By Pam Wright
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
For the second year running, Spark Joy! is igniting the creative process in Chatham-Kent.
Funded through a $25,000 New Horizons for Seniors federal grant, the Thames Art Gallery initiative has a number of outreach art programs planned for the fall.
According to TAG program co-ordinator Irene MacCreadie, the volunteer-driven effort provides an opportunity for people interested in art to share with others.
“We’re looking for volunteers to help out,” MacCreadie said at recent welcoming event held at the gallery to generate interest, noting at least 10 people are needed for the multi-faceted effort.
Initially aimed at reducing isolation and loneliness for seniors, Spark Joy! 2025 will also reach children and youth. As part of a partnership with Boys & Girls Club Chatham-Kent, volunteers will be trained to offer digital drawing workshops to youngsters online.
“They (volunteers) are going to train to learn to draw with iPads,” said MacCreadie. “It will be a big learning curve for some.”
Spark Joy! will again partner with the Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent to offer art workshops at day programs in both Chatham and Wallaceburg. Art therapist Krista Schneider, who also works with the Alzheimer Society, will help facilitate the effort.
Other programs are in the works, MacCreadie said, with more information to be made available later this summer.
People interested in volunteering with Spark Joy! can email [email protected]. No prior experience is needed.
