It has been a stressful year for many caregivers which is why a Richmond not-for-profit hopes to help provide a little relaxation with a series of free, outdoor Chinese calligraphy workshops.
Richmond caregivers, care recipients, their families and friends are welcome to join these in-person calligraphy workshops to slow down and take a break from everyday life.
Ed Gavsie, president and CEO of Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives (RCRG), said it’s all about building connections and giving support to unpaid caregivers who have provided voluntary care to seniors throughout the pandemic.
“You could imagine people have been full-time caregivers, and they probably haven’t been out, even more so during the pandemic because they are afraid of passing on anything to the person they are giving care (to),” said Gavsie.
The calligraphy classes will be conducted in Mandarin and Cantonese with English translation; people of all skill levels are encouraged to join.
The classes will be hosted by RCRG’s Richmond Family and Friend Caregiver Hub, which was formed two years ago to ensure caregivers had access to get information, resources and support.
According to Gavsie, these fun activities are popular and have received great feedback from the local community. Once the pandemic hit, event organizers had to move workshops online, but they are glad that the number of participants hasn’t dropped.
Gavise remains hopeful that more caregivers will come out to enjoy the sunshine, have fun and build connections through RCRG’s summer events.
The sessions will be held monthly on Fridays in July, August, and September. As a family-friendly event, all supplies will be provided.
To register for the Chinese calligraphy sessions, or learn more about the Caregiver Hub, please contact Emmett Chan at 604-279-7099 or [email protected].
