Aimed at beginners who may have always wanted to try to draw but never attempted it, the group is encouraged to use their imagination and take the first step. We have been fortunate in occasionally being coached by an artist friend of one of our members.
Community Choir
Led by a professional musical director, our Community Choir meets every Friday morning in the Rainbow Centre from 10.00am to 11.00am. Open to anyone who has a passion for singing (members and non-members) the group welcomes everyone regardless of ability.
Recognising the joy and emotional well-being that singing can bring to an individual as well as the camaraderie experienced by group singing, the choir has developed and grown a reputation that has been demonstrated in performances at small local venues including St Vincent’s Hospice, The Glynhill Hotel, and the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley.
Writing Group
One of our most popular activities has been the Writing Group. Led by member Graham, already a published author, this small group of individuals has blossomed into a creative force. Encouraged to put pen to paper with ideas, stories (real or imagined), events, each person has created pieces of work which are not only imaginative but immensely readable. Inspired, and somewhat surprised by their own ability, these folks are a joy to see when they realise that their work is appreciated by their peers.
Art, Craft and Scrapbooking
The therapeutic advantages of concentrating on creating something for pleasure are well documented. At Rays of Hope we have witnessed the success of spending time focused in three particular areas.
Art
Craft
This group has produced a variety of beautiful objects to take home. Everything from painted plant pots, rag wreaths, garden clocks, felt animals to painted rocks, and decorations for all festive occasions. Often, they are sold to raise the all-important funds for Rays of Hope.
Scrapbooking
As the name suggests this group creates books to record precious memories both for themselves and for an archive for Rays of Hope. That includes press cuttings, photos and everything that shows visually an up to date collage of activities involving the membership.
Hand Massage
Specialising in hand massage, one of our members is a qualified massage therapist who, through a short session can lead you through the therapeutic benefits of massage.
Perfect for those people who struggle with:
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Muscular and joint pain
- Headaches
- Effects of cancer treatment
- Emotional grief
Boxes of Hope
Recognising the difficulties endured through the cancer experience whether it be surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or even hospital appointments themselves, Rays of Hope gathered information on items that could be beneficial to patients. These included fragrance-free body care products to combat dry skin; lip balm; a book to read or colouring book to use while waiting for an appointment, mini fans, some hard sweets to relieve the tannic taste of treatment. As a result products were sourced and donated so that “boxes of Hope” could be packaged by our members and delivered to clinics at the RAH in Paisley or gifted to patients via their specialist nurse.... all with love from everyone at Rays of Hope.
Cooking Demonstrations
Rays of Hope has the unique feature of having available what we like to call, our “Resident Chef”. One of our original members, Bob, delights his audience with good old fashioned recipes that include a variety of delicious fare ranging from his well-loved Mac N’ Cheese to his renowned Scottish Tablet. His demonstrations are not only informative but always delivered with relaxed style and a sense of humour.
Transforming Lives and Instilling Hope in the Community
If you would like further information, please contact us today!
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