Seniors' Art Programming
Why?
Simple art sparks joy!
Some seniors fall into a vulnerable population and art workshops bring people together to connect. It provides a social outlet, let's them be creative and try something new.
My senior art programming takes into account several factors: ensures that those with hand dexterity issues can still participate. Arranging tables so wheelchairs can be accommodated and bringing an art activity that is elevated but accessible.
Often budget is a barrier so Chu Chu Chinatown helps provide funding to reduce the cost.
How?
The art supplies at Chu Chu Chinatown are all donated to us from our neighbours and businesses with overstock. We sell them back to the community at a reduced rate and all proceeds go towards our senior art programming.
I also apply for grants to help fund the senior centres that have little or no budget for art classes. Although these do not come frequently, they help bring special events to those centres.
Currently I partner with the West End Seniors' Network (former board member), Oasis Roddan Lodge in the DTES and soon the Mah Society. I am also working with Central City Lodge by Providence Living.
What Else?
I have a focus in providing art workshops but I also work with community partners in other sectors.
I partner with ONO Vancouver to create food safety and information talks to senior centres and also provide food giveaways.
In 2023 we worked together to provide 80 Christmas meals with turkey, stuffing, veggies to home-bound seniors in the West End.
I partnered with Davie Village Bakery to proivde 80 pastries for the seniors' Christmas Day luncheon.
Currently we are working to establish a fresh veggie hamper at two senior centres.
Working with other community leaders to help seniors in our neighbourhoods, I am so happy that I can provide admin or support logistics to make these programs happen!