Join us for the first in our series of Virtual Training Days designed to support the recommended Core Competencies in the Shelter Standards.
We are hosting a 2 Day event with presentations from organizations that will help you better support older adults in your communities. These sessions are planned in partnership with the Shelter Standards program at NLHC, designed to compliment the recommended core competencies, and were based on feedback from shelter operators, managers and workers, along with various frontline and support roles education needs.
Each session is independent of each other – meaning you can sign up for all of them or individual ones that you would like to take in! Please click on each sessions link to register for that specific session.
When: Wednesday, May 13th 9:00am – 4:00pm, Thursday, May 14th 9:00am – 4:00pm
Where: Microsoft Teams Webinars (see each session for individual registration links)
If you have any questions please reach out to Rebecca Sacrey – rksacrey@nlhc.nl.ca or Samantha Penney – outreachcoordinator@nlhhn.org.
We look forward to helping develop your knowledge and better support your day to day work!
Wednesday, May 13th, 2026
9:00am – 10:00am
Introduction to SeniorsNL
In this session, you will learn about SeniorsNL, who they are, what they do, and how they help seniors and those who support them right across Newfoundland and Labrador
Presented by: Catherine Connolly, Outreach Coordinator – SeniorsNL
Register Here: Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams
10:30am – 12:00pm
Elder Abuse
In this session, you will learn about the different types of abuse, some of the warning signs and how to report abuse.
Presented by: Mary Ennis, Coordinator – NL Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse
Register Here: Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams
12:15pm – 12:45
Lunch and Learn: A Third Space, Your Place: Resources for Seniors at NL Public Libraries 
In this presentation we’ll review all aspects of using the library including an introduction to NL Public Libraries and a close look at Resources, Accessible Resources and Library Programs. This presentation is tailored specifically to highlight programs and services that are most suitable for making Seniors feel welcome in the library.
Presented by: Nancy Barker, Regional Librarian Central Division, NL Public Libraries
Register Here: Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Adult Protection and the Duty to Report
This presentation will provide an overview of adult protection. Participants will learn when and how to fulfill the duty to report, and the steps to take to ensure vulnerable adults are protected and supported.
Presented by: Henry Kielley, Director – Seniors and Aging & Adult Protection, Department of Seniors, Gov NL
Register Here: Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams
2:30pm – 4:00pm
Seniors and the Stress Response
This session will explore mental health through the lens of the nervous system, with a focus on understanding the body’s natural stress – or survival – responses: Fight, Flight, Freeze, and Fawn. While older adults often face unique and complex stressors, there are common patterns in how the nervous system responds and adapts. Participants will gain insight into how these stress responses may show up in themselves and in the individuals they support. The session will also introduce practical, accessible coping strategies tailored to each stress response, equipping attendees with tools they can use both personally and in their work.
Presented by: Bailey Reid, Mental Health Promotion Consultant, NLHS
Register Here: Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams
Thursday, May 14th, 2026
9:00am – 10:00am
Understanding Dementia 
This session provides a foundational understanding of dementia, including what it is and the most common types. We will explore the symptoms, progression, and day-to-day impact of dementia to build a clear base of knowledge for supporting people living with the condition.
Presented by: Alzheimer Society of NL
Register Here: Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams
10:30am – 11:30am
Recognizing Responsive Behaviours
This presentation explores responsive behaviours in dementia, what they are, why they happen, and how they are often expressions of unmet needs. We will look at common types of behaviours and discuss practical, compassionate approaches to understanding and responding effectively.
Presented by: Alzheimer Society of NL
Register Here: Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams
12:00pm – 1:00pm
Lunch and Learn – Grief and Loss in Frontline Care
In frontline work, relationships matter and so does the grief that comes with losing the people we serve. This session creates space to acknowledge that loss, explore how it shows up in our work and lives, and consider how we can care for ourselves and each other in its aftermath. Participants will deepen their understanding of grief and leave with tools to carry it in ways that feel more sustainable.
Presented by: Lori Petersen B.A., B.Ed.(Post-Secondary), M.S.W., R.S.W., Ruah Counselling Centre
Register Here: Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams
1:30pm – 2:30pm
Becoming a Dementia-Friendly Organization
This session focuses on practical ways organizations can become more dementia-friendly. We will explore communication strategies, environmental considerations, and simple changes that create safer, more inclusive, and supportive spaces for people living with dementia, their families, and care partners.
Presented by: Alzheimer Society of NL
Register Here: Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams
3:00pm – 4:00pm
Community Support Program: Supports for Seniors
The presentation will give a brief overview of the Community Support Program with a particular focus on our work with seniors. This will include the program’s goals, eligibility, assessment processes/considerations, service options and CSP social work roles
Presented by: Lee Jenkins, Clinical Mentoring Consultant & Holly Hunt, Program Coordinator, Community Support Program, NLHS
Register Here: Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams