We create and facilitate in-person and online social and support opportunities for older adults on the 2S-LGBTQ+ spectrum. We partnered with the Gilbert Centre to help deliver the New Horizons 55+ program to Indigenous people in Simcoe and Muskoka.
Some of our programs include coffee or walking get-togethers, support groups, stories/book clubs, bingo, workshops and more!
The staff involved with starting New Horizons intentionally chose imagery that would speak to the Indigenous and 2S-LGBTQ+ communities, as well as to people not within those groups – striking a balance of inclusivity. For those who are not comfortable coming out, this logo does not shout ‘queer’ – thus protecting privacies for those who want it.
We have incorporated all the colours of the Pride flag, including the BIPOC colours (Black, Indigenous People of Colour – impacted by systemic racial injustices), which are all shown within the 13 moons.
People are using the term to acknowledge that not all people of color face equal levels of injustice. They say BIPOC is significant in recognizing that Black and Indigenous people are severely impacted by systemic racial injustices. , within the 13 moons.
In 7 Grandfather teachings, the Beaver symbolizes wisdom and uses his natural gift wisely for survival. He alters his environment in a sustainable way for the benefit of his family, much like Indigenous people have lived their lives. For non-Indigenous people, the Beaver is a symbol of the North, like the areas we service in New Horizons.
The circle represents community. Historically, Two-Spirit people were kicked out of Indigenous circles. This circle represents an invitation to our Two-Spirit clients to join our circle and welcome them back in.
These circles represent the 13 moons on the Indigenous lunar calendar. The different moons and teachings are closely linked to nature, the cycle of life and important yearly events.
Sweet grass is one of the most important ceremonial plants and invokes kindness. The braid represents balance and strength. Each strand represents the mind, body and soul. Intertwining and braiding strands strengthen them, symbolizing the goal of being stronger together rather than alone.
We would like to acknowledge the Seniors Program Coordinators and the Two-Spirit Outreach Workers who collectively created the logo – along with the talented graphic design skills of Leisha Neuman (Two-Spirit Coordinator – OAHAS).
Coming together as a larger team allows for better community building across these vast regions, and a larger network of support for the areas we serve. We are better together!
We are committed to reducing the social isolation experienced by older adults and improve community building, inclusion, and the creation of spaces where people on the 2S-LGBTQ+ spectrum feel welcome, heard, and honoured.
We are here to support and empower those who identify as older adults (55+) within the 2S-LGBTQ+ community, to promote healthy relationships, and to increase access to health and social services.
Our Two-Spirit Outreach workers create exciting, accessible programs to meet the needs of the Two-Spirit community seniors, and act as a resource on issues of sexuality, sexual orientation, gender identity, homophobia, biphobia, transphobia and racism.
New Horizons for 2S-LGBTQ+ Older Adults program serves Central and Northern Ontario – including Simcoe/Muskoka, North Bay, and Sudbury areas.
125 Bell Farm Rd, Suite 200
Hours: 8:00am – 4:00pm
Phone: 705-721-9554
Fax: 855-941-2529
210 Memorial Ave, Unit 112A&B
Hours: 8:00am – 4:00pm
Phone: 705-259-9520
Fax: 855-941-2531
Nurse Practitioner
Phone: 705-247-2035
