As our landscape and routines continue to change, it’s vital to our well-being to keep connected with the people in our lives; personally, professionally and within our community. Albeit a challenge, there are some creative ways to celebrate togetherness. Take a look at the resources we’ve gathered below for ideas on building and fostering connection.

This article from CAMH has helpful information on dealing with isolation and supporting loved ones through this challenging time.

Being in a good space to connect and support others starts with you, and checking in on your person well-being.

This Self-Care Wheel is a great resource to check in and seek ways to support your overall wellness.

The Healthy Workplace Committee website offers many resources and ways to take care of your health and personal well-being.

Staying connected with family and friends has been a challenge for many folks, and this challenge can be especially hard to grapple with as the Holiday season approaches. As well, finding new and fun ways to be connected with those in your household can also be a challenge.

If you’re looking for something to do with your immediate family/ household, the Royal Botanical Gardens has many great on-going, outdoor activities to try! Check out their new Winter Wonders experience.

Another way to connect with those in your household is to prepare and share meals together! Have you checked out the McMaster Class series? There are a number of delicious recipes to try with the whole family.

Below are articles with some helpful ideas and information on navigating family connection during Covid-19.

Coping and Connection for Children and Families

Ways to stay connected during Covid-19

Preparing for the holidays in the age of Covid-19

For many of us, whether we are at home or on site, how we are working and engaging with our colleagues looks and feels quite different. It is important for teams to stay engaged with one another and to find ways to maintain a sense of comradery.

See some of the articles below for new ideas and ways to keep connected with colleagues, and to remember to express gratitude for those who are our on-site, essential workers.

Reimagining virtual collaboration for the future of work and learning

Staying human while virtual

Essential Canadians: Meet the people working on the front lines of the pandemic

Messages of gratitude to frontline heroes

There are many ways to get involved and support our community, which is especially needed during a pandemic, particularly in the holiday and winter season. Check out some of the ways you can connect with your community (visit the “Supporting Local” section on our site for local shops and BIAs that could use a little extra love this season!)

Mealshare – Buy a meal at a partner restaurant and they donate a meal to someone in need

Subscribe to the Office of Community Engagement mailing list

Find out how to get involved with and support the United Way

Check out your local BIA for shopping ideas:

Dundas Village BIA: https://downtowndundas.ca/

Barton Village BIA: https://www.bartonvillage.ca/

WestdaleVillage: http://www.westdalevillage.ca/

Downtown Hamilton: http://downtownhamilton.org/

Locke Street: https://www.lockestreetshops.com/

AncasterVillage: http://www.shopancastervillage.com/ 

Employee discount program – Work Perks – https://hr.mcmaster.ca/employees/health_safety_well-being/my-well-being/employee-discount-program/

Handmade House in Dundas and Burlington for local artisans https://www.thehandmadehouse.ca/