Creative Connections: St. Barnabas Launches A New Ministry for Families Affected by Dementia
Through music, movement, and community, we're excited to begin offering sacred spaces where hope flourishes and every person—regardless of their cognitive journey—knows they are valued and embraced. The Creative Connections program reaffirms our belief that no family should face dementia alone.
What is Creative Connections?
Creative Connections is a comprehensive program that combines two vital components:
Music and Movement for Individuals with Dementia
This interactive program welcomes individuals with dementia at any stage, providing opportunities for connection and expression through creativity. Led by certified music therapists, participants engage in meaningful activities designed to enhance quality of life and maintain cognitive and physical abilities.
Caregiver Support Groups
While their loved ones participate in music and movement activities, caregivers have the opportunity to connect with others who understand their journey. These facilitated support groups provide essential resources, emotional support, and a sense of community during challenging times.
Our Partnership with the Giving Voice Foundation
Through our collaboration with The Giving Voice Foundation, we are bringing this transformative program directly to St. Barnabas. The foundation provides all professional support staff, including music therapists and caregiver support group facilitators, while participant screening and evaluation services are offered through their partnership with Catholic Charities.
After hosting a Music in Motion event in March 2025, we knew immediately that St. Barnabas would be the perfect home for this ministry. However, with The Giving Voice Foundation's expansion schedule already including new locations in 2025 and 2026, we would have had to wait until 2027 to join the program due to the financial requirements for launching new sites.
Making It Happen
Thanks to encouragement from Rev. Jane, we decided to pursue the Faith in Life Grant through the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Ohio. Our application, submitted in June, requested funding to accelerate our timeline and bring this needed ministry to our community immediately.
On August 12, 2025, we received incredible news: St. Barnabas was awarded the maximum grant amount of $10,000. Even before receiving grant approval, our Vestry demonstrated their commitment to this ministry by approving $3,750 to fund the first 10-week session, allowing us to move forward with planning. With this financial support in place we are launching this program on October 8, 2025 at St. Barnabas.
Creative Connections
When: Every Wednesday from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Where: St. Barnabas Great Hall and Chapel of the Rose
Capacity: 10-15 couples (caregivers and their dementia partners)
Caregivers - Register Here: Creative Connections
How You Can Help
This meaningful ministry serves not only our St. Barnabas community but also our surrounding neighbors. The Giving Voice Foundation provides all dementia care professionals, but they would appreciate our help with volunteers who can serve as hosts during program sessions.
Volunteer Commitment:
10-week sessions on Wednesday mornings (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
Welcome participants and families
Provide directions to restrooms and facilities
Assist facilitators as needed
First Session Dates:
October 8 - December 10
Get Involved:
An overview and training session will take place on September 5 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM in the Great Hall at St. Barnabas. If you feel called to this ministry, please contact Kara Shay Thomson in your Realm Connect Member Directory or contact the church office.
Caring for One Another
Creative Connections represents more than just a program—it's an expression of our church's commitment to supporting families during some of life's most challenging moments. Through music, movement, and community connection, we're creating a space where both individuals with dementia and their caregivers can find joy, support, and hope.
We invite you to join us in making this vision a reality.
Learn More
The Giving Voice Foundation - How it all began
Creative Connections - Learn more and Register.
The Three Amigos - through this fantastic video, witness how this program impacts everyone involved.
