'Artpark's Memory Café: Sensing Here and Now' is a free respite program

New initiative to benefit those living with memory loss, their caregivers & loved ones

Artpark & Company Press Release

November is National Family Caregiver Month, and Artpark & Company is excited to announce its participation in an exciting new program: “Artpark’s Memory Café: 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 Café: Sensing Here and Now will be held on the third Wednesday of each month, beginning Wednesday, Nov. 20, from 1:30-3:30 p.m. at Artpark, 450 S. Fourth St., Lewiston. 

Attendees should preregister for these free events. Click here to register for Nov. 20.

Artpark’s Memory Café: 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 Corp., Hispanic Heritage Council of Western New York Inc., National Comedy Center, Niagara Arts and Cultural Center, and Reg Lenna Center for the Arts Inc.

The Memory Café 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 Café: Sensing Here and Now, led by Director of Artpark Bridges Cynthia Pegado, will share Artpark’s mission of “a transformative world of engagement.” Attendees can 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 the 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 dates, themes and winter locations, click here.

If you or your company is interested in providing additional support for Artpark’s Memory Café: Sensing Here and Now, or any Artpark Bridges program, contact Director of Development Wendy Diina at [email protected].

Visit artpark.net for additional events and information.