Feature Article April 10, 2002
LAND O' LAKES NewsWeb HomeContact Us
Continuing Alzheimer Initiative to feature gardeningby Will CybulskiOur Land OLakes Alzheimer Initiative has once again received additional funding to continue its intergenerational volunteer activities over the next three years. The original project, part of Ontarios Strategy for Alzheimer Disease and Related Dementias Initiative #10, has been operational since the fall of 1999.
In the first Alzheimer Initiative, I was pleased to work with the 18 fantastic volunteers, from students to seniors, who delivered a three-month program at Pine Meadow Nursing Home. Flying by the seat of our pants each Monday afternoon, we visited residents and participated in such things as crafts, painting, reminiscing, games, snacks, walkabouts, socializing, and the favourite of all, music. Two of our biggest hits were making butter and ice cream, and then partaking of our homemade treats. While there may have been some start-up apprehensions due to inexperience and first-time jitters, our volunteers pulled together into an energetic, fun, and focused group.
After the first round, there were sufficient funds left over for another program, so another group of 14 intergenerational volunteers was formed last fall. This time, our group opted to visit Pine Meadow and Spencer Place, a seniors residence in Cloyne. Those activities that had gone over well the first time were again offered. This group of exceptional volunteers formed into another cohesive and helpful unit, and in no time, was interacting in enjoyable ways, not only with the residents, but each other as well.
Our original financial support was limited to the end of March past, but in February, I was invited to submit a proposal for additional money. This Trillium funding would be channeled through a partnership of the Older Adult Centres Association of Ontario, United Generations Ontario and the Alzheimer Society of Ontario, for a three-years period, and would be available to only two projects in each of OACAOs eight regions. If criteria are regularly met, the latest funding could total $9,000 up to year 2004.
This time, I felt that success might be found in a fresh concept that would benefit both the residents and the two homes. Hence, the new funding will be applied to the creation of raised garden beds at both locations. It is my hope that some of our past and present Initiative volunteers will take part, and that others will sign on too. We will build a number of variable-height-beds, so both ambulatory and chair-user residents can take part in gardening activities. The raised beds will curb weeds, and I envision herbs and spices grown for their aroma-therapeutic, medicinal, and culinary value. Also on the list of plants I would like to see put in annually are flowers and salad ingredients, such as lettuces, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, onions, and various greens.
There is talk out there of one day having a community greenhouse and garden for our area. Could this be a first step? If you enjoy working with others of all ages, like getting your hands dirtied by Mother Earth, or are willing to share your green thumb expertise, please call me at the Volunteer Centre, 336-8934. And to all our valued and valuable volunteers out there, a great BIG thank you!
