This fall we went to the Pumpkin Patch. The children loved the petting zoo and playing in the corn kernel pit. One resident said she couldn’t believe how big the pumpkins were. She said she had seen them on television and thought it was fake! It was fun for staff and volunteers to introduce them to this quintessential fall activity.
We had beautiful weather for our annual Fenix Group picnic. Attendees each brought their own dish to share and Alejandra and Phil Best worked the grill. One of our members, Raquel, led the group in a centering nature activity that ended with each individual hugging 10 trees! It was a memorable experience for all.
Casa de Paz was fortunate enough to be included in the Hispanic Chamber of Cincinnati’s Hispanic Work Day. A large group of volunteers came to the house and cleaned windows and floors, touched up paint, moved furniture, and prepared the garden and patio space for winter. We are so very grateful for their support and hard work!
Luisa, our new part time Family Support Worker, has started facilitating a program for the children once a week. This month they played a board game, painted rocks, and played outside. Programming for the children is intended to strengthen their social-emotional development, as well as give them the opportunity to learn through play. This time also gives their moms an opportunity to relax and practice self care.
The language exchange or “Intercambios” program is going strong! Since mid-summer a dedicated group of volunteers have worked individually with residents of Casa de Paz to support their English language skills. This program is a low barrier, low stress environment for residents and volunteers to both have the opportunity to practice another language. The residents lead this program and come prepared to each session with questions and a topic in mind.
