A therapeutic arts program for unpaid caregivers aged 55+
Your Creative Reach is a therapeutic arts program for unpaid caregivers aged 55+ that offers creative activities focused on well-being, relaxation, self-expression, and stress reduction. Through hands-on, process-based art-making experiences, participants are encouraged to slow down, reflect, explore, and connect with themselves and others in meaningful ways.
This multi-faceted program includes on-site and off-site programming, therapeutic art kits, and online video content, making creative experiences accessible to caregivers in a variety of circumstances and at different comfort levels.
This multi-faceted program includes on-site and off-site programming, therapeutic art kits, and online video content, making creative experiences accessible to caregivers in a variety of circumstances and at different comfort levels.
Outreach
We currently offer off-site therapeutic arts programming in partnership with three community organizations in the region: Archway Community Services, Alzheimer Society of British Columbia, and Sumas First Nation.Through these classes, we aim to create supportive and inclusive spaces that encourage agency, choice, exploration, and self-direction. Projects can be adapted to support collective healing and community connection, or to focus on personal reflection, empowerment, and individual meaning.
To learn how to join us at one of these locations, follow the links below.
Alzheimer Society of BC
Archway Community Services
Sumas First Nation
On-Site
We invite you to join us at C3 (Culture, Creativity & Community). Our C3 program uses personal storytelling, hands-on activities, and field trips to explore themes connected to our current exhibitions. Upcoming themes include environment & land, personal histories, and cultural connections.Join us on Wednesdays at 10:15 AM for coffee and conversation. Programming begins at 10:45 AM. Program runs weekly September-May.
To learn more and register…
Art Kits
Our therapeutic art kits offer a flexible option for caregivers to participate on their own schedule. Each kit includes materials and step-by-step instructions for a reflective, therapeutic art activity designed to encourage creativity, relaxation, and self-expression.These kits can be completed individually, or with a friend, and help reduce barriers related to time, mobility, and transportation, making creative experiences more accessible. Kits can be picked up at The Reach Gallery Museum or through one of our community partners.
Abbotsford Hospice and Grief Support Society
Alzheimer Society of BC
Archway Community Services
Abbotsford Recreation Centre
Rebalance Rehab
Maplewood Care Society
Sumas First Nation
Videos
Have you ever said, “I don’t have a creative bone in my body”? Well, you’re right, you don’t! You have creative muscles. And just like any other muscle, they need exercise!Rather than focusing on creating a finished artwork, these videos are designed to help participants build confidence and develop creativity through observation, imagination, curiosity, and experimentation. The activities use simple materials commonly found at home and are accessible to people of all experience levels.
Inspired by the belief that creativity can be practiced and developed, the series encourages participants to build their “creative muscles” through observation, imagination, play, and personal expression.
Each video features an artist from the Fraser Valley and introduces a creative activity inspired by that artist’s creative practice. Participants are invited to explore ways of thinking, seeing, and creating that connect to the artist’s work while discovering their own unique ideas and approaches.
Repetitive Pattern Collages
Inspired by the work and creative approach of artist Faria Firoz, this video explores how repetition, pattern, and transformation can be used as tools for creative expression. Participants will create a series of patterned papers using simple repeated marks, then cut, arrange, and combine them into a collage. Through experimentation and play, the activity encourages participants to see familiar shapes and materials in new ways while developing observation, imagination, and creative confidence.
