Healthy Communities group planning program
RUMFORD – The River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition is planning to help launch a new program that would provide assistance for area elders by young people and others.
The coalition also heard details about the upcoming major cancer fund-raiser, Relay for Life, during a busy meeting filled with announcements of events soon to take place in the River Valley.
Patricia Duguay, coordinator of the coalition, said results of a survey conducted a couple of years ago showed that many senior citizens often have difficulty doing simple chores around their homes, such as changing light bulbs or raking lawns. At the same time, the state’s Communities for Children is looking for meaningful projects for young people.
She said a brainstorming session, facilitated by Communities for Children, is planned for April 22.
“We would like an ongoing system to help older people, to create a network to work with elders,” said Duguay, adding that area schools are also beginning to reinstate community service projects.
Diane Mitchell and Peggy Briggette, spokeswomen for the seventh annual Relay for Life fund-raiser, announced plans for the event May 21 and 22 at Hosmer Field.
The all-night event, beginning at 4:30 p.m. for cancer survivors, and 6 p.m. for fund-raising participants, is filled with a variety of activities. The two are soliciting teams of eight or more to walk during the night and day event.
Mitchell brought the Relay for Life to the Rumford area seven years ago. At that time, about 100 people took part and about $12,000 was raised. Last year, those figures increased to more than 500 participants and $55,000 raised. Much of the funds raised goes to cancer research, while some goes to help transport local cancer victims to treatment appointments.
Those who wish to form a team may call Mitchell at 364-8358 or Briggette at 562-7688 or 364-4611.
Other events sponsored by a program of the RVHCC announced this week include:
• An open house for the new coalition offices at 94 River St., beginning at noon on April 15.
• A spring fitness program sponsored by Project NOW kicks off at 5 p.m. Thursday, April 1, at Mountain Valley High School.
• The River Valley Arts Initiative potluck and meeting takes place at 4 p.m. April 1 at Rumford Public Library.
• The River Valley Creative Economy Forum takes place at 5:30 p.m. April 21 at a place to be announced.
• Earth Day will be celebrated on April 22 with a cleanup of the trail system at Hosmer Field.
All River Valley residents are invited to take part in any of the programs offered by the coalition.
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