Circle of Music Awarded $49,915 Grant for Documentary and Resources!

Jan. 22, 2025

We’re thrilled to announce that the Circle of Music Intergenerational Choir, led by Laurier alumna Sasha Judelson (MA '16) and Professor Dr. Lee Willingham, has been awarded a $49,915 grant from the Retired Teachers of Ontario (RTOERO) Foundation.

This generous funding will bring the choir's inspiring story to life through a documentary film and an enriched resource website designed to share their journey and empower other communities across Canada to create similar programs.

Since 2017, the Circle of Music program has united individuals living with dementia, their caregiver partners, and teen volunteers for weekly rehearsals and heartwarming “tea time” at a downtown Kitchener church. Backed by the New Horizons Project for Seniors and SSHRC funding, Sasha’s ongoing research highlights the profound impact of this intergenerational initiative on participants and the wider community.

Congratulations to Sasha and Dr. Willingham for their visionary leadership in harnessing the power of music to build connections, foster support, and inspire others across generations.

For more information about Circle of Music Intergenerational Choir contact Sasha Judelson at sjudelson@wlu.ca or 519-573-4569.