LOVELAND, Colo. (June 20, 2008) -- Marie Stroyan, a volunteer for Stepping Stones Adult Day Program, which is operated by McKee Medical Center, recently was awarded the 2008 Volunteer of the Year for the Memories in the Making program. The award was presented by the Northern Colorado chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.

The Memories in the Making program is a creative art expression program for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. At Stepping Stones, artwork is created in painting classes held every Tuesday at the day care center. A jury of professional artists selects artwork for an auction which is then professionally framed for display at the annual Memories in the Making Art Show and Auction held in early June. 

This year, artwork from the Stepping Stones program alone raised $8,700 for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Northern Colorado chapter.

Stroyan has volunteered for the program for more than three years, helping set up supplies each week, then guiding and assisting the artists as needed to create their paintings. 

“It’s just a wonderful program,” Stroyan said.  “Often times it brings back memories for them and they can paint something they are close to.  It is such a joy to see them just have fun and enjoy themselves for an hour and a half each week.  Many of them really look forward to it.”

Once a year, the paintings from the Memories in the Making program at Stepping Stones, as well as painting from programs at area nursing homes, are judged and put up for auction as a fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association.  The participants whose artwork is chosen for the auction are honored at a tea in April where they can see their work framed and ready for sale. 

Angel Hoffman, Stepping Stones program manager, nominated Stroyan for her kind and caring soul and her continued focus on serving others.

“The participants respond well to Marie’s gentle and warm approach,” Hoffman said in her nomination letter.  “Marie’s smile draws people to her and her concern and listening ear keep them there. She is encouraging to a group of people who are often anxious and unsure of themselves, but with Marie by their side, they are able to do what many of us take for granted – they are able to express themselves, and this communication is through art.”

Stepping Stones adult day program provides participants an opportunity to socialize, build friendships, and enjoy stimulating activities in a safe, caring environment, while providing caregivers respite and assurance that their loved ones are receiving safe, quality care..
For more information about Stepping Stones or the Memories in the making program, contact Angel Hoffman at (970) 669-7069.

Contact: Lisa Bohlmann
Phone: (970) 635-4032
Date: June 19, 2008