A new community program launching next month aims to bring creativity, connection and meaningful social engagement to local adults experiencing memory loss, while also offering support to caregivers and families. NYESPACE is introducing Opening Minds through Art (OMA), a six-week dementia-friendly art program designed to foster dignity, confidence and personal connection through guided creative expression.
The program marks the first time this type of specialized dementia-friendly arts programming has been offered locally, creating an accessible opportunity for older adults in the Pahrump community to engage socially in a calm, supportive environment.
Opening Minds through Art focuses not on artistic ability, but on human connection. Participants are paired one-on-one with trained volunteers during weekly sessions, allowing relationships to develop over time while participants explore creativity at their own pace. The program is structured to encourage conversation, self-expression and engagement, helping reduce isolation that can often accompany memory loss or cognitive changes.
Organizers say the goal is simple but powerful: create a welcoming space where individuals feel valued and empowered, regardless of artistic experience or cognitive ability.
The program is specifically designed for adults experiencing memory loss or cognitive changes who may benefit from structured social interaction and creative activities. During each session, participants will work alongside the same volunteer each week, building familiarity and comfort while creating artwork in a relaxed setting. No prior art experience is required.
Two program cohorts are scheduled to take place at the Pahrump Senior Center:
• Cohort #1: Fridays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., March 13 through April 17
• Cohort #2: Saturdays from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., April 4 through May 9
In addition to enrolling participants, NYESPACE is actively seeking volunteers to help bring the program to life. Volunteers serve as companions and supporters during the art sessions, offering encouragement and conversation rather than instruction or therapy. Training is provided prior to the start of the program, and volunteers commit to working one-on-one with the same participant throughout the six-week session.
Organizers emphasize that volunteers do not need an art or medical background. Individuals who are dependable, patient and interested in supporting older adults through creativity and connection are encouraged to apply. Volunteer commitments typically range from one to two hours per session, including participation in required training beforehand.
By pairing creativity with companionship, NYESPACE hopes the OMA program will strengthen community ties while providing meaningful engagement for participants and a sense of purpose for volunteers alike. The initiative also offers families and caregivers an additional layer of community support, helping ensure individuals experiencing memory loss remain connected and included.
Community members interested in registering as participants or volunteering can contact Charli Bruce at NYESPACE by email at nyespace@nyecc.org or by phone at 775-293-8514. Training details and additional program information will be shared after interest forms are received.
As the program prepares to launch, organizers hope Opening Minds through Art will become a lasting resource in Pahrump — one that demonstrates how creativity can open doors to connection, understanding and belonging for neighbors at every stage of life.
