Contracted Work
Working with the
Arts and Aging Network
The Arts and Aging Network is committed to creating meaningful professional opportunities for artists across Newfoundland and Labrador whenever possible. Our programs rely on artists who are not only talented in their craft, but who also share our values of creativity, compassion, inclusion, and collaboration in line with person-led engagement.
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Because our work often takes place in long-term care homes, personal care homes, schools, and community settings, we have a responsibility to ensure everyone representing the organization is prepared to work safely, respectfully, and in alignment with the Arts and Aging Approach. For that reason, all prospective contractors follow an application process similar to our volunteer process.
We understand there are several steps involved, and we do our best to make the experience as straightforward and supportive as possible.
Contractor Application Process
Individuals interested in becoming facilitators, performers, workshop leaders, or other contracted artists may be asked to complete the following process:
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1. Submit a Contractor Application by reaching out to info@artsandaging.com with your resume
2. Participate in an audition, interview, or portfolio review (depending on the role).
3. Provide references and complete a Police Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check, where required.
4. Complete all required agreements, policies, and organizational forms.
5. Participate in orientation and any required training.
6. Be added to our pool of approved artists and facilitators.
7. Be contacted when suitable contract opportunities become available.
Training
Many of our programs require artists to complete our Arts and Aging Approach with Dementia Sensitivity and Engagement Training.
This interactive training explores:
Understanding dementia and its impact on communication and behaviour.
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Building empathy through experiential learning.
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Creative, person-led approaches to meaningful engagement.
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Adapting language, body language, and communication to foster genuine connection.
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The values and philosophy that guide every Arts and Aging Network program.
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This training is required for anyone facilitating programs in long-term care or personal care settings.
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For artists supporting school programs, bus visits, community events, or other initiatives, the full dementia training may not be required. However, all contractors will receive an orientation specific to their role and will be introduced to the Arts and Aging Approach before participating in programs.
Starting as a Volunteer
In some cases, individuals interested in future contract opportunities may first be invited to volunteer with one of our programs.
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This allows both you and our team to become familiar with one another, learn the Arts and Aging Approach in practice, and ensure the role is a good fit. It also means much of the required paperwork, orientation, and training will already be completed if a paid opportunity becomes available, allowing contracts to begin more quickly.
Volunteering does not guarantee future employment, but it can be a valuable pathway into facilitating with the Arts and Aging Network.
Please
Note!
Submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance as either a volunteer or a contracted artist.
Each application is reviewed carefully based on the needs of the organization, the skills and experience of the applicant, and alignment with our values and approach. We may also consider current program availability, geographic location, and organizational priorities.
Because contract opportunities are limited and depend on funding and program demand, there may not be an immediate opportunity available, even for successful applicants. Approved contractors may remain in our facilitator pool until a suitable position becomes available.
We sincerely appreciate your interest in working with the Arts and Aging Network and look forward to connecting with artists who are passionate about using creativity to build meaningful human connection.