Writers needed for biography project at Stanwood care home

Many residents are experiencing memory loss, and the intent is to capture their memories in a way that they’re honored.

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STANWOOD — Josephine Caring Community is seeking volunteers to interview residents and write short books about their life stories and wisdom.

“Many of our residents are experiencing memory loss and our intention is to capture their memories to assure them that their life, purpose, and legacy are being remembered and honored,” an announcement from Josephine Caring Community states.

The care home provides long-term care, assisted living and transitional rehabilitation to 175 residents. The center was one of the first in the state hit with a COVID-19 outbreak in March 2020, and residents were on lockdown for much of the pandemic.

The center’s goal is to interview 40 residents this year and publish their stories in 10- to 20-page narratives.

For more information and to volunteer, email Eileen Burdick, spiritual care director at Josephine Caring Community, at eileenb@josephinecc.com.

The care home is looking for curious and patient listeners who are adept at gleaning and conveying memories, willing to honor each resident’s voice, skilled at biographical storytelling and editing, and proficient with word processing software.

Volunteers should be comfortable working with residents experiencing memory loss. And they will need to meet with each resident between three and six times for about 30 to 45 minutes per session. Visits can be in-person or remote. Interviews and writing should be completed within four months.

Jacqueline Allison: 425-339-3434; jacqueline.allison@heraldnet.com. Twitter: @jacq_allison.

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