Last month, during HSCA’s weekly Sip ‘n’ Chat, participants said farewell to Community Connections Coordinator, Reiko. Participants and staff shared their heartfelt appreciation and parting words over sweets and a warm beverage in HSCA’s Hearth room. Reiko has shared that one of her primary objectives was to ensure people felt welcomed, supported, and included (HSCA’s 2023 Annual Report). Reiko joined the HSCA team last summer to cover Shaye’s parental leave and will be moving on to a new opportunity. During her time at HSCA, Reiko led our Neighbour Night, Tuesday’s Sip ‘n’ Chat, and Monday’s Sustainable Food Program. Although we’re all very excited for Reiko’s next adventure, we will miss her compassion, enthusiasm, and, of course, her impressive origami skills that she has shared across programming and around the centre. Thank you for making a lasting impact on our community, Reiko!
More About Sip ‘n’ Chat
Sip ‘n’ Chat runs every Tuesday from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at HSCA. The weekly program offers a casual, low-committal, drop-in format where all are welcome. The connections and relationships that participants make in the Hearth room have sprouted and extended far beyond the walls of HSCA. “Participants have truly created a network of support,” says Reiko.
Sip ‘n’ Chat’s Basket of Questions
Community members often connect and chat using “the basket of questions”. Just like it sounds, “the basket of questions” is a basket full of questions or talking points for participants to pull from to break the ice and promote conversation. Read one participant’s experience below.
“One person picks a question out of the basket, answer(s) it, and paper is passed around so everyone present gets a chance to answer. This has resulted in unbelievable discussions! Everyone answers from their perspectives, and this often leads to many interesting facets of our lives being discussed! The coffee, tea, and goodies, oranges always included is a highlight for those with food insecurity! However, everyone enjoys these treats! This group works so well, because it involves all age groups! I believe this is one of the keys to its success. We also come from many different countries and many different cultures. This enriches our discussions and opens our minds to new horizons! Of course, all good groups are led by good leaders. Thank you for all your hard work, Reiko.” – 2023 Sip ‘n’ Chat participant.
Check out our program and recreation calendar for a full list of activities, programs, and events at www.hsca.ca/programsrecreationcalendar including the return of Neighbour Night. Neighbour Night dates and details will be posted as soon as they are available.
Click here to the Hillhurst Community News home page for the latest Hillhurst community updates.
Click here to the Sunnyside Community News home page for the latest Sunnyside community updates.
