There are two “sure things” that happen in life, age is a growing experience and our lives develop over time. We are a culmination, a gathering, of experiences. Older people are often considered wiser, as the saying goes. This is because so much happens during a lifetime. Now, technology allows everything to move much faster and our memories have the potential to burn out. For seniors, it is important to share their wisdom, experiences and memories with beneficiaries. A beneficiary can be a family member or a friend. And, in some cases, it is the person willing to “play the game”.

I’d like to bring your attention to Rampart Library District. They are a nonprofit that continues to grow old gracefully. They have a foundation board, which is part of SOAR’s nonprofit cooperative, and they work hard. They recently raised money, within a short amount of time, for a commissioned bear sculpture. That beautiful piece of art now sits in the front of the library in Woodland Park. The bear is on a bench, which creates a photo opportunity for people who visit. This is a great way to bring people to the front of a building where they can now enter. It is a creative approach for the growth of the library.

I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Tim Miller and his staff at Woodland Park library to discuss a creative aging activity that is coming to the library this fall. There’s an organization called “Think 360 Arts” and they’ve offered the library an opportunity to host a creative art program for the senior population (59 or older). “Creative Aging” is set to begin at the end of September on the 29th. It is a one-time program and it is okay to skip a class or two for appointments or trips.

I was asked to collaborate with Think 360 Arts and the library to bring the creative aging program to life. Basically, an art project brings a person’s history and memories to the forefront in the form of a game. It is a way to pass on history while also making it fun for everyone involved. Seniors begin with making a card game and then a lifestyle map. At the end of the session, we invite people to join us for GAMEDAY!

The growth we have while aging is ours alone but we can make sure it continues to be a memory in the lives of others. Our history is something that can never be replaced but it is also our gift to give to a willing beneficiary.

To know more about the creative aging program connect with Woodland Park library. Call 719-687-9281 to ask questions or reserve a spot. Walk-ins are also encouraged.

Gayle Gross has worked with nonprofits for all of her adult life. Now, she facilitates SOAR’s Nonprofit Cooperative of Teller County. Meetings for the group are held every other month at Woodland Professional Building. Call/text 719-233-9902 to learn about the next gathering. SOAR has a new email address: nonprofits@soarwithnetworkfundraising.com/ If you’d like to be featured in this column or learn more about how SOAR can help your nonprofit, please reach out.