"Together We Care" May 2025 Newsletter | | May is National Caregiver Month | | |
May is Blooming with Fun, Wellness & Appreciation!
🌷 May is National Caregiver Month – Let’s Celebrate You! 🌷
This month, we’re bursting with joy and gratitude as we celebrate the heart and dedication of our caregivers! Get ready for a vibrant lineup of activities — from the charming DIY Japanese Knot Bag Workshop, the elegant Marbled Silk Scarf Making, to the delightful Hand-Tied Bouquet class, there’s something creative for everyone. We’re also heading out for some fresh air and fun with a scenic trip to Stanley Park’s Rose Garden and a full-day adventure to Granville Island, complete with a breezy Aquabus ride!
To keep our minds and bodies well, we’ve got informative sessions like the Fall Prevention Seminar and Managing Stress with Mindfulness. Be inspired by a touching caregiver story on daily routines and the importance of self-care. Don’t forget to browse our 55+ Summer Programs to stay active, and check out useful reads on Vitamins & Minerals and finding trustworthy health info. Looking to save? Discover new supports through the handy Benefit Wayfinder.
Here’s to a joyful, creative, and sunshine-filled month — Happy Caregiver Month to all our incredible caregivers!
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The Province of British Columbia officially recognizes May as Family Caregiver Month. Across the province, more than one million people provide unpaid care to a family member, friend, or neighbour. Their responsibilities include transportation, meal preparation, home maintenance, medication management, banking, running errands, and countless other tasks that, taken together, allow the care receiver to live safely and comfortably. In BC, if family & friend caregivers were to be paid, their work would be valued at over $3.5 billion annually.
Caregivers are a critical part of the healthcare system, because they prevent people from entering it. Their tireless efforts help to ensure that seniors and those with chronic health conditions can remain in their homes rather than hospitals, in the community rather than care facilities. At a time when our healthcare system is stretched to its limits, caregivers ease the strain by taking on ever more responsibilities.
At RCRG, we proudly support local caregivers through the Richmond Family & Friend Caregiver Hub. The free, multi-lingual program offers information and resources, support groups, and educational workshops, as well as a wide range of events, activities, and field trips where caregivers can connect with one another and strengthen their social networks. Learn more and get involved at rcrg.org/caregivers
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on Jun 05 at 1:00pm
Learn how to make your own stylish and practical Japanese Knot Bag in this fun, hands-on workshop!
With its simple yet elegant design, this traditional bag is perfect for everyday use or as a unique handmade gift. You’ll choose your own fabrics and be guided step by step—no sewing experience needed.
By the end, you’ll take home a beautiful, fully functional bag made by you, and the skills to make more on your own.
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Fall Prevention Seminar
(English/Mandarin) on Jun 10 at 2:00pm
Join us for a helpful and informative Fall Prevention Seminar. In this session, we’ll share practical tips on how to stay safe and steady—whether at home or out and about. Learn how simple changes in your daily habits, surroundings, and balance exercises can reduce the risk of falls and help you stay confident and independent. It’s never too early—or too late—to take steps toward a safer, more active life!
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Manage Stress with Mindfulness
( with exercise)
(English/Mandarin) on Jun 23 at 2:00pm
Learn the basic concept of modern mindfulness the mindfulness meditation practices, the mindful ways to copy with the stressful situations, and the tips for bringing mindfulness to daily life.
The workshop will be delivered in Mandarin and English and last for 1.5 hours and hosted by Alex Li.(Trained Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Facilitator, Certified Mindfulness Meditation Coach, Certified Life Coach)
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Explore Rose Garden - Stanley Park
on June 12 at 10:00am
Step into the beauty of nature this June with our Explore Rose Garden – Stanley Park Field Trip!
This relaxing outdoor outing invites you to enjoy the vibrant blooms, fresh air, and peaceful walking paths of one of Vancouver’s most beloved gardens. Learn about the history of the Rose Garden, admire seasonal flowers in full bloom, and connect with others in a scenic and refreshing setting. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors, stretch your legs, and take in the simple joys of nature this summer.
Shuttle bus service is provided roundtrip from Richmond Caring Place.
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Granville Island + Aquabus (Ferry) Full day tour(lunch on own) on Jun 25 at 10:30am
Join us for an exciting full-day field trip to Granville Island, one of Vancouver's most vibrant and artistic destinations.
Experience the city’s beautiful waterfront as you cruise on the Aquabus ferry, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. Take your time to explore the public market, unique shops, and local galleries. You’ll have plenty of options for lunch, with a wide variety of delicious choices available.
It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy the charm, culture, and creativity that Granville Island has to offer.
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Finding Strength in Caregiving: My Journey of Self-Care and Support
Caring for my mother, who has been diagnosed with dementia, has been one of the most challenging yet meaningful roles I’ve taken on. When my husband and I moved back from Hong Kong three years ago, I was suddenly faced with the full-time responsibility of her care. It was overwhelming at first—I felt lost, isolated, and unsure of how to manage the emotional and physical demands. But I slowly learned that in order to care for someone else, I had to care for myself first.
Joining the Caregiver Program organized by RCRG was a turning point for me. Through the group workshops and shared experiences, I found a supportive community where I could talk openly about the ups and downs of caregiving. I picked up practical skills, coping strategies, and most importantly, I learned that I’m not alone. To recharge myself, I started practicing small but powerful self-care routines—like taking daily walks, journaling my thoughts, and carving out quiet moments to breathe and reset. These simple acts became lifelines in keeping my mind and body grounded.
Protecting my mental and physical health is now part of my caregiving role. I’ve come to accept that it’s okay to ask for help, to take breaks, and to acknowledge the emotional toll. Self-compassion has been my biggest lesson—giving myself grace when things don’t go perfectly and celebrating the small victories.
To other caregivers reading this: I see you, I understand you, and I want to remind you that you’re doing an incredible job. You don’t have to carry it all alone. Reach out, connect with others, and remember to show yourself the same care you give so generously to your loved one.
by Sara Mak - Caregiver
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Would you like to share your stories or tips? You cannot imagine how much you could inspire or help another in the community! You are welcome to call us at 604-279-7099, or email caregivernavigator@rcrg.org.
| | Materials of Recent Workshops | |
Find more caregiving materials and resources shared on our website.
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Benefits Wayfinder
Your guide to government benefits that can help put more money in your pocket.
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This monthly e-newsletter is issued for our caregivers as an update of the Hub's services and community resources, as well as to share caregiving experience and insights, all for the purpose of supporting caregivers in their journey of healthy living and caregiving.
Read Past Newsletters:
2025
January. February. March. April
2024
June. July. August. September. October. November. December
| | Jocelyn Wong, Executive Director | Jat Puri, Chair | | Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives | 604-279-7020 | info@rcrg.org | | | | |
