It takes a Village: Community Resources
by Debbie Hommel, ACC/MC/EDU, CTRS
A good activity department works within a defined budget. Some budgets are ample, and some are less than ample. However, there are some things money cannot buy. A good activity department also takes advantage of the wide scope of services the community can offer. Many community resources are free and can enhance the monthly schedule considerably. Community resources require an investment of time to find them and coordinate their services. The following is a list of community resources that may enhance your activity program:
- The local library is the number one resource for free materials. The list is endless from books, magazines, movies, speakers, special programs and music for lending and use on site. Some libraries have a book mobile which can be scheduled to visit your community/facility. The library is a great destination for off premise outings. You can also find various listings in library data bases. Many libraries keep listings of local clubs, associations, community groups and other sources of information. These lists offer more contact information on community resources
- Local public schools are the second great resource for support. The elementary school students can be invited to visit for intergenerational programming or pen pal programs. The high school students can be encouraged to visit as regular volunteers with the intent to prepare them for various careers or add to their college resume. Local college students can visit the facility as a part of their schoolwork if taking gerontology or human service course. The activity director needs to set up structured programs for the students and discuss potential volunteer opportunity or programs with the teachers. It is best to set the program up before the school year begins or at the very start of the school year.
- Public school music, drama and sports programs can offer sources of programming. Taking the residents to drama or music rehearsals can be an off-premise trip. Taking some of the male residents to afternoon high school sporting events would be a fun trip. Additionally, many schools will bring their choral or band students to the facility for a free concert.
- Specialty schools, such as dance schools, karate schools, or music schools, can provide sources of free programming. These schools will bring their students for a complimentary show, demonstration or recital.
- The vocational schools may provide sources for manicures and beauty days from their Beauty Culture classes. Many vocational schools have cooking schools who are looking for “guests” to test and enjoy the food made.
- The local fire department may be willing to bring a fire engine to the facility. The male residents may enjoy meeting with the firefighters and discussing the work and tools of the modern firefighter.
- Local churches and spiritual leaders are a standard community resource. Churches can provide religious services as well as multiple volunteers. Placing a request for volunteers in the church bulletin is often a free service. The activity department can think of various programs for the church volunteers, beyond formal church services. Bible studies, hymn sings, 1-1 visits, Bible Baseball, and Bible Trivia are some programs that church volunteers could perform.
- The local florist may agree to conduct a flower arranging class. If your facility frequently refers one particular florist in town, they may be amenable to volunteering periodically.
- The local animal shelter may be a suitable source for a pet therapy program. Many animal shelters or rescue groups strive to socialize their animals until they are adopted. The activity professional should review their state regulations for visiting pets prior to inviting the animal rescue groups or shelters to the facility.
- The local arts and craft superstores (Michael’s or AC Moore) may agree to conduct a craft demonstration. If the facility purchases many of their craft supplies from the store, the manager may be willing to send an employee to demonstrate a class with the materials.
- Local museums or historic societies are a wonderful source for speakers or an off-premise trip. Very often they will bring local artifacts for discussion.
- The County and State Park systems offer many programs throughout the year. They sometimes send out speakers about nature-oriented topics. Additionally, the Park Systems have free concerts and festivals which are great destinations for off premise outings.
- Check out the local Chamber of Commerce and Division on Aging for additional resources, contacts or free events to take your resident.
Building a community resource file is a lifelong task of the activity professional. The internet and social networking sites are a great resource sharing arena. There are numerous information sharing activity-based groups on Facebook. Information is available and shared readily. Check out DH Special Services Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/81068562024