HEALTHY HOLYOKE
HEALTHY HOLYOKE – a series of three events over the weekend of November 20 and 21, for the community to learn about health issues and how they affect families and the city of Holyoke.
November 20, 8:30AM-1:30PM at the United Congregational Church: “Learner-Teacher day” for staff and students of Juntos Adult Education Collaborative classes.
November 20, 7:00PM at the United Congregational Church: “Sugar,” a one-woman performance by Robbie McCauley. Free and open to the public.
November 21, 10:30AM-1:00 PM, Holyoke Public Library: Story Circle Training session with Robbie McCauley, on the topic of Diabetes. Free and open to the public.
Adults who are learning English and those studying toward their GED will come together with their teachers to attend a morning of workshops and theater on November 20 at the United Congregational Church, on the corner of Appleton and Maple Streets. A dedicated committee made up of adult learners and teachers selected the most pressing health concerns of our community. The intent is also to acknowledge that many adult learners are parents. Therefore, the presenters will examine how the various health issues affect all members and generations in a family. Holyoke Health Center staff will give workshops on diabetes, asthma, nutrition and fitness, and smoking cessation. The Arena Civic Theatre will perform a short piece about the impact of these health concerns on families.
As part of Healthy Holyoke, community health advocates are happy to welcome Robbie McCauley and her play, “Sugar.” This performance piece tells of her experience as a woman-of-color with diabetes. Robbie is known for her ability to connect with her audience in a personal way. "I am not a scientist," says Ms. McCauley, "I am more interested in questions of truth, love and beauty. How might we transform the seduction and decay of sugar in this life, and still have some sweetness?" Her performance will be held at the United Congregational Church at 7:00PM. This event is free and open to the public. For additional information about story circles, http://www.racematters.org/storycircleprocess.htm
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The next day, November 21, at 10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at the Holyoke Public Library, Robbie McCauley will train the community to use Story Circles, a method of sharing stories that promote active listening and celebrate “being heard.” The topic is Diabetes. This event is free and open to the public. Space is limited so pre-registration is necessary. To register, please contact Carolyn Sadeh at the HALO Center, 534-2026.
