Armenian Family Support Services hosts ‘Silver Shield’ info session at Holy Trinity

TORONTO–On Oct. 26, 2024, Armenian Family Support Services (AFSS) held a free information session focused on educating seniors about various types of fraud that commonly target them. This full-day event took place at the Holy Trinity Armenian Church.

Many people have experienced fraud attempts themselves or know someone who has. Falling victim to such scams often leads to financial loss, diminished confidence, and impacts on mental well-being. With more seniors actively online, they become more susceptible to scammers. AFSS organized this event to empower seniors, raise awareness about financial scams, and provide practical advice on recognizing and preventing fraud. Additionally, the session aimed to foster a sense of community among seniors, helping to reduce social isolation—a major issue many face today.

The initiative was made possible through a grant from the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program. Following a year of planning, the event saw over 150 participants, including seniors, junior seniors, and their caregivers, gathering to learn about common scams like grandparent schemes, identity theft, and other prevalent fraud tactics.

Photo courtesy of AFSS

Registration began at 9 a.m., with volunteers greeting attendees, checking them in, and assisting with seating. Special requests for transportation and mobility support had been noted and accommodated, ensuring a welcoming environment for all.

Rosette Babayan, the Silver Shield Project Manager, led the day’s program. Rita Odjaghian, Chair of AFSS, opened with a warm welcome. Babayan followed with an in-depth PowerPoint presentation covering common fraud tactics used against older adults. Her talk included case studies and video reenactments, enhancing understanding through real-life examples. After the presentation, attendees enjoyed a coffee break and participated in chair yoga, allowing time for socializing.

The next speaker, Margarita Grigoryan, Manager of Customer Service at the National Bank of Canada, discussed fraudulent schemes specifically targeting seniors. She shared examples from her own banking experience, covering romance and grandparent schemes and other scams aimed at vulnerable individuals.

Among the notable guests were the Honourable John McKay, MP for Scarborough–Guildwood, and Hoi Pui Chan, representing the Honourable Jean Yip, MP for Scarborough–Agincourt. MP McKay commended AFSS for addressing such a crucial topic, while Ms. Chan presented a certificate of congratulations signed by MP Yip. Reverend Archpriest Fr. Zareh Zargarian, Vicar of Holy Trinity Armenian Church, congratulated AFSS and highlighted the organization’s role in the community.

At lunchtime, attendees had the chance to converse, make new friends, and reconnect with old ones. Volunteers served lunch, assisted with survey completion, and distributed supply bags.

In the afternoon, police constable Juneid Patel, a community officer from 43 Division, held a Q&A session, accompanied by three fellow officers. Constable Patel provided advice on fraud prevention and other issues affecting seniors. The officers mingled with the attendees, fostering a sense of security and accessibility.

To inject some fun into the day, Babayan led a Chair Zumba session with lively Armenian music. Attendees, volunteers, board members, presenters, and even police officers joined in the dancing, creating a joyful atmosphere. The final speaker, Garen Hagopian, an IT Consultant from SuB LoGic Systems, discussed online safety and provided practical tech tips.

A musical interlude followed, featuring guest singer Silva Khachikian, who performed two Armenian songs, accompanied by pianist Vanik Hovhanessyan. The day concluded with a lively Bingo game, filling the room with laughter and excitement.

AFSS Board of Directors members—Houry Aznavourian, Cecile Jaladian, Seza Nazarian, Janet Yeremian, Joseph Yeremian, and Operations Manager Sona Balabanian—came to the stage to present a special plaque to Babayan, thanking her and her family for their hard work in organizing the event.

Participants expressed appreciation for the informative and enjoyable day, urging AFSS to plan similar events in the future.

AFSS is a non-profit community organization dedicated to providing emergency support, settlement assistance, and refugee sponsorship guidance in the Greater Toronto Area. It is committed to helping individuals fully integrate into and contribute to Canadian civil society. For more information about AFSS programs, services, and upcoming events, visit afsstoronto.ca or follow AFSS on Facebook and Instagram. ֎

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This article was published in our Dec. 2024 issue.