Artpark’s Memory Cafe’: Sensing Here and Now

November 6, 2024 at 9:25 AM
by Jennifer Pauly

A respite program to benefit those living with memory loss and their caregivers and loved ones

(Lewiston, NY) – November is National Family Caregiver Month and Artpark is excited to announce their participation in an exciting new program: Artpark’s Memory Cafe’: Sensing Here and Now. This is a free respite program created to increase the quality of life for those impacted by dementia and their loved ones. Artpark’s Memory Cafe’: Sensing Here and Now will be held on the third Wednesday of each month, beginning on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 from 1:30pm -3:30pm at Artpark.

Attendees should pre-register for these free events. Click here.to register for November 20.

Artpark’s Memory Cafe’: Sensing Here and Now is part of a collective group of 11 locations that also include: The Ashford Hollow Foundation, Buffalo History Museum, Buffalo Society of Natural Sciences, Burchfield Penney Art Center, Cradle Beach, Inc, Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House Corporation, Hispanic Heritage Council of Western New York Inc., National Comedy Center, Niagara Arts & Cultural Center and Reg Lenna Center for the Arts, Inc.

The Memory Cafe programs are made possible by Exhale and its funders: Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and Health Foundation for Western and Central New York.

Artpark’s Memory Cafe’: Sensing Here and Now, led by Director of Artpark Bridges, Cynthia Pegado, who will be sharing Artpark’s mission of “a transformative world of engagement”. Attendees will experience relaxed, interactive, sensory-rich activities accessible for all and restorative for care partners. Each gathering is centered in music, accessible art-making and fun movement games to awaken sensory enjoyment through our five senses.

Attendees can choose to participate or simply observe. It is a valid choice to soak up the energy of the music and other people without actually “doing”. Any place in the spectrum of observing-participating is embraced and respected. The ability to remember is NOT required! This is a “no answers are wrong” program. All interactive input is valued and respected. Some of these activities may spark a memory or felt emotions.

For December on dates, themes and Winter locations please click here.

If you or your company is interested in providing additional support for Artpark’s Memory Cafe’:Sensing Here and Now or any Artpark Bridges program, please contact Wendy Diina, Director of Development, at wdiina@artpark.net

Please visit artpark.net for additional events and information.

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The Earl W. Brydges Artpark is being operated by Artpark & Company, Inc. for the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation under a long-term collaborative agreement