The Thames Art Gallery is pleased to announce it has received $25,000 in funding from the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program for the Spark Joy! program to promote creative engagement and reduce social isolation among older adults.
The Thames Art Gallery is looking for up to 10 senior volunteers (age 55+) to help us lead engaging art activities across our community. No art experience is needed, just a love of creativity and connecting with people in CK. Art therapist Krista Schneider and ceramicist Andrea Vuletin will provide art training to volunteers to work effectively with participants of all ages, including those living with dementia, to foster joyful connections through art.
Volunteers will participate in various art activities at the Thames Art Gallery, The Alzheimer Society of Chatham Kent Adult Day Centres, and a much-anticipated digital art collaboration with the Boys and Girls Club of Chatham-Kent.
“This program offers seniors a chance to gather socially, learn, and make a real impact in their community,” said Irene MacCreadie, Gallery Coordinator. in a media release. “Thanks to the New Horizons for Seniors Program, we’re proud to support seniors in finding purpose through art.”
To learn more, the public is invited to a Welcome Event on Tuesday, June 3 from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm at the Thames Art Gallery, located at 75 William St. North in Chatham. Attendees can enjoy light refreshments, a program overview, and an art activity.
The Spark Joy! program runs until March 2026 and is part of a national effort to improve seniors’ well-being and promote social inclusion.
For more information, please contact Irene MacCreadie, Gallery Coordinator, Thames Art Gallery at irenem@chatham-kent.ca or www.tagartspace.com. You can also follow us @TAGCK and @ARTspaceCK for updates.
