Creating an inclusive community through drumming

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By Emma Swanson Times Reporter

For the past 15 years, creating an inclusive community within Wheatland County has been the mission of Hope Bridges Society through programs such as Adaptive Drumming.
Adaptive Drumming, a therapeutic drumming program is “reestablishing the fundamental need for community networks, at a grassroots level,” said Adaptive Drumming coordinator and music therapist Jesse Dollimont.
On the first and third week of every month, 20 to 25 adults have gathered to play drums in the volunteer-led program.
“It’s not just about drumming,” said Dollimont, who added she believes music therapy also “creates meaningful social connections.
“We all have spaces and places where we engage in and experience social barriers for connection; this can be a real challenge for any person because as people, we are built for connection.
“All of the Hope Bridges Society programs create access to a community with as few social barriers as possible,” Dollimont added.
The Hope Bridges Society hosts an annual Artists Among Us Gala and Fundraiser event that features stage performances from participants of Adaptive Drumming and other programs.
“I’ve seen participants blossom as performers and musicians; it’s incredibly inspiring,” said Dollimont.
Rhonda Bruce, who coordinated Adaptive Drumming last year, said Hope Bridges Society is “based on connections between adults, through art.
“Adaptive Drumming is inclusive of all adults,” said Bruce, “I really enjoyed the connections I made with all participants.
“We live with segregation in our society but Adaptive Drumming doesn’t have these boundaries; we’re all in the same program and that’s what makes us unique,” said Bruce.
To promote Adaptive Drumming, Hope Bridges Society has distributed posters three times a year within the community and has also posted information about Adaptive Drumming on their website at www.hopebridges.ca.
Hope Bridges Society is a non-profit organization that “relies on the generosities of the community and organizations” through donations that “play a huge role,” said Bruce.
The board of Hope Bridges Society is operated by five volunteer members and all programs are led by volunteers.
“We’re a small board that’s all very dedicated towards our whole vision and mission,” said Bruce.
The Adaptive Drumming program is postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic “until it is safe to resume,” said Bruce.