A huge thank you to the Surrey Now-Leader for this article spreading awareness about the Heart for Music program.
From the heart: Surrey foundation brings music to seniors
Rick’s Heart Foundation empowers seniors through melody and compassion
The Rick’s Heart Foundation, renowned for enhancing the lives of those in need, has struck a chord with its Heart for Music program.
This initiative betters the lives of seniors through the power of music, providing essential equipment and fostering a sense of community among care home residents across British Columbia.
“Our program is making a significant difference,” says program coordinator Janae Sluys. Sluys’ journey with the Heart for Music program began part-time, inspired by personal experiences of singing and playing guitar with her grandfather in care homes.
“I was taught to have immense respect for people living in care homes. This is the perfect position for me.”
Rick’s Heart Foundation, founded by Rick Diamond over a decade ago, has a history of serving communities, starting with mobile outreach vans for people in need in Surrey. Today, the foundation’s reach extends throughout B.C., across Canada, and even internationally.
The Heart for Music program has reached more than 2100 care homes, one hundred of those in BC.
The program provides music equipment, including headphones, speakers, hand-held percussion instruments and standalone garden instruments, all free of charge. “You can see the need in the community, especially among seniors with dementia who can often feel isolated,” Sluys says.
A highlight is HFM staff put together customized playlists for seniors, which provide a sense of calm, bring back priceless memories, and spark joy.
Music has a unique ability to reawaken memories and stimulate engagement, even in those who are non-verbal. “This program has changed things, especially for people with dementia,” Sluys notes.
Inspired by the documentary Alive Inside, which highlights the impact of music on residents with dementia, Rick’s Heart Foundation embarked on a mission to bring this healing power to more seniors. “Our director was inspired to purchase iPods and play music for seniors, especially during COVID-19, to ensure everyone had access to music,” Sluys says.
The program is expanding this year to offer secondary donations of tablets and exploring outdoor musical therapy with instruments designed for use in garden settings. “We’ve received great support, including music therapy sessions, and we’re always exploring new ways to reach out to the community,” Sluys adds.
“Rick’s passion and hands-on involvement drive the foundation,” Sluys says. “It’s this personal commitment that makes us unique.”
The foundation is always looking for ways to involve the community. Whether through volunteering or donating unused musical instruments, there’s a role for everyone.
“If anyone has piano keyboards or other instruments they no longer use, we can find a new home for them and make a real impact!”
Coming initiatives include expanding the Heart for Music program throughout Canada and focusing on BC’s specific needs. “We hope to continue offering music and support to seniors who often feel forgotten,” Sluys says.
For more information, visit ricksheartfoundation.com. For those inspired to help, Sluys can be reached via email at info@ricksheartfoundation.com. Make sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram for any information.
Written by Esther Morand
