Katherine Bender, Building Bridges through Art
 
Katherine is with the dementia unit of Trinity Village, seniors care.
 
She presented a new and unique intergenerational program that sees youth partnered with seniors with dementia, in an art program.  People with dementia can still express themselves.
 
The Opening Minds through Art (OMA) program was developed at Miami University in Ohio.  Trinity Village is the leading organization in Canada looking to expand the program across the country.
 
Artists choose what they want to create, using the guidance of the trained staff from OMA.
 
OMA provides one-on-one quality time in an intergenerational setting.  The program has been very popular, with a keen interest from high school students. 
 
Sessions are 8 weeks long and cost about $10k, which includes staffing and supplies
 
Artists follow a “fail safe” process to develop unique and interesting art that can be framed.  The artist retains rights over their work.  Trinity is looking for ways to leverage the value of the work to expand their program.

 

 
 

 

 

 

Wishing Doug Fisher all the best as he goes in for surgery soon.

 

Jack Kinch reminded that in two weeks the regular lunch meeting has been moved to dinner at Concordia with our Scottish curlers.  Please RVSP ASAP.

 

Saturday, December 3^rd from 9-12 is our annual “Oh Christmas Free” event at KidsAbility.  Please let Jerome know if you can assist.

 

Wednesday, December 14^th is our annual Christmas party at Westmount G&CC.

 

Karin Voisin reminded of the annual “Spirit of Giving” program whereby the club helps to provide gifts for families in need this Christmas.  More details to come.

 

Mac Graham reminded us of the upcoming “Trivia Challenge” for Marillac Place coming up on Friday, November 11^th, hosted by Kitchener Knights of Columbus.  Team of 8 are encouraged to register.