Who’s Behind This?
Janet Torge currently wears the hats of television documentary producer and Radical Resthomes founder, speaker and facilitator. In past careers, she’s been a radio talk-show host and traffic reporter, Montreal Gazette columnist, author, prenatal teacher and doula, construction site manager, software manual creator and co-founder of the first rape relief centre in Canada.
Radical Resthomes was conceived some 30 years ago when she and her friends decided they would take over senior residences and make them their own. The vision has changed considerably since then but Janet has never lost sight of the idea and is determined to foster self-directed, affordable housing projects for seniors like herself.
The Saputo Foundation grant allowed us to see where Radical Resthomes fits in the international scene of innovative housing for seniors. With their funds, we engaged with other housing projects around the world, sharing the highs and lows of getting alternative ideas off the ground (read our Research Report here). With their funding, we also engaged a consultant who is preparing a feasibility study and business plan to ensure our first Pilot Project is a reality and not a dream on the horizon.
Eva Marsden Centre for Social Justice and Aging has been a big supporter for Radical Resthomes. Executive Director, Sheri Macleod, knew things were going to change in the world of seniors, when she opened The Boomer Café. Sharing her knowledge and expertise from years of working on senior projects and community organizing has helped Radical Resthomes as it navigates the tricky waters of funding and working with community partners.
Thérèse Casgrain Foundation was the first organization to actually give us some operating funds (you always remember your first!). With their help, we started a weekly Shared Housing Café and expanded our workshop programme. The members of the Thérèse Casgrain Foundation have always been enthusiastic about our work and that goes a long way.