Nametags were the order of the day on Feb. 12, as it was not the usual Therapeutic Activation Program for Seniors luncheon where familiarity serves to overcome forgetfulness. Two additional groups joined the TAPS group to be recognized for their hands-on volunteer work: the Krafty Kronys and the Crest View Village Auxiliary knitters. Their volunteer hours are in turn acknowledged by the Dollars for Doers program of Telus, a Give Where You Live initiative, resulting in a generous donation to TAPS. Unfortunately, the Telus Community Ambassadors were not able to join us to be thanked in person, being thwarted by the heavy and blowing snow in Cranbrook.
Creative partnerships like this are a living example of a caring community, and for us, like so many other non-profit organizations, are one of the keys to the viability of our programs.
The luncheon gathering began with introductions by each group. TAPS clients, volunteers and staff joined in listening as Terry Nowak reported on the stats that demonstrate the success of this program Laughter interspersed some of the responses from around the table as individual voices spoke up to introduce themselves: “I’m a Krafty Krony and a knitter,” “I’m an in between person,” “She means she does everything,” “I’m a Krafty Krony but I don’t knit,” “But she is our pie lady,” “I’m an audience,” “I’m the bag lady,” “She makes hundreds of goody bags that we sell,” “I came with her (husband pointing to his wife). I don’t knit,” “But he helps at TAPS on call,” “I’m a TAPS person,” “I’m a Crest View knitter,” “I come here to be waited on” (grinning mischievously).
Last month, I reported that we hadn’t hired the new staff person. Well that has changed, and we welcome the smiling face and talents of Hans Bringman, program assistant and cook.
Clients, volunteers and staff made Valentine’s decorations for the tables and walls. They add an extra cheery feel to the centre, especially on these cloudy days. Volunteer Terje Munkerud stopped by to help with a plumbing issue. Clients come and go after lunch with friends or relatives; some on the TAPS bus to go shopping or maybe to go back home. Some attend once a week, and others are everyday participants often helping out. Watch out if program co-ordinator Bridget Currie sees you are sitting still and willing, for you’ll soon be offered a task — although, judging by the smiling faces and constant attendance, it seems to be just what people want.
As part of our wellness program, volunteers Elaine Tkachuck and Nicole Nilsson run a monitoring clinic every three months at TAPS for five health indicators, and volunteers Eileen Boyden, Kathy Fowler, Margo Beaudry and Ron Hurry run a foot care clinic each month. Clients taking advantage of this have records kept and it is a way of assessing over time or being alert to sudden changes that the client can then have followed up by their doctor. It’s a time for conversation, a safe place to ask questions and a great preventative initiative.
We wish to send heartfelt appreciation to our ongoing donors, volunteers and partners. This month’s special thanks goes to the Crest View knitters, Krafty Kronys and Telus ambassadors. Next month, we’ll feature Gleaners as one of our valued supporters.
We’re just a phone call away if you want to volunteer, 250-428-5585.
Maureen Cameron is the community liaison development co-ordinator for the Therapeutic Activation Program for Seniors.