SETTING UP
The initial step in developing a Writing Circle Program is to approach
Senior Centre Co-ordinators or Directors to introduce your idea and objectives
for the introduction of writing circles for their clients. If a Centre is
interested in offering the program, investigate the following with the
director:
Is a private room or section of a large common room available for use?
Does this room or space have electrical outlets, VCR, television,
chalkboard, suitable tables and chairs, good lighting?
Is this room wheelchair accessible and in a quiet spot?
What type of a timetable for your program would fit into their existing
timetable?
Determine a designated day and time, start and end date for your
program. Consistency of day and time is very important for commitment and
attendance of the Seniors.
Ask for suggested names of enthusiastic Seniors who could become a
liaison and "spokesperson" to spread the word about the program in
the centres.
See if the Centre's intake forms for the prospective "clients"
indicate the educational levels of those Seniors. If this information is
available, make sure your access to it does not violate privacy. This
information, in advance, could assist in the planning of strategies and course
materials. In the centres in which I worked, this information was not included
on any intake forms. I gathered the information from participants after my
programs had begun.
Accumulate the following materials:
- portable whiteboard and pens
- flip chart paper and felt pens
- tape recorder and blank tapes
- stapler
- file folders
- paper clips
- sticky notes
- paper, pens, pencils
- coffee, tea, and goodies
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