1. What is the purpose and role of STAC?

• The Senior Tenants Advisory Committee (STAC) provides advice to Toronto Seniors Housing Corporation, so it can create programs and policies that matter to tenants.
• STAC represents the “Citywide” circle of the Community Connect+ engagement approach.
• Tenants who participate in STAC represent the views of the broader tenant population (15,000 tenants in 83 buildings), not just their own or that of their building.

2. What is the length of term for membership?

• Two years, with the option to renew for one additional year.

3. Are there conditions for STAC membership?

• Tenants 59 or older in one of the 83 TSHC buildings can apply to be a STAC member.
• Members must have an active tenancy in good standing.
• Members may have previous volunteer experience related to building consensus, and/or community advocacy.
• Participation in STAC is voluntary.
• Participation in STAC will have no impact on the tenant’s lease or relationship with TSHC staff.

4. Why is recruitment being done at this time?

• TSHC would like to increase the number of tenants that participate in STAC to 24 members (six per region).
• Currently, there are eight active members.
• This will allow for more diverse voices to be part of the conversation while increasing the membership.

5. Are current STAC members remaining?

• Any current STAC members who have completed their terms will be transitioning off STAC (based on the Terms of Reference).
• These members have been asked to assist with the recruitment process and provide advisory supports to new STAC members.

6. Can previous STAC Members (who are no longer current members) apply?

• Yes, but priority will be given to new applicants.

7. How many STAC member seats are we trying to fill in this recruitment process?

• The goal is for a total of 24 STAC members.

8. Where can I get an application and what is the deadline to apply?

• Tenants can apply at: https://www.torontoseniorshousing.ca/stac-application
• To have a printed copy of the application form sent to you, email communities@TorontoSeniorsHousing.ca or visit the SSC (Seniors Services Coordinator) office in your building to pick up a form.
• Applications are being accepted until 4:00 p.m. on Friday, January 31, 2025.

9. Who supports STAC and who is leading the recruitment?

• TSHC is responsible for supporting STAC.
• Several City of Toronto divisions also participate in STAC meetings and support TSHC staff as required.
• TSHC and the City of Toronto are co-leading the 2024/25 recruitment process for STAC.
• Current STAC members have been asked for guidance, advice, and input into the recruitment plan.

10. Are STAC members paid?

• STAC Members will receive an honorarium, in the form of a gift card, of $40 per three-hour meeting, up to a maximum of $499 per year.

11. How have STAC members’ voices influenced change?

STAC was formed in 2020 and has influenced many aspects of work within TSHC. Some examples include:

• implementation of the Integrated Service Model
• transition of the TCHC Seniors Housing Unit to TSHC
• the development of TSHC’s Strategic Directions
• the Tenant Experience Survey
• several policies, such as Use of Community Space, Community Activities Fund
• the creation of the new Tenant Volunteer Code of Conduct
• the creation of Community Connect+ tenant engagement approach
• several important reports about seniors at TSHC

12. What technology do I need to participate in STAC?

• Access to email and internet is ideal, however not required.
• If members do not have access to technology, STAC meetings may be offered as “Hybrid” starting in 2025 (an in-person meeting with a virtual/online option).
• Materials such as agenda packages can also be printed and delivered to members who do not have technology.

13. In what language are STAC meetings conducted?

• STAC meetings are conducted in English.
• Agendas and materials are sent before meetings in English.

14. For people with a disability, are the meetings accessible?

• We will work with you to accommodate accessibility needs, e.g., physical disability, low vision, deaf or hard of hearing and mental health.

15. Are there other opportunities to get involved?

• Yes, for example, you can participate in building circles, tenant town halls, and CEO tenant tours.
• At some of these events, interpretation and translation services may be available.
• For more information, you can reach out to your CSC (Community Services Coordinator).

16. How will TSHC be advertising this opportunity?

• posters in TSHC buildings
• TSHC’s regional meetings with tenant volunteers
• in the Seniors Speak newsletter
• online information sessions for tenants
• through cross-promotion with community partners
• on TSHC’s website (https://www.torontoseniorshousing.ca/) and social media

17. What happens after a tenant applies?

• After a tenant applies, TSHC staff will review applications and create a shortlist of candidates for interviews.
• All applicants will receive a response.

18. How will interviews be done?

• Selected tenants will participate in a panel interview.
• The questions for the interview will be provided to applicants at least two days before the interview.
• Interviews will be done virtually, unless an accommodation is needed for an in-person interview.

19. Who can I contact for more information?

• Community Programs and Partnerships Clerk, Abdulahi Osman – (437) 875-3824 or communities@TorontoSeniorsHousing.ca