Royal Crescent Gardens in Maple Ridge will have a new art program for its senior residents.
Royal Crescent Gardens is an assisted living community operated by Optima Living with the Fraser Health Authority at 11698-226th St.
Optima has received a New Horizons for Seniors Program Grant from the federal government of Canada. The grant, provides funding for projects that have a positive impact on the lives of seniors and their communities.
The Power of Art is a one-year program that will support residents at Royal Crescent Gardens in celebrating diversity through engagement with community art creation. By partnering with Artfull Enrichment, an organization that offers older communities access to art programs, Optima will host art sessions centered around exploring cultural diversity.
Optima plans to highlight different cultures and countries that its residents feel connected to.
“The New Horizons for Seniors Program Grants will allow Optima to invest in projects that will activate seniors’ minds, promote brain health and overall well-being, and inspire connection to personal and shared history,” said Farid Damji, co-founder and principal at Optima Living.
READ ALSO: ARMS to host annual Father’s Day fish release in Maple Ridge Park
“The sharing of cultures, traditions, and practices embedded within these programs creates an environment for residents from all backgrounds to call home,” he added. “Ultimately, these projects allow us to deliver on our promise to welcome each resident home and fulfill our mission to provide the best quality of life for our residents.”
This program is designed to combat social isolation, and promote dignity and independence. Overall, the project will support healthy ageing, while also celebrating diversity and promoting an inclusive and welcoming home environment.
The Grant Program evaluated candidates based on certain criteria including promoting inter-generational volunteerism, engaging seniors through mentorship, promoting healthy ageing, supporting social participation of seniors, and celebrating diversity and promoting inclusion.
READ ALSO: Maple Ridge author’s new book to inspire fun in everyday lives
Have a story tip? Email: ncorbett@mapleridgenews.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.