HAGERSVILLE—The Haldimand Abilities Centre (HAC), which operates as a community-based program of the Alzheimer’s Society, has been providing health and wellness programs free of charge for 15 years. From exercise to art to support groups, HAC facilitates a wide range of activities that contribute to the wellbeing of the community.
Keisha Thelwell, Social Recreation and Public Relations Coordinator, explains, “HAC offers an environment for social connections, learning skills, maintaining physical health, emotional support, and beyond. The programs and services delivered include social, physical, cognitive, emotional, and educational activities.”
Seated Fitness, Power Hour Circuit Training, Chair Yoga, and Chair Zumba are among the exercise programs offered. The art program includes Canvas and Mocktails, Start with Art, and Meditate and Paint. Support Groups include Grief Support Drop-In, ABI Support Group, and Vision Loss Support Group. Educational speakers and social events are also featured on a monthly basis.
An anniversary celebration was held on October 26, 2023 with many program participants and members of the community offering their appreciation to HAC staff. Musical entertainment was provided by Ashley Bell and Rick Henderson, who often perform for HAC programs.
Haldimand Norfolk MPP Bobbi Ann Brady commended HAC for providing important programs that people enjoy taking part in. Regarding the latest HAC event calendar, the MPP joked, “Even politicians don’t keep such full calendars.”
Brady congratulated the organization for getting through the “tough Covid years” adding, “Thanks to the volunteers and staff for a job well done…. Thanks to the participants for continuing to support the good work of HAC.”
According to Michelle Lewis, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Society of Brant, Haldimand, Norfolk, Hamilton and Halton (ASBHNHH), the value of HAC is that “people can come to one place to receive services. It’s a hub for the community.”
Services include programming geared to individuals with dementia, brain injury, and visual impairment with a focus on capabilities.
Lewis recognized one staff member in particular during the anniversary celebration. Cindy Beaver has been Administrative Assistant at HAC since the beginning and will soon be retiring in December. Lewis says, “She keeps a grip on things and we couldn’t have done this without her.”
Reflecting on her 15 years at HAC Beaver says, “It’s been great, it’s fun; never a dull moment. I love working with and meeting new clients.”
The work of the Alzheimer’s Society and HAC is especially important considering there are more than 26,000 people living with dementia in Haldimand and Norfolk. This number is expected to grow by 2030. With its staff, volunteers, and innovative programs and services, Lewis asserts, “HAC is an example of being there for the community.”
For more information on HAC programs, visit: haldimandabilitiescentre.com. In-person and virtual programs are available. To register call 905-768-4488 ext. 100 (in-person programs) or email hac@alzda.ca (in-person and virtual).
