Exciting News: Café for Care Partners & Creative Connections

We are proud to announce that ARTZ Philadelphia has received 2024 Innovative Project Support funding from The Sarah Ralston Foundation to launch an exciting new program: Café for Care Partners & Creative Connections. This multi-year pilot project will provide unique opportunities for care partners and their loved ones living with dementia to engage in enriching, arts-based activities, fostering connections and promoting well-being.

This project is designed to bring joy and support to families. Care partners will have the opportunity to prioritize their own self-care and connect with others, while their loved ones living with dementia participate in professionally facilitated activities such as music, poetry, movement, and visual arts. By sharing a welcoming space, the program eliminates the need for separate care arrangements and enhances the quality of life for both care partners and their loved ones.

We’re kicking off the project in January 2025 with community surveys to gather input and interest. In February and March, we’ll host Meet & Greet sessions to introduce the program and refine it based on feedback. The first in-person sessions of Café for Care Partners & Creative Connections will officially launch in May 2025.

With a focus on creating culturally relevant and inclusive experiences, we are excited to offer opportunities that reflect the diverse voices of our community. ARTZ-trained facilitators and artists will guide participants through meaningful activities, ensuring everyone feels welcomed and engaged.

We are also thrilled to welcome Cleo Smalls to the team in this new role as Community Engagement Manager. Cleo, who has been with ARTZ Philadelphia since 2021, has a proven track record of fostering connections in Northwest Philadelphia and Hunting Park through her leadership of our ARTZ in the Neighborhood Project. Cleo is excited to lead this new initiative and continue her dedicated efforts in the community.

With support from The Sarah Ralston Foundation, we’re taking meaningful steps to create a brighter future for care partners and their loved ones living with dementia—together. The Sarah Ralston Foundation supports and enhances the quality of life of vulnerable and underserved older adults residing in Philadelphia County. Born from the Ralston Center, an organization with a long history, The Sarah Ralston Foundation seeks to continue that impact by using its resources to give grants and to serve as a community partner to organizations serving older adults in Philadelphia.

 If you have questions or want to learn more, please contact Cleo Smalls at smalls@artzphilly.org.