Originally envisioned as a redeveloped multipurpose room and greenhouse space, the project evolved in working with the architects and Covenant Health to focus solely on creating a larger, more accessible multipurpose space with abundant natural light for indoor activities, therapeutic programs and social gatherings year-round. When not being used for larger gatherings, the warm and inviting space is designed to invite relaxation and peaceful reflection.

Comprised of four areas – the main hall, plus therapy, volunteer and equipment rooms – the expanded multipurpose space has:

• Redeveloped about 3,100 square feet of redeveloped space on the main floor and in the basement
• Increased the functional area of the multipurpose space by 60%
• Improved natural light in the space by 80%
• Provided greater safety and accessibility for residents, visitors and staff with a range of mobility needs – from those who use wheelchairs and walkers, to those who walk with a cane or unaided
• Enabled staff to engage more residents in gatherings and programs within the main hall, which includes a kitchenette, sound system and ample space for:
  
  • Classes such as cooking, exercise, painting and drumming
    
  • Events such as movie nights, tea and breakfast events, and Happy Hour Fridays
  • Games such as bingo, horse races, and current event discussions
  • Multigenerational concerts and parties in collaboration with the onsite daycare
  • Community connections with visiting musicians and artists
  • Resident family council gatherings

With about 233 residents relying on Covenant’s long-term care at Youville Home every day, we’re grateful to partner with our community to have helped create a comfortable and safe multipurpose space that will improve the quality of life for residents – body, mind and soul, says April Grindheim, philanthropy officer at Covenant Foundation. This purpose-built space provides a welcoming, bright, open gathering area where residents, visitors and staff can socialize and benefit from activities together.

Laughter & living at Youville Home

Youville Home is exactly that — a home, where the sounds of laughter and living fill the hallways. Residents and their families spend time together, visiting, playing games and enjoying activities that provide meaning and quality of life.

As the community of St. Albert continues to change over time, so does the community of people living at Youville Home. Residents range from adults in their 20s to more than 100 years of age, and their long-term care needs are broad and varied.

With the Sigis Daycare program located at our site, Youville Home has infused activities with the vibrancy of children, as they engage with residents, reading and singing and bringing a renewed sense of energy and excitement.

Multigenerational activities such as music performances and baking programs in the redeveloped multipurpose space will provide both residents and daycare children experiences that will give a renewed sense of purpose, connection, well-being and increased happiness.

We’re tremendously grateful to Covenant Foundation and its generous donors and supporters who have helped transform care at our Youville Home, says Cecilia Marion, Senior Director of Operations at Youville Home. The new multipurpose space gives us the enhanced room we need for keeping our residents connected with our community, and offering additional specialized activities and programs to better meet the physical, cognitive, spiritual, emotional and social needs of our residents.

Impact report

Click on the image below to read our Youville Home Multipurpose Space impact report.