For step-by-step instructions to start activities in your building, use the Start a NORC guide.
Download the Start a NORC program (PDF)
Get neighbours involved
Talk to neighbours and find out what people are interested in.
Get started by:
- speaking with people in your building
- posting a notice in a common area
- asking your building manager to help share information
- inviting neighbours to a casual meetup or coffee chat
You only need a small group to begin.
Build a small team
A NORC team is a small group of neighbours who work together. It's important not do it alone.
To build your team:
- aim for a small group to start
- invite neighbours who are interested
- include people with different skills and backgrounds
- choose people who can share tasks and keep things moving
Visit the Build a NORC team page for more information.
Ask your community
Ask your neighbours to share their experiences, needs and ideas. This helps you understand what people want and need as they get older and build a shared vision for your community.
Ask about:
- what people want and need – are there common ideas or challenges?
- skills and talents – what your neighbours can offer
- helpers and volunteers – who can give their time, share skills or help with activities
To ask your community, consider hosting a community meeting or handing out a survey.
Get support from the city
If you have questions or want help getting started, contact the neighbourhoods team.
They can help you:
- connect with neighbours
- plan activities
- find resources
- grow activities over time
Email neighbourhoods@waterloo.ca.
Find more resources
Explore these resources to help you get started:
- visit the Become a NORC ambassador page – take on a lead role in your building
- download the Creating connections in multi-unit buildings guide (PDF) – find tips for meeting neighbours
- visit the Plan a neighbourhood event page – find ideas and steps to organize a larger activity
- read the UHN Do-It-Yourself guide - find information and ideas to help start a NORC community
