Starting Fresh, with a Friendly Face

Moving into a new place can feel like stepping into a whole new world – new surroundings, new neighbours, new routines. It’s a little bit like arriving at the start of an unfamiliar path with a backpack full of questions and a map you’re still trying to unfold.

That’s where Atria’s Resident Ambassadors come in – part friendly tour guide, part social sherpa, and 100% committed to helping newcomers feel at home from day one.

“These first days matter,” says Shannon Wilson, National Engage Life Director. “This program is about one thing: friendship. Everything else follows from that.”

With that simple truth as her North Star, Wilson recently gave the Resident Ambassador program a thoughtful refresh – reimagining it as Adventures in Friendship, a spirited initiative inspired by national parks and the joy of exploring new paths together.

Belonging Starts Here

The refreshed program sets out with a clear purpose: Help new residents feel like they belong from the moment they arrive. But instead of job titles and checklists, it focuses on natural, neighbourly connection.

In the past, Resident Ambassadors held specific roles – fitness, music, spirituality – but the format started to feel too much like work, and not enough like friendship.

“We needed to change this approach,” Wilson explains. “So, we simplified it to just ‘Resident Ambassadors,’ reflecting that residents are wonderfully multi-dimensional people with varied interests and talents.”

It’s a reminder of what we all know deep down: The most meaningful relationships start with kindness, shared laughter and simply showing up for each other.

Neighbours Helping Neighbours

Loneliness is more than just a feeling – it can have a real impact on our health. The best remedy? Genuine connection and community.

Resident Ambassadors lend a hand in everyday ways – offering a warm smile at breakfast, inviting someone to a game night or introducing them to a favourite class or hobby. “New residents often wonder if they’ll fit in,” says Wilson. “That’s where our ambassadors make all the difference.”

Friendships That Grow and Give Back

Friendships here don’t just form – they flourish. Take Mavis discovered that welcoming others brings unexpected joy to her life. Connie was so moved by her warm welcome that she soon became an ambassador herself. The kindness keeps going – one welcome often leads to another.

A Theme Inspired by Adventure – and Home

The updated program features a cozy, outdoorsy look and feel, bringing the Adventures in Friendship theme to life. Inspired by the natural beauty of Canada’s great parks, the theme includes compass-style icons and rustic, wood-toned materials that invite a sense of shared discovery.

Residents who want to become ambassadors take part in “Rush Week” – a series of fun challenges like introducing themselves to new neighbours or attending events together. They’re then honoured in a special ceremony that marks the start of their new role as a community guide.

And they wear their roles proudly – with cheerful pins, custom vests and door signs that read, “Just knock, neighbour. I’m happy to help!” These thoughtful touches are more than accessories – they’re symbols of community spirit.

Creating a Culture of Warm Welcome

For families considering retirement living, it’s comforting to know that someone will be there to say, “You belong here.”

“Potential residents and their families can hear from staff how great the community is,” says Wilson. “But hearing it from someone who actually lives there? That’s incredibly reassuring.”

These early connections help new residents settle in more quickly, get involved and build a strong sense of belonging.

Looking Ahead, Growing Together

While the program continues to grow across Atria Retirement Canada communities, Wilson has even bigger dreams.

“My long-term vision is to expand this idea beyond our walls – to schools, local senior centres and community events,” she says. “Our residents have so much to offer, not just here, but also in the world around them.”

For now, every handshake, every shared meal and every high-five is part of this ongoing journey – showing us all that the best paths in life are the ones we walk together.

Curious About Life at Atria?

Visit your nearest Atria Retirement Canada community and meet a few Resident Ambassadors in person. You’ll see firsthand how a warm welcome can make all the difference.