Would you like to give back to your community, have fun, learn about the psychology of humour and join a group of wonderful people who all have the same goal?
Join The Kalamalka Caring Klowns and put a smile on your face as you help to put one on those you visit.
It begins with a workshop in April where participants will learn everything they need to know to become part of the world of caring clowns.
“This is a high quality and unique workshop,” said Carole Fawcett (aka Flower), who founded the group in May 1999. “This group was told by B.C.’s first paid therapeutic clown, Paul Hoosen, that they were the most professional group he had ever encountered.”
In 1999, Doris (Bubbles) Bensmiller teamed up with Fawcett and since then, they have trained hundreds of people in the art of therapeutic clowning.
“It might be fun, but we take it seriously,” said Fawcett, adding that therapeutic clowns are very different than circus clowns.
“Minimal makeup is used, costumes are fun, and clowns impact on the wellness of others in a quiet respectful manner,” she said.
Therapeutic clowns volunteer at the hospital, nursing homes, assisted living and other venues.
“They spread love, joy and help to put a smile on the face of those they meet.”
Workshop participants will receive a clown manual, a certificate and much more in their goody bag.
The workshop takes place April 18 and 19 in the education rooms at Vernon Jubilee Hospital. The cost is $125 before April 10 and $150 after that date. The workshop fee is to cover costs.
Registration is now open and is limited to 12 trainees. To register, please call Donna at 250-558-5923, Val at 250-549-1435 or Doris at 250-546-6396.
