Connecting the Community

High Notes Avante: Transforming Lives Through Music

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre speaks with Ingrid Taheri, the founder of High Notes Avante, about her journey in promoting mental health through music.
They discuss the evolution of the organization, the impact of group singing, the challenges of fundraising, and the importance of community engagement.
Ingrid shares her experiences with gala events, the shift towards smaller gatherings, and the plans for expansion into Toronto.
The conversation highlights the therapeutic benefits of music and the ongoing efforts to support mental health initiatives.
 
Here is the link to:
music lesson: https://form.jotform.com/222164127244246
group singing https://form.jotform.com/253088680781265
 
Here's a YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@highnotesavante9693
 
Check out their mental health anthem:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JvoMTNMBWI

Empowering Kids Through Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre interviews Anna Scetinina, a psychotherapist and author, discussing her new workbook designed for children to help them face their fears using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Anna shares her journey from being an artist to a therapist, her experiences with homeschooling, and the importance of creativity in therapy.
The conversation delves into the workbook's structure, the significance of illustrations, and the feedback received from parents and the community.
Anna emphasizes the pressing challenges children face today, particularly regarding anxiety, and offers insights on how to support them effectively.
 
Here's Anna's website Anna Scetinina – Registered Psychotherapist – Author
Here's the link, with previews to the book A Workbook for Kids Who Worry – Anna Scetinina
Here's the link to the clinic she is part of Anna Scetinina, M.A., Registered Psychotherapist
You can follow Anna at:
Facebook @Anna Scetinina
LinkedIn @annascetinina
Instagram @annaactherapist
X: @AScetinina
TikTok: @anna.scetininaPinterest @AnnaScetinina
YouTube @annascetinina

Taking Pride in the Creations of the Artists' Coop

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre has a good conversation with Laurel Douglas Shugarman from the Artists Co-op in Richmond Hill.
They discuss the co-op's role in the local art community, the challenges and successes of the current season, and the importance of community engagement in the arts.
Laurel shares insights on sales trends, marketing strategies, and the diverse offerings of the Co-op, as well as the significance of workshops and accessibility for visitors.
The conversation concludes with Laurel's thoughts on global issues and the power of art to foster connection and understanding.
 
Check out their workshops EVENTS | Artists Coop Richmond Hill

Chasing Aliveness with Paper Pom-Poms. An Art Installation at the Richmond Hill Central Library.

In this conversation, Marj Andre speaks with Paula Hartman, a multidisciplinary artist known for her kinetic paper sculptures.
Paula shares her journey from being a dancer to becoming an artist, detailing how her experiences and cultural influences shape her work.
The discussion explores the emotional impact of art, upcoming exhibitions, and the how enriching the diversity is in the Greater Toronto Area.
 
Check out her website www.papapom.com

Connecting for Change: Michael Braithwaite on Youth Mental Health at Jack.org

In this conversation, Marj Andre speaks with Michael Braithwaite, CEO of Jack.org, about his journey in the social service sector and the mission of Jack.org to support youth mental health.
They discuss the importance of peer-to-peer support, the evolution of mental health awareness, and the various programs and resources Jack.org offers to empower young people.
Michael emphasizes the need for community engagement, prevention strategies, and the significance of fundraising events like the Jack Ride. The conversation concludes with reflections on the community's collaborative spirit and the impact of Jack.org's initiatives.
 
Check out Jack.org
Here's the info on the Be There Certificate
Interested in exerting yourself Jack Ride ?
Check out this Jack Amplified podcast on Spotify on Apple Podcasts or on YouTube
Michael can be reached at michael@jack.org
 
 
 
 
 

Empowering Young Musicians and Building Bridges Through Music: The York Region Youth Orchestra

In this conversation, Marj Andre speaks with Stella Song, the founder and artistic director of the York Region Youth Orchestra. They discuss Stella's musical background, the mission of the orchestra, the importance of community in music education, and the upcoming concert.
Stella emphasizes the orchestra's role in fostering a supportive environment for young musicians and the cultural bridge it creates within the diverse York Region community.
 
Click HERE for tickets for the December 6th Breath of Hope Benefit Concert 
Find out more about the York Region Youth Orchestra
Stella can be contacted at yryorche@gmail.com

The Salvation Army Kettle Campaign rings true to helping the community

In this conversation, Marj Andre talks with Krista Andrews and Courtney Drew of the Salvation Army in Richmond Hill, about this year's Kettle Campaign. 
The challenges of running this campaign are highlighted.  But also, the importance of being present and acknowledging others during the busy Christmas season.
They have a goal of raising $100,000 to support all of the good work they do in our community.
Manning the kettle offers meaningful connections and highlight the true spirit of the holidays.
 
Here's the link to sign up to volunteer on the kettle Kettle Application - The Salvation Army
If you would just like to donate, click HERE
Follow them on Facebook  www.facebook.com/rhcconline
Email -  richmondhill@salvationarmy.ca
 
And visit this website for more information about the Salvation Army www.salvationarmy.ca

Exploring Pottery Techniques. To be seen at the upcoming Hill Potters Sale

In this conversation, Minda Davis and Sherry Rossi, two of the very experienced potters from the Hill Potters Guild discusses pottery techniques, including firing pieces in a very hot kiln.
They want to make pottery that is functional and that is used. 
Minda and Sherry brag about their great community of potters.This year's Fall Hill Potter's Guild Fall Sale is November 28 to 30th.

A conversation about Christmas Music with the director of Chorus York

In this episode of the Connecting the Community podcast, Marj Andre speaks with John Holland, the music director of Chorus York, about the upcoming Choral Noël concert. They discuss the concert's unique pieces, including a Baroque Magnificat and a modern arrangement of Auld Lang Syne, as well as the process of selecting music for Christmas performances.
John shares insights into the importance of community engagement and the personal connections people have with Christmas music, highlighting the joy and challenges of choir performances.
Chorus York | Lifting your spirit through song
Click HERE to purchase tickets - Saturday, December 13th, 7:30 pm. 
 

Connecting Creators: The Roles of Arts in Community

The conversation highlights the importance of arts and culture in Richmond Hill, emphasizing the need for community groups to connect and collaborate.
Marj Andre discusses with two of the City of Richmond Hill's staff, Leanne DiMonte and Daria Ludwiczak, how the theatre and visual arts sectors are working to create networking opportunities for artists and creators, fostering both personal and professional relationships.
 
Check out their website for more details, including renting space,
Cultural Centre - City of Richmond Hill
 
Leanne and Daria can be reached at culture@richmondhill.ca