CDM Services began offering therapeutic visual art classes two years ago, which touched dozens of clients and their families at our CDM Adult Day Services Center. After attending an international conference in Canada last October on Dementia and the Arts, we learned more about the power of all the arts in the lives of people experiencing dementia and other issues related to aging. We learned from international experts who are providing cutting edge programs in dance & movement, drama & theater, music, and the visual arts all over the world.
Upon our return, it became clear that CDM Services was poised to bring these creative offerings to elders in Clark County. In order to expand more space was needed. CDM Studios...Clark County's Hub for Aging and the Arts was born.

CDM has partnered with Gallery 360 at their new location in Vancouver. Gallery 360 is providing the space on the days they are normally closed for this cutting edge program. This venue provides a place that is not defined by aging. It's a beautiful gallery with wonderful wood floors and lots of space to be creative. Future plans of CDM Studios include providing speakers, trainings, and classes in visual arts, dance & movement, drama and music. We have an Advisory Board made up of experts representing each area of the arts that are informing our program!
Our inaugural event of CDM Studios is "Celebrate Summer With a Drum Circle" on Tuesday, August 9th at 5:30 pm at Gallery 360. 111 W 9th St. in Vancouver.

Join us...improve your mood, reduce stress and have lots of fun! Drums and small percussion instruments will be provided will be provided compliments of Upbeat Music Therapy but feel free to bring your own. No musical experience is necessary.

Anne Vitort, board certified music therapist (and member of our CDM Studios Advisory Board) will facilitate. Donations benefit CDM Adult Day Services Center's music program. For further information, contact Marti Sanders at 448-0481.

Kate Jones and Marty Rifkin of the KMR Group Foundation announce $150,000 gift to CDM Services to start capital campaign on Share Fromhold Center site.

ELDERFRIENDS PROGRAM LAUNCHES IN CLARK COUNTY
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

VANCOUVER, WA JULY 22, 2011 – CDM Services is excited to partner with Kiersten Ware, Founder of ElderFriends, Inc. to implement an innovative program, which will expand services to meet the needs of vulnerable elders in Vancouver, Washington. Successfully launched in Seattle, WA in 1996 and in Richmond, VA in 2007, we are replicating this proven model in an effort to relieve isolation and loneliness among low income, "shut in" elders.
ElderFriends is a volunteer-based friendly visitation program that provides companionship, outreach, and advocacy services to isolated older adults. Many seniors live alone & without the support from family and friends. ElderFriends volunteers are matched with Vancouver Elders who are 65 or older, living alone in their own homes or apartments and wish to have a friendly visitor.
Volunteers must be able to commit eight hours a month to making friendly visits and phone calls to seniors in their community who are feeling socially isolated. To participate, volunteers must complete an application form, clear background checks, and attend training session.

Make a difference in your life and in your community, call Kiersten Ware at (360) 816-0927 or e-mail ef@cdmltc.org for more information.

# # #

Kiersten Ware, MS Gerontology
Founding President, ElderFriends, Inc.

C: 360.608.5969

W: www.elderfriendsinc.org
E: kware@elderfriendsinc.org

Letter on Legislative Budget Regarding Agency Home Care

Greg Johnson of the Senior Messenger attended our "Christmas on the Columbia" event in December and shares his impressions of CDM in the latest issue of the "Senior Messenger".

The CDM Creatvie Connections team attended the 5th International Conference on Dementia and the Arts, and is poised to bring a wonderful array of services to Clark County

Seattle Times Editorial by Executive Director and Washington Home Care Coalition President Eric Erickson regarding the proposed DSHS cuts to agency home care.