SPARK! Memory Loss Program | Bergstrom-Mahler Museum of Glass
Today’s hours: 10:00 am – 4:30 pm
always free admission

SPARK! Memory Loss Program

What is SPARK!?

SPARK! is a cultural program for people with early- to mid-stage memory loss and their care partners. SPARK! is located in museums, galleries, nature centers, and cultural venues across the United States and continues to expand into new communities.
SPARK! was originally inspired by the  Meet Me at MOMA program, a successful outreach effort at New York’s Museum of Modern Art, and has continued to grow and foster engagement activities using sensory stimulants combined with visual art conversations, music, poetry,  hands-on art-making, movement, and creative performances. The inception of SPARK! began with a grant from The Helen Bader Foundation (now Bader Philanthropies Inc.) in 2009. The Bader Foundation’s Alzheimer’s and Aging program aims to make Wisconsin a leader, not just in how challenges posed by this disease are addressed, but in how growing older and the later stages of life are viewed. Through an emphasis on program development, applied research, and public policy, Bader Philanthropies strives to offer hope to families struggling with Alzheimer’s. SPARK! programs welcome care partners to stay actively engaged in their communities while joining peers to experience art, culture, and nature in a comfortable environment with specially trained staff and volunteers. SPARK! programs typically last 60-90 minutes and group sizes average 20-25 participants. Attending a SPARK! program provides care partners an opportunity to be together IN THE MOMENT. The programs are not reminiscent nor do they rely on recalling memories, but rather focus on observations, conversations, and creative experiences. There are a variety of programs to fit every interest and comfort level. From art-making, singing, and drama to museum discussions, performances, and cooking – SPARK! offers something for everyone. IMPORTANT HEALTH NOTE: Due to current COVID-19 guidelines from the CDC and Winnebago County Health Department, face masks are OPTIONAL inside Bergstrom-Mahler Museum of Glass. Thank you for your support.

Q: When are SPARK! programs held at Bergstrom-Mahler Museum of Glass?

A: Every second Tuesday of the month from 10:30 am to 11:30 am.

SPARK! programming is being underwritten by Bader Philanthropies.

Upcoming SPARK! Programs

Glass Picture Frame

Tuesday, February 14, 2023
10:30-12:00 PM CT
FREE – Registration requested–space is limited

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED FOR THIS SESSION

Valentine’s Day, celebrated on February 14th every year, is a time for individuals to express their affection with greetings and gifts. This Valentine’s Day, join us as we create a one-of-a-kind glass picture frame. Gift the frame to your loved one or place a photograph of your loved one in your frame.

Register at the bottom of this page, or call 920-751-4658.

Glass Art BINGO

Tuesday, March 14, 2023
10:30-12:00 PM CT
FREE – Registration requested–space is limited

Explore the wonders of our Glass Art Collection through a riveting game of BINGO. Prizes will be awarded for all those who attend.  Playing BINGO can improve your brain’s processing speeds, alertness and memory capabilities. Come join us in the fun!

Register at the bottom of this page, or call 920-751-4658.

Earth Day Celebration

Tuesday, April 11, 2023
10:30-12:00 PM CT
FREE – Registration requested–space is limited

Earth Day is an annual celebration that honors the achievements of the environmental movement and raises awareness of the need to protect Earths natural resources for future generations.  Join us as we celebrate the earth through hands on planting projects, fun facts, laughter and more.

SPARK! Registration Form

Which SPARK! session will you be attending? You may check as many as you like at this time. You can also come back and register for future dates later. Only check a box if you plan to attend that date. This helps us plan our sessions for the right size audience. Thank you!

NOTE: There will be a slight delay and then a confirmation that your registration was sent. Thank you!