The past three years have been difficult for many of us for various reasons -- CHIRS ADS team included. As the unexpected pandemic descended upon us, we had to quickly pivot to online only programs. While this was widely successful, we know that everyone was itching to get back to in person programs. Not only did everyone miss all the programs offered by ADS, but they also missed the fun conversations, quick breaks playing cards, and the casual hangouts.
The good news is, as of January 2023, ADS has reopened its in-person gates (just a tad)! Currently we are offering twelve different programs taking place all over the city as well as at CHIRS head office. These programs include walking, bocce, music and fitness programs just to name a few. Please contact us if you would like to sign up for any of these programs.
Here is what some of our wonderful clients had to say about re-opening:
Dom S: "As a new COVID-era client, I am really glad in-person programs have started. These programs give me an opportunity to meet all of you for the first time, many of whom I have met only on Zoom. I also picked fitness related programs such as walking and bocce because I could use some physical activities in my life."
Shawn P shared that: "I am also new to CHIRS and wanted to get out of the house, stretch my legs, play some games, and get to know everyone from CHIRS. You are all very kind and helpful and I am looking forward to joining more programs."
Here is Dom S., along with Karim T., Scott M., ADS student Aileen C., and (not pictured) Shawn M. trying to decide which team has won the points
Here is the East Bocce group playing cards while taking a break all the bocce fun
Karim T. on ComFit: "I like that I am back at head office doing physical exercise. I get to hang out with my CHIRS buddies, listen to some tunes, and work out"
Karim T. is having a great time exercising along with Scott M., staff Emily M., Duane M., and Justin S.
Jill H. on starting to play bocce again: "I like that I get to go out of the house and throw some balls around! This is all fun you know. It seems like a grand old adventure to me; us getting all ready and heading out together. I am having lots of fun."
Jill H. looking extra cool last Tuesday while The Aldebrain guys are super competitive
attending bocce when it comes to playing bocce
The painting group on Thursdays is off to a good start. They have spent several weeks on their first project of gathering and painting rocks; the finished rocks will be used to decorate the rooftop garden this summer.
The group coming together and sharing their
ideas
Moni S. hard at work
The CHIRS logo beautifully painted on a rock
Some of the completed rocks
The boardwalk program has been modified for the winter and moved indoors but that does not mean we don't take advantage of nice weather and utilize the outdoor space at the facility whenever we can. Rohan A has said that "I like to walk by the beach in the summer but indoor walking is also great. I get to stretch my legs, share my jokes and rap songs with the group, and reach my goal of 10 000 steps. I am looking forward to the summer but it's nice that we have the option to walk outdoors when the weather is warm."
The group taking advantage of the warm weather and accessible walking spaces at Stephen Leacock Centre
The Friday Hamper Program has developed some of their own traditions. Long time participant Lorraine M. loves to drink tea: "I drink Tetley Tea every morning!!!! I have collected Tetley items for years but this year my sister mailed the Characters’ Houses to me. I take photos with the characters together to share them!!!!" She has taken her love for tea and integrated it into Friday Hamper Program's break time; everyone enjoys a cup of tea together (with all the necessary safety precautions in place of course)!
Here is staff Denise B and Dora E. enjoying delicious tea during their break time in the club (divided by a plexiglass barrier)
The Friday Food Hamper group hard at work
As we continue to open up more in-person programs, we hope that you all can join us soon. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone with even more programs in the spring and summer.
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