Empowering Generations.
Opening Minds.

The arts connect us all, no matter the age.

Our Mission

The Arts & Aging Network (previously known as Old School Intergenerational Projects) is a Newfoundland and Labrador-based charitable organization that enriches the lives of older individuals through creative expression, fostering empowerment and intergenerational connections.

We offer innovative arts programs and performances that promote inclusivity, enhance understanding, and celebrate the transformative power of the arts in addressing the challenges of aging and dementia.

Get to Know Us

Old School Bus

Make art, paint the bus, sing with us, or play a game from our collection! The creative possibilities are endless. When will the bus be in your neighbourhood?

Learn More

Music

Music helps strengthen social connections, evoking emotion and/or memory while providing an outlet for expression.

Learn More

Storytelling

We proudly participate in the GrandPals program, which connects students to older adults to engage in conversations and learning through storytelling.

Learn More

Theatre

Our performances are designed to reach audiences in a non-traditional setting, featuring professional performers and paving the way for future intergenerational performance opportunities.

Learn More

Training

We use arts-based approaches to enhance connections with others, focusing on understanding dementia and providing tools for facilitators, caregivers, and arts and dementia advocates.

Learn More

Presentations

Our presentations can be tailored to different groups, offering insights about the Arts and Aging Network, ways to get involved, and brief introductions to dementia engagement.

Learn More

How to Get Involved

I'm a senior looking to connect with others in my community

I'm interested in volunteering with The Arts & Aging Network

I'd like to show my support with a donation

Our Friends

We couldn't do what we do without the wonderful partnerships and friendships we've made throughout the years. Check out some of our community partners below!

Meet our Network

Follow us on Instagram

What an exciting day we had yesterday - thank you to everyone who participated at the St. John's Farmers' Market!!! We collected gifts and monetary donations for Secret Santa for Seniors and made cards with Caring Cards NL! At the end we arranged Santa to come by for a visit - he even dropped the bus back off to our warehouse - what a guy!
A huge thank you to ALL volunteers who helped out during the day, especially Michelle Carew for taking the lead!

We are loving all the partnerships!!! 🩷

There is still time to donate!! Please DM us if you would like to know how to get donations to us 😊

#ArtsandAging #CommunityLove #TogetherWeCare #GiveBack #SecretSantaForSeniors #CaringCardsNL #SpreadTheJoy #MakingADifference #SupportSeniors #ChristmasCheer #HolidayGiving #AgingWithArt #ArtsForAll #CommunityEvents #CommunityEngagement #CreativeAging #santavisit #oldschoolbus #stjohnsfarmersmarket #cityofstjohns

🌟Introducing... our GrandPals Coordinator, Michelle Carew! 🌟
We are so lucky to have Michelle's vibrant personality as a part of our team, although she coordinates the GrandPals Program, she assists with our programs, and performs too!
_______________
Michelle Carew is an active teacher and performer who believes the classroom and the stage inspire the same energy and imagination in order to captivate the audience.

Her favourite part of being on any stage is making that sincere connection with those in front of her... Michelle’s roots are in Bay de Verde, NL, where her father, Ray Walsh, fostered her love of music. She is a singer with The Walsh Family Band whose credits include the recording and release of three albums as a way to preserve their musical heritage. She sings Lead in Close Quarters, the first and only ladies barbershop quartet from Newfoundland Labrador to place first at the Atlantic Area Competition. Both of these groups regularly perform at concerts, conferences, senior residences and private events. Other highlights on stage have been her roles in numerous local musicals.

Whether it’s working with children, seniors or those in between, Michelle hopes to create an engaging environment with a warm welcome.

We’re thrilled to share that we’re in our third week at Kenny's Pond Retirement Home with the Music of Your Life Program! 🎶 Next week will be our final session before Christmas, but we’re looking forward to more chances to bring the joy of music and arts to our friends there again in the new year.

✨ Upcoming Event! ✨
Join us for a special Music of Your Life session at A.C. Hunter Library on Tuesday, December 10th, from 10:30-11:30 am. This is a public session designed to reach
seniors living independently, including people living with dementia, their loved ones, and caregivers.

No cost to attend! Register now with the Alzheimer Society of Newfoundland and Labrador, Inc. via phone or email.

🌟Introducing.... our Sunshine Singer Coordinator and Program Assistant, Kara Noftle! 🌟
Kara has been instrumental in the success of the Arts and Aging Networks programs and performances. We are grateful for her beautiful and compassionate heart!
________
Kara holds a BA from Memorial University in Sociology, Psychology & Criminology. She has worked & volunteered for a number of community organizations including Waypoints,

The John Howard Society & The Gathering Place. After 8 years as a Child & Youth Care worker, Kara focused her sights on the stage!

She has been performing with Spirit of Newfoundland Productions since 2014. Other local stage credits include RENT, Hairspray, Scrooge, Sister Act, Our Divas Do Christmas, Les Misérables, Anything Goes, Avenue Q, “It's Now or Never” & “ Get Rhythm”.

This Christmas season, you can see her in Our Divas Do Christmas (Tada Events), A Classic Christmas (Magic Storm Events) & The 12 Bays of Christmas (Spirit of Newfoundland Productions).

She began working with The Arts & Aging Network this past summer. Her first project was performing in ”By the Sea”, a dementia-inclusive, sensory performance, for seniors in long-term care homes. Now she is working in other capacities within the organization. Kara is excited to see what other opportunities arise as the programs continue to evolve.

We’re thrilled to support our friend Gabrielle Dupont with her Secret Santa for Seniors initiative! For the third year, Gabby is working hard to gather donated gifts to bring holiday cheer to seniors this Christmas. 🎁🎄

Join the A&A Team on Saturday, November 30, at St. John's Farmers' Market on Freshwater Road from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. You’ll find us aboard the Old School Bus, where you can drop donations/gifts and even create a handmade card with our friends from Caring Cards NL. These thoughtful cards will be paired with the gifts to brighten the holidays for our senior community. ❤️✨

#SecretSantaForSeniors #SpreadTheJoy #CommunityLove #HolidayGiving #SupportSeniors #CaringCardsNL #GiveBack #TogetherWeCare
#ChristmasCheer #MakingADifference #ArtsandAging

🌟Introducing... our Treasurer, Nicole Miller!🌟
In an unconventional way of connecting, we found Nicole. Along with her accounting skills, she brings her big heart to our board table. It certainly feels serendipitous!
----
Nicole brings to us her 20+ years of financial and strategic leadership as a Chartered Professional Accountant. She is a proud Newfoundlander who has worked in both Toronto and Ireland before returning home to Newfoundland. Nicole has had the opportunity to work in public practice (with KPMG as well as with Grant Thornton and Noseworthy Chapman) as well as industry (Nalcor, Choices for Youth, Dentsu Canada). These roles provided exceptional opportunities to lead dynamic teams, collaborate with exciting business partners and develop key relationships with stakeholders. Nicole’s passion for the Arts and Aging is based on her own life experiences that have proven the deep connection that can be shared across generations. She counts herself lucky to still have two great aunts and one grandmother in her life – all aged in their late 90’s and even one who is 104! These trail-blazing women have demonstrated the joy that comes with art, music and theatre throughout their lives and their enthusiasm has been
contagious.

Nicole has mostly recently opened her own accounting firm, using her diverse background and professional experiences to help individuals and businesses navigate their financial journey and support their growth and success. She is thrilled to join the Arts and Aging Network as a board member and volunteer to support the extraordinary work it does, sharing and caring across generations through the arts!

🌟Introducing... our Secretary, Karen Dwyer!🌟

With a very impressive resume and a vast skill set, we are so pleased to have Karen join our team!
----
Karen Dwyer has a BSc and MSc from Memorial University and is a biologist with Fisheries and Oceans Canada. She has been a public servant for over 20 years, and has been involved with science communications and the media for the past number of years. She has many years of experience chairing meetings, including international Regional Fisheries Management Organizations.

A summer job in high school had her working with some elderly clients at a nursing home in Carbonear and it was so fulfilling she considered going into geriatric care after graduation from high school. Still, the pull of science was too strong! Karen plays the flute and also considered a degree (very briefly) in music, but again, decided to go the science route instead.

Nonetheless, Karen still has an interest in music (especially musical theatre) and how it can improve the lives of the elderly and others. She admires the work of the Arts and Aging Network and is excited to contribute to being a board member.

🌟Introducing... Damian Stacey of our Board of Directors! 🌟
We have witnessed Damian demonstrate skill, warmth, and kindness in his work, and we are overjoyed to have him share that on our team.
-----
Damian Stacey is dedicated to enriching the lives of seniors through creative and engaging recreation programs. With a diploma in Community Recreation Leadership and extensive experience facilitating activities, Damian thrives on building connections and learning from the wisdom of others. As the youngest board member, he is eager to gain insights from experienced individuals from all walks of life. One of the most rewarding aspects of his work is witnessing how music can light up even the quietest individuals, whether through a simple foot tap or a smile

Today, we honour the bravery and sacrifices of our veterans. At the Arts and Aging Network, we are privileged to work alongside older adults, many of whom are veterans or have deep personal connections to those who served. Their stories inspire us every day. On Remembrance Day, we remember, we honour, and we thank them for their service.

#RemembranceDay #Veterans #ArtsAndAging #HonorAndRemember

🌟Introducing... Renell LeGrow of our Board of Directors!🌟

With Renell’s background as a journalist and her unwavering love for people in her life of all ages, she has offered us knowledge, kindness, and support since the very first board meeting in 2021.
-—
An award-winning journalist with extensive experience covering all aspects of local news for 15+ years, Renell brings to the Board an unbiased understanding of current social and economic strengths and challenges, with a keen interest in understanding the goals and possibilities of community and human connection. After spending over a decade with VOCM radio, followed by two years in the non-profit sector, Renell is now a business reporter with allNewfoundlandLabrador.

Renell has been a Board member with the network since it’s inception, serving as secretary for the past three terms.

In addition to her love of writing, Renell dabbles in art of all forms. She lives in Pouch Cove with her husband, two boys and cat.

How wonderful to spend the day surrounded by creative folks including one of my favourite lads @lasbybomb !!

Big thanks to @businessandartsnl for this opportunity along with my incredible Grow to Lead mentorship. You are bringing wonderful opportunities to the community. Today’s speakers were inspiring and brought so much knowledge and wisdom forward. It was certainly a day to remember!

#community #businessandarts #sectoroverlaps #charity #artsandagingwork #intergenerationalconnections #therapeuticarts #somuchhappening #networking #education #creativity #innovation

🌟Introducing.. our Vice Chair, Cyril Bonia!🌟

We are delighted to have Cyril bring his expertise forward to contribute to our success!
----
Cyril is an accomplished business leader with over 20 years of experience in operations within highly regulated national organizations. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce, an MBA, as well as the Facilities Management Professional designation. Throughout his career, Cyril has led teams in Human Resources, Contact Centres, IT (procurement and services management), Corporate Services, Real Estate, Strategy and Facility Management. Prior to joining Seafair, he served as the COO of a healthcare company with operations across Canada.
As the current Chief Operating Officer at Brightisle, Cyril provides operational oversight for the organization and has streamlined policies and processes across the group of companies. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Cyril is a strong believer in giving back to the community. He has served on several volunteer boards, including the Memorial University Board of Regents, Eastern Edge Credit Union, Credit Counselling Services of Newfoundland and Labrador (where he served as Chair), and the Conception Bay Area Chamber of Commerce. Cyril’s extensive experience in operations, coupled with his commitment to giving back, make him a well-rounded leader who is dedicated to making a positive impact in both the professional and community spheres.

🌟Introducing... Zachary Johnson of our Board of Directors!🌟

We have seen Zach in action many times over the years, and we couldn't ask for a more kindhearted person to join our board!

Zachary Johnson, a husband and father originally from Dunfield, Trinity Bay, is a recreation therapist with more than eight years of experience in senior care. He has provided therapeutic recreation programs for long-term care facilities such as Chancellor Park and retirement communities. Currently, he manages the recreation programs at Kenny's Pond and Tiffany Village. Zachary strives to create a compassionate and empathetic atmosphere when delivering programs and activities to benefit an individual holistically.

🌟Introducing... Alysa O'Keefe of our Board of Directors!🌟

We can't believe how lucky we are to have Alysa bring her wealth of knowledge to us - plus not everyone can say they have a singing lawyer on their board ;)
-----
Alysa O’Keefe is an Associate Lawyer at Cox & Palmer, specializing in estate planning and administration. With a Juris Doctor and a Health Law Certificate from the Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University, she has developed experience in drafting wills, powers of attorney and advance health care directives, as well as preparing probate petitions and court applications for estate disputes.

Her dedication to serving elderly clients stems from her experience working in her parents’ pharmacy as an assistant, where she had the privilege of working closely with seniors. These experiences have deepened her appreciation for the unique needs of elderly individuals and instilled in her a strong commitment to ensuring their wishes are honored. This passion ultimately led her to pursue a career as a wills and estates lawyer, where she can advocate for their rights and assist them in securing their legacies.

An active member of her community, Alysa serves on the Board of Directors for the Quintessential Vocal Ensemble and sings with the group as a chorister. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance (Honours) from Memorial University.

🌟 Introducing... Suzanne Brake of our Board of Directors! 🌟
We are beyond grateful to have Suzanne's wealth of experience guide us as we grow!
Dr. Suzanne Brake (BSW ’79); MSW (’98); PhD (2010) has a lengthy history of involvement in the area of aging and seniors. She has clinical, managerial, administrative, teaching, research and policy experience. In 2015, Dr. Brake was awarded the Canadian Association of Social Workers Distinguished Service Award. Her past work, volunteer experiences, education, personal involvement with family contributed to her roles as Director, Seniors and Aging Division; Provincial Director, Adult Protection, and Seniors’ Advocate. More recently Dr. Brake contributed to the development of the Social Prescribing Project as Coordinator during 2023-24.

🌟 Introducing... our Chair, Aimee Coles! 🌟
We are so blessed to have her skills and passion!

Aimee is a passionate Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) working in community recreation and municipal government. With a Bachelor of Recreation from Memorial University, Aimee brings a vibrant blend of expertise in community-based programming and a deep commitment to fostering inclusive community wellness.

When she’s not diving into projects or leading programs, you’ll find her co-directing alongside the incredible team at Courtney Fowler Performance Academy (CFPA), bringing creative visions to life on stage. Oh, and somewhere in there, she’s also rocking the new mom life (coffee is most definitely involved).
As an ambitious leader, Aimee is excited to serve as Chair of the Board, aiming to level up collaborative initiatives and support meaningful intergenerational initiatives that reflect the evolving needs of the community. She firmly believes the best work happens when arts, wellness, and community come together and is eager to join the Arts and Aging Network!

🌟 Exciting News! 🌟

We’re thrilled to announce that Old School Intergenerational Projects will now be known as The Arts and Aging Network! Our programs will remain the same but as our work continues to evolve, we feel this new name better encompasses the scope of our services and the positive changes we are committed to making in our province.

We’re still navigating this transition, and we truly appreciate your support as we work through these changes. Stay tuned for updates on our services and initiatives!

Thank you for being part of our journey! 🎨✨

#ArtsAndAging #Community #IntergenerationalConnections #CreativeAging #ArtsForAll #AgingWell #CommunityEngagement #LifelongLearning #CulturalExchange #DementiaEducation #DementiaEducation

It’s been a busy week with lots of driving!

Our Executive Director, Erin Winsor, has visited schools, community groups and long term care homes in a variety of places such as Eastport, Glovertown, Gander, Springdale, Corner Brook… and still 5 more days to go! #dementiaeducation #agingeducation #artsengagement #musicofyourlifeworkshops #lovewhatwedo #intergenerationalopportunities #presentations #workshops #trainings

🌟 Happy Senior's Day to all our amazing friends over 55! We’re so grateful to have you in our lives. To celebrate, we’re hosting a CONTEST! 🎉 We’re giving away two tickets to the Magic Storm Events’ "Get Rhythm" show on Nov 2 and 3, featuring Darrin Martin and Kara Noftle.

Here’s how to enter:
1. Like our Facebook or Instagram page. @oldschoolipnl
2. Share this post.
3. Tag the friend you’d take with you if you win!

The draw will be held one week from today - October 8!

Please be cautious of any scam messages about winning; we will only contact the winner from this account! Good luck! 🌟

Kara Noftle is helping to jazz up our office space a little! Our favourite piece so far is by our friend, Leah Desiree McDonald! We love it!

#ArtInTheOffice #SupportLocalArtists #CreativeCommunity #ArtForAll #InclusionThroughArt #ColorfulSpaces #ArtAppreciation

🎉 Happy Arts and Aging Day, Canada! 🎶

This morning, our office became a musical museum as our Executive Director, Erin Winsor, led a wonderful virtual session filled with music and memories!

A big thank you to Kate Dupuis and her team for organizing Arts and Aging Day and inviting us to join in the festivities! Now we’re off to The Neighbourhood Day Program for tea, hats, and more music!

#ArtsAndAgingDayCA #IntergenerationalConnections #CelebrateCreativity #NationalConnections #SheridanCollege #Alumni

🎉 Arts and Aging Day Canada is tomorrow! 🎉

This is how we are celebrating!!

How about you? Fill your day with creativity, music, and connection!

Check out all virtual opportunities including Erin's 'Music of Your Life' Session at: https://the-ria.ca/events/arts-and-aging-day/

💖✨ #ArtsAndAging #MusicOfYourLife #HighTeaAndHats #CommunityLove #CelebrateCreativity

🎉 Happy 90th Birthday to our wonderful GrandPal, Teresa! 🎉 We're so excited to have you back in our GrandPals program for a second time. You’re a true gem and the ultimate 'downtown girl'! 💖 We love you so much! Enjoy your special day! 🥳✨ #HappyBirthday #GrandPals #Celebrating90Years #ArtsandAging #CelebrateLife #IntergenerationalConnections #GrandpalsProgram

A quick glance over our last fiscal year; our AGM will last about 20-30 minutes!

🚍✨ A few weeks ago, we had the most joyful visit to Kingsway Baccaeliu in Old Perlican, but our departure was unexpectedly delayed by some bus troubles. Huge shoutout to the incredible community who came to our rescue! Scott, Chris, and Joseph from Coish's Trucking and Excavating Ltd. truly saved the day and got us back on the road. 🙌

While we had a longer stay than planned, the warm hospitality from the Kingsway crowd was amazing—they even fed us! 🍽️ And just to add a bit of humour to our day, Michelle, one of our facilitators, cheekily stuck a poster from the home on our bus dashboard with a funny edit. Let’s just say we had quite a laugh on the way home! 😄

Fast forward to this weekend: Our Executive Director, Erin Winsor, took a trip to CBN to visit family and decided to deliver a thank you in person to those who helped us out. Although the b'ys were away, we had the pleasure of meeting Dana Coish, the secretary for the business. It was the perfect way to show our appreciation!

Thank you, once again, to everyone who made our trip memorable and stress-free. We’re so grateful for your support and kindness! ❤️👏

#CommunityHeroes #ThankYou #BusTroublesTurnedIntoGoodTimes

.pro-gallery-wix-wrapper {display: block !important;} .pro-gallery-wix-wrapper .gallery-item-container {opacity: 1 !important; display: block !important;}

@artsandaging

Empowering Generations. Opening Minds.

Our Mission

Old School Bus

Music

Storytelling

Theatre

Training

Presentations

How to Get Involved

Our Friends

Follow us on Instagram

​

Empowering Generations.
Opening Minds.