Creative Aging Program for Linden seniors
City of Linden
The City of Linden is inviting Linden seniors to “Tell Your Story”. Made possible by the Creative Aging Grant from The State of NJ’s Arts Education Program & The City of Linden Some lucky residents of Linden will get to participate free of charge in a creative workshop series this spring and fall.
Linden was awarded a Creative Aging Grant from NJ’s Council of the Arts. Only thirty cities/towns were selected to receive this grant. This 8-session program will focus on assisting our seniors to access their personal stories or memoirs. It will culminate in participants sharing some of these stories in front of family and friends. Their performance will be recorded and made available to all those who participate. All materials will be supplied, and each session will be 90 minutes long allowing plenty of time for inquiry, writing, storytelling, and discussion.
Speaking on the importance of this program, Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way said, “Abundant evidence shows that art making, and arts participation improves a number of health and well-being factors as we age. This investment is the key component of the Arts Council’s focus on lifelong learning, providing grants to arts organizations, libraries, veterans homes, senior and community centers to cover costs for artist-led programs for New Jersey adults aged 50 and over.
“Past participants of the program speak of the importance and value of being able to express themselves and share their life experiences in new and engaging ways” states Council Chair Elizabeth Mattson. The spring session commences on May 14th at the JTG Recreation Center, 330 Helen St. Linden, NJ. The remaining dates are May 16, 23, 30, June 6, 13, 18, and 20. Most sessions are on Thursdays and will start at 1:15 p.m. and end at 2:45 p.m.
Professional storyteller & workshop facilitator Judy England-McCarthy will be presenting the program. Parks & Recreation staff will be supporting Judy in her endeavors to make this program a success. Those interested in signing up should contact the recreation center (908) 474-8600. Space is limited so sign up early.
