A woodworking project at Great Lakes Secondary School (GLSS) will have a meaningful impact on those living with dementia and other cognitive impairments.
As part of a partnership with Bluewater Health, students in Mr. Siebert’s senior woodworking class recently designed and built three raised planter boxes and a set of cornhole boards for the Cognitively Complex Care Unit's outdoor patio space.
“This project is a wonderful example of what happens when schools and community organizations come together around a shared goal,” said Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) CEO Gary Girardi in a media release. “At LKDSB, we believe these partnerships are the heartbeat of our schools."
The 24-bed Cognitively Complex Care Unit offers therapeutic outdoor programming where patients can be immersed in a calming environment and spend time with family.
“We are grateful to the students of Mr. Siebert’s Senior Woodworking class for designing and building the planters and surprising us with the cornhole boards," said Bluewater Health Foundation Executive Director Kathy Alexander. "These items will make such a difference to the patients on the Cognitively Complex Care Unit. What a wonderful example of kindness in action!”
Hospital staff said an existing raised garden bed had offered patients an opportunity to socialize and perform tasks, so the addition of three more boxes will provide more individuals with the chance to garden.
"These opportunities promote purpose, engagement, dignity, and connection, while creating a welcoming environment for patients and families to enjoy together,” said Bluewater Health Director of Rehabilitation Services, Stroke, Geriatrics and Rural Health Paula Gilmore.
The LKDSB said the project also provided students with the opportunity to apply their skills and give back to the community.
