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Volunteer Opportunity: Support a Talented Elderly Artist & Activist in Burien, WA
Are you passionate about art, community, and supporting elderly individuals? We have a meaningful volunteer opportunity for you to connect with a remarkable person and assist him in expressing his thoughts and experiences.
Location:
168th Street, Burien, WA 98148
About the Participant: Our participant is a distinguished artist, activist, and community leader who has lived a rich and impactful life. he had a strong upbringing. he became an influential figure in the African American community. He studied painting under renowned artist Jacob Lawrence at the University of Washington and was an outspoken civil rights activist.
Notably, he played a key role in the movement to create the Northwest African American Museum by occupying the Colman School in Seattle to prevent its demolition, eventually leading to the establishment of the African American Heritage Museum and Cultural Center.
he has expressed a desire for a volunteer who can help him write down his thoughts. He often says, "I have a lot on my mind," and is seeking someone to assist with this process, allowing him to share and preserve his experiences.
About the Volunteer Role: As a volunteer, you will provide support in writing down his thoughts, reflections, and stories. This is an opportunity to connect with a person of deep history and insight, helping him articulate and document his life and perspectives.
Key Responsibilities:
* Assist with writing down the participant’s thoughts, stories, and reflections.
* Provide gentle encouragement for him to express his ideas, especially when word-finding becomes challenging due to his communication difficulties.
* Help him organize his thoughts for any potential projects or creative work he may wish to pursue.
* Foster a supportive, patient, and understanding relationship with the participant, ensuring he feels heard and valued.
Participant Details:
* Uses a wheelchair for most mobility but can use a walker for short distances.
* Independent in most activities of daily living (ADLs).
* Generally pleasant and engaging, though occasionally frustrated by communication challenges related to a stroke (CVA).
* Displays flat affect and some hesitancy in responses but is oriented to self and place.
* Can meet his own needs but would benefit from help in articulating his thoughts and preserving his legacy.
Volunteer Skills and Qualities:
* Compassionate and patient demeanor.
* Strong listening and writing skills.
* Respectful of the participant’s experiences and personal history.
* Comfortable assisting with communication challenges.
* Interest in art, civil rights, or history is a plus but not required.
This is a unique and fulfilling opportunity to support a deeply inspiring individual who has contributed significantly to his community. If you enjoy working with elders, have a passion for writing, and are interested in learning from someone with a lifetime of stories and experiences, we would love to hear from you!
Contact us today to learn more and become a volunteer in Burien, WA!