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Welcome to our CSP Newsletter!

Click here for a printable version of our July Calendar 

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CSP Staff Directory


Rena, Director

612-655-9171


Supervisors

Tovah (ArtWorks)

612-916-5121 


Laura (NatureWorks)

612-590-2647


Specialists

Ashley,

Employment Coordinator

612-210-1393


Kate,

Mental Health

Professional

612-446-9119


Community

Coordinators

T'Adre (ArtWorks)

612-978-7714


Pam (NatureWorks)

612-532-1713


Lusu (FoodWorks)

612-978-7922


Wellness Coaches

Hilary (ArtWorks)

612-916-7928


Rupa (NatureWorks)

612-532-4939


Mary (FoodWorks)

612-499-7955


Peer Specialists

Rick (ArtWorks)

763-321-0222


Audrey (NatureWorks)

612-916-6163


Ari (FoodWorks)

612-449-5712

Member Spotlight: Ellie Kidder

CSP member Ellie Kidder is an artist, an advocate, and a proud member of the Deaf community. As an artist, she works with all types of media and techniques, including sculpture, drawing, sewing, and writing. Art is truly her first language, and she uses it to express herself clearly.


Before joining Avivo’s ArtWorks program, Ellie struggled to find an arts program that would accept her as a Deaf artist. Programs would treat her as though being Deaf was an insurmountably expensive barrier, since hiring an interpreter on a regular basis is a repetitive ongoing cost. Ellie was excluded from many opportunities, as well as the chance to connect with other artists.


In spite of this, Ellie holds great pride in belonging to the Deaf community. As she explains it, spelling the word “Deaf” with an uppercase “D” denotes the strength of Deaf community, culture, and history. Ellie doesn’t view herself as disabled. In fact, she compares being Deaf to being someone who speaks French in an English-speaking community: she just knows a different language and has a different culture.


Ellie’s pride in her Deaf identity overflows into her passion for diversity of all kinds. Ellie uses the word “oppressed” to describe the way diverse people are often treated, and she doesn’t shy away from the negativity associated with this word. She says that words like “marginalized” or “minority” are too small to express what members of oppressed communities must go through in this world. She is a strong advocate for social justice, and she constantly looks for ways to bring oppressed groups into the spotlight. She is very careful not to speak for these groups or to override them in any way.


According to Ellie, Avivo and Springboard for the Arts have changed her life. She now belongs to a community of other artists where she truly feels accepted. She says, “Coming here, I feel reborn. I have a passion and a hunger for art. Finally, I have a place to call my own and a connection to the art world. Here, I feel so much like an active artist. I feel like I can identify as an artist. They provide a safe place for me to grow.” Ellie wants CSP members to know that they don’t have to know American Sign Language to build a relationship with her or other Deaf people: “You just have to be welcoming and be accepting. Say, ‘I want to work with you.’ That’s it. That’s how we get this started.”


Pictured below: some of Ellie's artwork


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Announcements

Celebrate Pride with Avivo!

Avivo's LGBTQIA Affinity Group is hosting its 2022 Pride Celebration on Thursday, July 14. The Celebration is from 1:00 to 3:30 pm and will take place in the parking lot at 1900 Chicago Ave in Minneapolis. This event is open to staff, participants, and family. Please join us for free food, entertainment, community resource groups, and fun games!

Coming in August: Photovoice

Join Nourish & Flourish and the University of Minnesota Extension team for a fun and engaging Photovoice project. Help raise awareness for health and well-being needs in your community while also supporting the creation of tools for mental health organizations. Through the Photovoice project, members will have the opportunity to take photos and share about what they mean in a two-session workshop series. Participants will receive a $25 gift card for each session that they attend. All sessions will be at the Creekside Community Center (9801 Penn Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55431). Session 1 is August 18 from 12:00-1:00pm. Session 2 will be split into two groups, both in the afternoon on September 1. 


Stay tuned for more information and the sign-up link in August's newsletter.

Also in August: Crafting with Tami!

Mark your calendars! CSP member Tami will be leading an adorable sewing project on Mondays in August at the Grain Belt Studio. Learn to make your own stuffed animals! Details to come in next month's newsletter.

Farewell to the Online Calendar

CSP staff has decided to stop using the online version of our calendar due to limited use by members. Please use our pdf calendar (also linked above) to quickly access dates, times, and locations for July programming. The pdf calendar is easy to print or save to your phone or computer -- please ask CSP staff for help finding and saving it. We usually have printed copies available at CSP events, too.

CSP Community Gardening

The CSP is working on two community garden plots this summer -- one at 1825 Chicago Ave and one outside of the Grain Belt Studio in Northeast Minneapolis. Whether you already love working with plants or want to try something new, we'd love to have you join us in the gardens!


We are growing food, herbs, and flowers, and members can bring some of the harvest home with them. Work days will be announced about a week in advance due to varying weather conditions and the unpredictability of plant growth! Please contact Laura to sign up for the email list: laura.schwarz@avivomn.org.

Free Hot Meals on Weekdays

The CSP has free meals available every weekday between 11:30 am and 12:30 pm at 1825 Chicago Ave in Minneapolis. You'll find us handing out food from the gazebo on the corner of Chicago Ave and E 19th Street. Regarding dietary restrictions: We don't serve pork, but the meals do usually contain meat and gluten.

Sign up for Camp Knutson

CSP members are invited to attend Camp Knutson from September 5 to 9, 2022. Camp Knutson is a fully accessible summer camp in Crosslake, Minnesota, located about 150 miles north of the Twin Cities and hosted by Lutheran Social Service. Participants will enjoy water sports, field games, crafting, nature-based activities, and more in a classic overnight camp setting. Visit the Camp Knutson website to learn more. Email camp.knutson@lssmn.org for information about how to sign up -- or to ask questions about the camp. 

Is it your first time visiting our Grain Belt Studio? The studio is located in the Grain Belt Bottling Building. The address is 79 13th Ave NE, Minneapolis MN 55413. Our studio is #105, up a short flight of stairs (or a short elevator ride). When you arrive, call 612-978-8638 and a CSP staff member will let you into the building. We can't wait to see you!

Attention Providers: To refer a client for an intake, call or email Ashley: 612-210-1393 or ashley.williams@avivomn.org. We're actively seeking new CSP members.

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To RSVP for groups, call 612-752-8332 or email community.support@avivomn.org


Group leaders will send Zoom links to RSVPed members prior to each event. If you are RSVPed for programming, we will call or email you to confirm any cancellations due to COVID or bad weather. If you have not RSVPed, we will be unable to notify you. Thank you.

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July Programming


Gather


CSP Picnic and Beach Day 

Wednesday, July 27, 11:00 am-2:00 pm 

Lake Nokomis Main Beach (4955 W Lake Nokomis Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55417

Join CSP Staff and members at the Lake Nokomis Main Beach for midday food, fun, and friends! Take a swan boat out for a paddle, try canoeing or kayaking, swim off the sandy beach, fish from the dock, play yard games, or just relax in the sun. Free boat, canoe, and kayak usage from 12-2 pm. Accessible bathrooms available. Cold picnic lunch provided. Please RSVP so we know how much food to get: 612-752-8332 or community.support@avivomn.org.


Transportation options 

  • Bike, Bus, or Metro Mobility 
  • Drive – there is paid parking close to the beach or free parking within walking distance 
  • RSVP for a CSP van ride. 10:30 am pick up/ 2:30 pm drop off at these locations: 
  • 1825 Chicago Avenue Garden 
  • Crystal Community Center 
  • Creekside Community Center 


Space in the CSP vans is limited, so please RSVP to reserve your spot. 612-752-8332 or community.support@avivomn.org.



BIPOC Lake Harriet Outing 

Friday, July 15, 12:00-1:30pm 

Bread & Pickle (4135 W Lake Harriet Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55410) 

Meet at Bread & Pickle on Lake Harriet’s northwest shore for a short lunch and a ride on the historic Como-Harriet Streetcar! Members can purchase lunch at Bread & Pickle or bring their own food for an outdoor picnic. The CSP will provide tickets for the Streetcar ride. This outing is for members who identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color. 



BIPOC Support 

Mondays, July 11, 18, 25, 2:00-3:00pm over Zoom -- No meeting on July 4

Safe space for people who identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color to share how their weeks are going. Facilitated by Avivo CSP staff who identify as BIPOC. Open ongoing group. RSVP for Zoom link: 612-752-8332 or community.support@avivomn.org



CSP Gathering in Crystal

Tuesdays, July 5, 19, 26, 1:00-3:00pm 

Crystal Community Center (4800 Douglas Drive North, Crystal, MN 55429)  

Join the Avivo CSP at the Crystal Community Center Forest Room for company, conversation, and connection. We'll provide coffee/tea, lots of friendly staff, games and puzzles, and assorted planned activities. Call the RSVP line (612-752-8332) to make an appointment for 1:1 assistance with technology, filling out forms, applying for benefits, etc. Chat with a peer specialist or just relax with friends. RSVP to reserve your spot: 612-752-8332 or community.support@avivomn.org.   


Crystal Weekly Schedule: 

July 5: Mandala rock painting

July 12: BBQ at Becker Park (see below) 

July 19: Kite-making with Ari 

July 26: BINGO and July birthday celebration! Win great prizes!


Becker Park BBQ 

Tuesday, July 12, 1:00-3:00pm  

Becker Park (5530 Douglas Dr N, Crystal, MN 55429) 

The Community Center is unavailable on this date, so let’s get together at Becker Park for a BBQ! We'll provide lawn games and food – please RSVP so we know how much food to get: 612-752-8332 or community.support@avivomn.org.   



Book Club: The Penguin Anthology of Twentieth-Century American Poetry

Wednesday, July 13, 12:00pm- 1:30pm over Zoom 

Rita Dove, Pulitzer Prize winner and former Poet Laureate of the United States, introduces readers to the most significant and compelling poems of the past hundred years in The Penguin Anthology of Twentieth-Century American Poetry. This indispensable volume represents the full spectrum of aesthetic sensibilities—with varying styles, voices, themes, and cultures—while balancing important poems with the vital periods of each poet. Featuring works by Mary Oliver, Derek Walcott, John Ashbery, Gwendolyn Brooks, Kevin Young, Terrance Hayes, Li-Young Lee, Joanna Klink, and A.E. Stallings, Dove’s selections paint a dynamic and cohesive portrait of modern American poetry.     


We are meeting only one time to read select poets out of this book. Come together in community as we share our favorite poets and read some of the most significant poems of the last 100 years. No experience in poetry needed, just a curiosity to try something new. You MUST RSVP to get the book dropped off at your home. 



Coping with Anxiety

Wednesdays, July 6, 13, 20, 2:00-3:00pm over Zoom -- We will not meet July 27  

An open, ongoing group to learn new ideas, share coping skills, and give and receive support from each other. Come to this group if you seek the comfort that comes through gentle connection to other humans who strive to care for each other as we seek to soothe our ragged spirits.  How do we learn to thrive in this environment the best we can? Join us to find out. RSVP to receive Zoom link: 612-752-8332 or community.support@avivomn.org.    



Tea Tasting Club  

NO TEA TASTING CLUB during the MONTH of July. We'll be back in August. 

Join us for a fun and lively discussion on different teas from around the world. You will have the opportunity to taste three different teas and decide for yourself which one you like. Since this is on Zoom, please RSVP at least five days in advance so the tea can be dropped off at your home. Dive deep, and become a connoisseur of tea! To RSVP, call 612-752-8332.  



CSP at Creekside Community Center in Bloomington  

Thursdays, July 7, 14, 21, 28, 1:00-3:00pm   

Creekside Community Center (9801 Penn Ave South, Bloomington MN 55431)

Join the Avivo CSP at the Creekside Community Center (Room 100) for company, conversation, and connection. We'll provide coffee/tea and lots of friendly staff to talk with, as well as assorted planned activities. Call the RSVP line (612-752-8332) to make an appointment for 1:1 assistance with technology, filling out forms, applying for benefits, etc. Capacity is limited, so RSVP to reserve your spot: 612-752-8332 or community.support@avivomn.org


Join the CSP Walking Club! We meet at the main entrance of the Creekside Community Center right before this event. Find more details under Move.


Creekside Weekly Schedule

July 7: Wooden figurine painting

July 14: Tye-dyeing with Audrey

July 21: Sewing animal pillows with Ari

July 28: BINGO and July birthday celebration! Win great prizes!



Fishing Club  

Fridays, July 1, 15, 29, 11:00am-2:00pm

The Fishing Club is back! Fishing rods, bait, and bottled water will be provided. Bring your own lunch and a foldable chair if you so choose. We will be going to different lakes and parks for wonderful fishing experiences. We will be learning about the kinds of fish in each lake and exploring the wonders of nature. There will also be time for discussion after our relaxing outdoor experience. Van rides are available upon request. RSVPs required -- please contact Ari to RSVP: (612) 449 –5712 or ari.rodriguez@avivomn.org.


Fishing Club Locations

July 1: Lake Hiawatha

July 15: Boom Island Park

July 29: Wirth Lake



Create


Open Studio

Mondays, July 11, 18, 25, 11:00am-4:00pm -- No Open Studio on July 4

Wednesdays, July 6, 13, 20, 1:00-4:00pm -- No Open Studio on July 27

Grain Belt Studio (79 13th Avenue NE, #105, Minneapolis, MN 55413)  

Please join us in our studio space in the Grain Belt Bottling House for Open Studio! Art supplies will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. Masks and RSVPs are required due to COVID19. RSVP at 612-752-8332 or community.support@avivomn.org. Independent creative work is always encouraged! 


Monday Schedule

July 4: Closed for the Fourth of July

July 11: Architectural drawing with Kate -- hopefully outdoors!

July 18: Acrylic pour painting with T'Adre

July 25: Hilary and Rupa host a Wellness activity


Wednesday Schedule -- Rick will lead creative t-shirt projects throughout the month. T-shirts will be provided, but bring your own cotton shirts, sweatshirts, or bags if you'd like!

July 6: Block prints

July 13: Stencils

July 20: Painting

July 27: Closed -- Join us for the CSP Picnic & Beach Day at Lake Nokomis!



Collective Open Studio 

Tuesday, July 26, 1:00-4:00pm 

Grain Belt Studio (79 13th Avenue NE, #105, Minneapolis, MN 55413)  

Please join us in our studio space in the Grain Belt Bottling House for Collective Open Studio! ArtWorks Collective members will lead demos, workshops, or artist talks -- independent creative work is always also encouraged!   Masks and RSVPs are required: 612-752-8332 or community.support@avivomn.org



NEW! Artistic Development & Opportunities 

Wednesdays, July 6, 13, 20, 11:00am-1:00pm -- We will not meet July 27

Grain Belt Studio (79 13th Avenue NE, #105, Minneapolis, MN 55413)  

Please join us in our studio space in the Grain Belt Bottling House for time to work with staff on professional goals within the arts: dream up what you want to focus on within your arts career! One-on-one support is available too. We will spend time together in July planning for what members want support in. Masks and RSVPs are required: 612-752-8332 or community.support@avivomn.org.  



Mindful Art 

Wednesdays, July 6, 13, 20, 11:00am-12:00pm on Zoom -- No Class on July 27     

We will be exploring various art mediums and mindful art making. This is a fun space for self-expression and self-exploration through the art making process. Bring your child-like curiosity. No experience necessary! To RSVP, call 612-752-8332. 



Music Production 

Thursdays, July 7, 14, 21, 28, 12:15-1:45pm, 2:00-3:30pm, 4:00-5:30pm

Grain Belt Studio (79 13th Avenue NE, #105, Minneapolis, MN 55413) 

In this workshop, we will learn how to write, record, and produce our own songs using the music-making software Ableton Live. Participants will be given step-by-step guidance on how to compose songs from start to finish. Members will have access to professional-grade recording software and equipment at our brand-new recording studio! This is a great opportunity for those who have a musical background, but also for those who wish to explore a new creative territory. All are welcome! 


There will be three sessions each Thursday, with a limit of one participant per session. RSVP is required. Call T'Adre at 612-978-7714 or email tadre.mchenry@avivomn.org to sign up.



Clay Workshop 

Fridays, July 8 & 22, 11:00am-2:00pm

Grain Belt Studio (79 13th Avenue NE, #105, Minneapolis, MN 55413)  

Join the CSP’s grand debut in ceramics! This month, we’ll be creating hand-built candleholders for an upcoming CSP workshop in candle-pouring! Learn basic clay techniques and finish with high-fired, glazed work! All are welcome to sign up -- even if you've already done a clay class with us. Capacity is limited at 12 per session. RSVP required. 



Move


CSP Walking Club 

Mondays, July 11, 18, 25 -- No Walking Club on July 4

Grain Belt Studio (79 13th Avenue NE, #105, Minneapolis, MN 55413) 

Walking and Wellness Mondays during Walking Club 

Join Wellness Coaches Hilary and Rupa for Wellness and Walking! We will intentionally focus on walking and discussing a wellness topic of choice. For example, the benefits of walking, practicing mindfulness, the importance of sleep hygiene, and connecting with nature. 


Thursdays, July 7, 14, 21, 28, 12:00-1:00pm

Meet at Creekside Community Center (9801 Penn Ave South, Bloomington MN 55431)

A van will meet members at the front entrance of Creekside Community Center at 12:00pm to take everyone to a nearby walking location in a park. We will be back to the Community Center by 1:00pm, where you can join in our regularly scheduled CSP gathering! 

 

Become a member of the CSP Walking Club! We will be meeting at Grain Belt Studio (Mondays) or Creekside (Thursdays) at noon. Those who join the walks will receive a punch card, and upon completion of ten walks, you will receive a new pair of white canvas sneakers to decorate at the Art Studio in September! If you are planning to come on the walk and questioning the day's weather conditions (whether it looks rainy or may be too hot), please contact Rupa at 612-532-4939 to check in and see if the walk is happening. 



Mindful Movement  

Wednesdays, July 6 & 13, 3:00-4:00 pm over Zoom -- No class July 20 & 27

In the Mindful Movement class, we will move slowly and intentionally through stretching, breathing, and a little exercise. This can be done in a chair or standing. You do not need to be flexible to do this class. It is open to all fitness levels and can be adapted to anybody. We start the class with a short meditation to calm the mind and then move into movement. Please join us on Zoom! To RSVP, call 612-752-8332 or email community.support@avivomn.org.

 

 

Zoom Fitness

Thursdays, July 7 & 14, 11:30am-12:30pm over Zoom -- No class July 21 & 28

Join us for an invigorating exercise class on Zoom, followed by a brief discussion on nutrition that supports your exercise plan. Have a mat or blanket to lie on and water nearby. If you have weights, have those handy as well. Please join us as we build community through fitness. RSVPs required: 612-752-8332 or community.support@avivomn.org.



Gentle Yoga 

Fridays, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 10:00-11:00am over Zoom

In this yoga class, we will use slow and gentle movement to maintain flexibility, incorporate breath work, and explore concepts of yoga philosophy. No prior experience needed. Please bring two blankets, a couple of pillows, and a belt to class. Movements will be done from a mix of seated, standing and laying down with ample time for transitioning between positions. Each class will begin with a short grounding and centering and end with a brief relaxation pose. There will also be time for discussion after our relaxation pose. RSVP to receive the Zoom link: 612-752-8332 or community.support@avivomn.org.



Heal


Perspectives Photography Group 

Mondays, July 11 & 25, 12:00-1:00pm  

Grain Belt Studio (79 13th Avenue NE, #105, Minneapolis, MN 55413) 

Join us for the Perspectives Photography Group! We will be meeting at the Grain Belt Studio the first and third Mondays in July, where we will explore the Northeast neighborhood on foot. Bring a smart phone and dress for the weather!



Sound Healing

Monday, July 11, 12:00-1:00pm over Zoom   

Listen to beautiful relaxing music to help wash away your anxiety and worries. No meditation experience required, but you must RSVP to get the Zoom link. To RSVP, call 612-752-8332. 



Expressive Arts Creative Therapy Group  

Thursdays, July 14 & 28, 11:00am-12:30pm -- We will not meet July 7 or 21

Grain Belt Studio (79 13th Avenue NE, #105, Minneapolis, MN 55413 

On-going hands-on creative expressive therapy through art-making in a group setting. Call Kate at 612-446-9119 for more information and directions -- and to reserve your space. This is a therapeutic offering. Insurance is required.  Please call Kate with questions on Medicare.

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COVID PROTOCOL REMINDER!


The Avivo CSP is working hard to provide safe in-person programming! You will be required to wear a mask while indoors; staff will provide a mask if you need one.


The health and safety of our members and our staff is of the utmost importance to us – it takes all of us doing our part in keeping each other safe. Please stay home if you are feeling sick and join us on our continued virtual program offerings. Reach out to CSP staff if you need help accessing virtual programs. We can provide you with a Chromebook or help you set up internet services.

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Dear Mary

A monthly column by CSP

Wellness Coach Mary Newstrom


Dear Mary, there are many types of lettuce and other leafy vegetables. What are they, and what are some good ways to use them? 

Good Questions! This is the time of the year when we have an abundance of different greens to eat. Now is the time to explore and try them all in their prime. Beth Dooley had an excellent article in the Star Tribune on different greens, and she happens to be the author of the book we just completed for the CSP Book Club, In Winter’s Garden. I highly recommend this book if you are interested in reading more about local food in Minnesota and Wisconsin. 

 

Dooley suggests approaching greens based on their flavors and textures, depending on your taste buds and what you like. Soft greens are pale and light, and their leaves are slightly sweet -- but beware that they wilt quickly. If you choose to eat these, plan on eating them the day you pick or buy them. An all-purpose green is crisp but with little flavor; examples are iceberg, oakleaf, romaine, baby spinach, and purslane. These greens last a long time and can be used in many dishes. If you want your greens to last long, go with sturdy ones such as chard, collards, or kale. 

 

And finally, to add a little zest to a salad, try some peppery greens that can make a bland salad pop. Give arugula, radicchio, watercress, and mizuna a try; they will impress any dinner guest. Enjoy!

 

Oh, and here's a reminder to store lettuce wrapped in damp paper towels inside  plastic bags -- and then try to eat it right away. The moisture in the towels keeps fluffy greens longer. Remove from the refrigerator right before using. 

 

Dear Mary, with all this hot weather, I  worry about the dangers of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. What are the differences and symptoms, and what can I do to stay safe in hot weather?  


Both heat exhaustion and heat stroke are severe conditions. Heat exhaustion begins with general muscle weakness, sudden excessive sweating, nausea and vomiting, and possible fainting. A heat stroke is when your body's internal temperature reaches over 103 degrees.

 

Heat exhaustion includes slow heartbeat, clamminess, heavy sweating, and a desire for water. Heat stroke, on the other hand, consists of a fast heartbeat, decreased urination, and decreased sweating. Remember that both heat exhaustion and heat stroke are potentially life-threatening.

 

To help prevent heat exhaustion or heatstroke:


  1. Drink plenty of cold drinks, especially when exercising.
  2. Take cool baths or showers.
  3. Wear light-colored, loose clothing.
  4. Sprinkle water over your skin or clothes.
  5. Avoid the sun between 11 am and 3 pm.
  6. Avoid excess alcohol.
  7. Avoid extreme exercise.


And finally, if you think you are experiencing heat stroke or exhaustion, seek medical attention immediately. 

 

As we move into the "dog days" of summer, slow down and enjoy yourself. Let's use our beloved pets as examples of how to get through the sultry summer weather. Take breaks, drink a lot of water, and find a lovely cool shade tree to take a nap under. Relish the summer warmth. 


Do you have a Dear Mary Question? Mary would love to hear from you. Send your questions to Mary’s email address (mary.newstrom@avivomn.org) or call it in to our RSVP line at 612-752-8332.

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