We are thrilled to announce that the Tellegacy program has officially been approved for funding in Canada! Thanks to the partnership with Rural Frontenac Community Services (RFCS) in Ontario, Tellegacy will launch its very first Canadian program serving older adults in the Sharbot Lake region.

Dr. Holloway and the Tellegacy team supplied a ready-to-use Tellegacy logic model and the RFCS adapted it to Rural Frontenac’s context. The application spelled out inputs, activities, outputs, and short- and long-term outcomes, including specific indicators and instruments. Reviewers saw exactly how the program would reduce isolation, increase belonging, and boost participation in community life

This milestone is more than a geographic expansion; this is another story of how Tellegacy’s intergenerational, story-centered approach can bridge social gaps in rural communities where isolation and transportation barriers are significant challenges.

Why This Matters

Older adults in rural Frontenac often face geographic isolation and health-related barriers that prevent them from attending community programs. The Tellegacy program will help reduce loneliness, improve mental health, and nourish lasting social connections by pairing older adults with volunteers in meaningful conversations that culminate in a personalized Legacy Book. These books capture life stories, wisdom, and reflections, creating something of lasting value for families and communities

What the Program Will Do

The Canadian pilot will:

  • Recruit and train volunteers to engage one-on-one with older adults.
  • Create meaningful matches for weekly conversations that build trust, belonging, and friendship.
  • Produce Legacy Books that preserve personal histories and highlight community connection.
  • Provide informal wellness checks and support that increase safety and peace of mind.
  • Strengthen partnerships between local agencies and volunteers, creating a network of care.

Expected Impact

The logic model guiding this program shows measurable outcomes, including:

  • Increased social networks and decreased loneliness among older adults.
  • Reduced social anxiety and transportation barriers.
  • Improved satisfaction with life and mental health scores.
  • Stronger collaboration across community organizations to better serve rural populations

A Model for Other Communities

This Canadian launch proves that Tellegacy is adaptable and scalable across borders. With support from funders and partner agencies, it can address the unique needs of rural and urban communities alike. For organizations considering ways to strengthen social connections, support healthy aging, and reduce healthcare costs tied to isolation, Tellegacy offers a proven model with measurable outcomes.

Join Us in This Movement

If your organization is interested in applying for funding to host the Tellegacy program, we would love to connect. Together, we can bring this powerful, intergenerational initiative to more communities to ensure that no older adult feels forgotten, but instead feel connected!

Email: social@tellegacy.com
Site: tellegacy.org

Canada is just the beginning.

Let’s connect older adults to purpose, story, and community — one conversation at a time.