October has arrived with its beautiful colours. The changing leaves are like fall ‘fireworks’ with the different textures of the leaves showcasing colours such as yellows and bright golds, punctuated by more intense colours from fire red to deep aubergine. These colours, along with bright orange pumpkins and ‘mums’ in full bloom, let us know that another season has arrived.
October 1st was National Seniors’ Day in Canada, where we are reminded and encouraged to stop and reflect on the seniors in our lives and our communities, and to say thank you for helping pave the way for us. Here at Kemptville & District Home Support, seniors are an integral part of our organization, from making up the largest part of our Volunteer Team, to those that access services and take part in the activities.
We are always striving to look for funding to bring programs that are requested from the seniors in our communities. Valerie Morris, one of our volunteers, was very instrumental in a recent proposal for funding this June; and, I am very excited that Kemptville & District Home Support is the successful recipient of a Government of Ontario ‘Seniors Community Grant’. We are very grateful to Minister Raymond Cho and MPP Steve Clark for keeping the needs of seniors at the forefront, as well as valuing funding for the arts.
The program that we received funding for is titled “Arts and Aging”, with the activities taking place over the fall and winter. There are 5 modules/events offering seniors the opportunity to experience a variety of different venues and art forms, including the arts right here in North Grenville. We are partnering with the Municipality of North Grenville in the implementation of this grant, and in looking for future ‘Arts & Aging’ funding opportunities. The hope is that each module will reach capacity, and potentially have wait lists, giving us important data needed for grant proposals.
Three modules are planned bus trips to: Upper Canada Playhouse; The National Art Gallery; and Brockville Arts Centre. Creative Dance Experience is a fun module, which is based on a successful activity in a neighbouring county. One of the comments from one of the participants was “I just love the freedom of it!” This was echoed by the other seniors, and also commenting about the wonderful comradery as well as enjoying the laughter.
Another module is ‘Afternoon & The Arts’ featuring presentations by local artists showcasing different art forms. The afternoon will start off with a lunch with background music provided by local musicians. This music will ‘thread’ the afternoon, weaving the presentations together. This will take place in Kemptville and will be offered at no charge.
Another great arts experience is the upcoming event Shake Rattle & Roll, being held November 8th, 9th and 10th at the Urbandale Arts Centre in Kemptville. This is a fun new musical compiled and arranged by Louise Atchison. Louise has gathered together a talented group of people who have already put in hours and hours of practice to make this the talked about performance of the season. In fact, the Sunday matinee performance has sold out! Tickets are available at KDHSI, online at www.kdhis.com and at Brewed Awakenings. Don’t be disappointed, get your tickets as soon as you decide on a date!
To find out about this grant or any of our programs or services, including volunteer opportunities, please give us a call at 613-258-3203; or, stop by the Seniors’ Centre at 215 Sanders Street, suite 101 in Kemptville.
“The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.” ~ Pablo Picasso
Until next time, Susan
Susan E. Smith, Executive Director Kemptville & District Home Support (KDHSI)
