The 2019 Spring session for the Saint Mary's Woods OMA program has begun! Last week on February 1, several new volunteers participated in the volunteer training. 7 students from VCU ASPiRE are returning, as well as staff and community volunteers. We expect 20-25 volunteers every week and work with 17-18 elders, we really have a big art party every week!
OMA is so very compelling, and so much fun, we are so eager to begin this Friday, February 8th at 9:30 a.m., and are delighted to have our volunteers and elders form new friendships and create abstract art.
Pairs meet every Friday morning for about two months, until the final Friday of the session when Saint Mary's Woods creates and Art Show exhibiting the beautiful abstract art. The show will celebrate artists, residents, and family members and is open the public.
The session will be led by Artist Jamie Wigginton and the Art for the Journey team of staff and key volunteers. We all participate and have heartfelt enjoyment of this impactful program that is designed to promote well-being in people with dementia/Alzheimer's disease.
The Saint Mary's Woods OMA program is a robust success and a best practice. Dr. Lokon at Scripps, Art for the Journey, and Saint Mary's Woods partner in creating practicums for other people to become certified to bring this award winning program to facilities around Virginia and beyond.
