OMA Chesterfield

Opening Minds through Art (OMA) in Chesterfield

Now available to the community for free at Chesterfield county libraries.

Opening Minds through Art (OMA) is a failure-free, intergenerational art-making program designed to empower older adults of all cognitive abilities to reclaim their creative voice. With the gentle support of a trained volunteer, each artist enjoys a sense of autonomy and the beneficial joy of social connection.

At OMA Chesterfield, people aging in place come and partner with a trained volunteer to create original abstract artwork. Caregivers are invited to enjoy respite at the library with the support from an Alzheimer’s Association rep.

“But I’m not an artist.”

“Good; I think you’re really going to like OMA.”

Discover OMA

Add an overline

Come relax, tap into the inner artist, & discover friendship at OMA

“You all have helped me and my husband more than you know.”

“Thanks to you and all the volunteers that helped with the OMA art program at the Chesterfield library. I have thoroughly enjoyed the program and you all have helped me and my husband more than you know. The program and the people are so fun, warm, welcoming and wonderful!”

-Barbie, Caregiver, summer 2025

Upcoming Sessions

Winter 2026: Midlothian Library | REGISTRATION OPEN
Spring 2026: Clover Hill Library
Summer 2026: LaPrade Library
Fall 2026: TBD

Each program cycle is six-weeks. Commitment to attend every session fosters a more rewarding experience, though commitment is not required!

Register below for the winter & spring sessions!

Winter 2026 | OMA at Midlothian Library
Dates | Wednesdays | January 7, 14, 21, 28 & February 4 | Art Show February 18
Time | Session 11:00 am – 12:00 pm | Volunteer timeframe 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Location | Midlothian Library | 100 Millworks Crossing, Midlothian, VA 23114
Contact | OMAChesterfield@artforthejourney.org
Training | January 6, 10a – 1p | IN-PERSON

Spring 2026 | OMA Clover Hill Library
Dates | Tuesdays | March 17, 24, 31, & April 7, 14, 21 | Art Show April 28th
Time | Session 11:00 am – 12:00 pm | Volunteer timeframe 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Location | Clover Hill Library | 6701 Deer Run Dr, Midlothian, VA 23112
Contact | OMAChesterfield@artforthejourney.org
Training | TBD

To inquire or learn about additional OMA programs in the area, please fill out our general volunteer form and leave a comment! We’d love to help you get plugged in.

Volunteer as an Art Partner

Register a Participant

Questions? Contact Bonnie Cauthorn
Certified OMA Facilitor
omachesterfield@artforthejourney.org

In Chesterfield County the prevalence of Alzheimer’s for those over 65 is 10.7% and we know for each person living with dementia, there are at least 1 or more caregivers. OMA provides an opportunity for those living with dementia to be socially engaged and provides caregivers an opportunity to receive resources and connect with others.

Rachel LawsonAlzheimer’s Association

In the midst of a particularly difficult time in my own life, I’ve made new friends in a fun, creative, encouraging environment.

Kathy J. Community Volunteer

I have thoroughly enjoyed the program and you all have helped me and my husband more than you know. The program and the people are so fun, warm, welcoming and wonderful!

Barbie Caregiver