On April 25, 40 Hmong elders from several of FIRM’s programs, including Garden and Mental Health programs, visited the Fresno Chaffee Zoo. Some of the elders had never visited the zoo before, despite living in Fresno for 30 years. Lunch was provided at the zoo, and despite being a very hot day, everyone seemed to enjoy the event.
While this fun day offered an opportunity for socialization, it was also an opportunity to teach new skills and reduce anxiety around using the new Fresno Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. This new system offers buses arriving every 15 minutes, but also requires using a kiosk with touchscreens to purchase tickets. Learning to use BRT more confidently can increase independence and opportunities to leave home and get about town.
FIRM hopes to continue to do these sorts of excursion experiences on BRT, perhaps quarterly, and is looking for event sponsors. If you or your organization might be interested in sponsoring an excursion for elders, contact Zack Darrah