Dragon Guardians: Empowering Seniors Through Culture, Wellness, and Safety

The Dragon Guardians project addresses the growing need for seniors to remain socially engaged, physically active, and confident in protecting themselves from crime and violence. Many seniors face isolation, limited access to culturally relevant activities, and a lack of awareness of personal and community safety strategies. This initiative will create a safe, engaging, and educational space where seniors can connect, learn, and strengthen both mind and body.

The program combines culturally enriching workshops with practical safety education. Activities will include Tai Chi, singing, dragon dance, and confidence-building workshops. These experiences aim to improve seniors’ physical health, mental well-being, and personal safety knowledge, fostering a sense of empowerment and community resilience.

The target group is seniors aged 60 and above, particularly those who are socially isolated or from vulnerable groups, including newcomers, seniors with mobility or health challenges, and members of minority communities. By partnering with seniors’ residences, local community organizations, and cultural groups across Calgary, the program will reach individuals who may not otherwise have access to culturally meaningful and safety-focused programming.

Dragon Guardians is a new initiative, expanding beyond existing language and cultural programs. Building on past successes such as Culture Month and intergenerational storytelling workshops, this program uniquely blends cultural engagement, wellness, and personal safety education into a sustained, impactful initiative.

Through Dragon Guardians, seniors will not only enjoy meaningful cultural activities but also gain vital tools to protect themselves and contribute to safer communities, strengthening the social fabric of Calgary.

The Dragon Guardians program will directly benefit seniors aged 60 and above in Calgary, particularly those who experience social isolation, face mobility or health challenges, are newcomers, or come from minority communities. Many seniors lack access to culturally relevant activities that also address personal safety, and this program offers a unique opportunity to meet those needs.

Participants will gain physical, mental, and emotional benefits through engaging activities and workshops. These activities will improve their well-being, foster confidence, and strengthen connections within the community.

Beyond individual benefits, the program will help build a safer and more inclusive Calgary by empowering seniors with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves and by promoting greater cultural engagement. Collaborating with seniors’ residences, cultural organizations, and community groups will ensure that the program reaches those who need it most, fostering stronger intergenerational and intercultural connections.

The Dragon Guardians program will thus benefit both the participants and the wider community by enhancing safety awareness, cultural exchange, and senior well-being in Calgary.