October Wellness Programs at Circle of Hope Cancer Support Center
Who We Are and Our Mission
Founded over two decades ago, Circle of Hope Cancer Support Center serves the Santa Clarita Valley by offering emotional, educational, and wellness resources to cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, and families. The center’s guiding promise—“you are not alone”—remains at the heart of every program. All services, including classes, workshops, and individualized therapies, are provided **free of charge**, ensuring that financial barriers never prevent access to vital support.
Our History and Community Impact
Since opening its doors, Circle of Hope has grown from a modest support group to a comprehensive Wellness Center offering more than 100 monthly sessions. The center collaborates with local oncologists, mental‑health professionals, and community volunteers to create a seamless network of care. By blending evidence‑based wellness practices with peer‑led encouragement, Circle of Hope helps thousands maintain hope, resilience, and quality of life throughout their cancer journeys.
October 2025 Wellness Schedule
The following table highlights the October lineup, which blends creative, physical, and emotional wellness activities. Most sessions are available **both in‑person and via Zoom** (where noted), reflecting the center’s ongoing commitment to flexible, accessible care.
| Date & Time | Class / Group | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Thu Oct 1, 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm | Skin Care for Cancer Warriors with Kathleen McGraw | Expert esthetic guidance on skincare during treatment. |
| Thu Oct 1, 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm | The Meditative Art of Jewelry Making with Holly Feneht | Creative mindfulness through jewelry design. |
| Mon Oct 5, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm | Board Game Monday (new group) | Fun, welcoming board‑game gathering. |
| Mon Oct 5, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Book Club with Pam Ripling | Discussion of selected reads relevant to cancer journey. |
| Tue Oct 6, 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm | Structured Effective Venting with Asha Blanchard (*by appointment*) | Guided emotional release technique. |
| Tue Oct 6, 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Peer‑led Support Group with Colleen Shaffer (Zoom & in‑person) | Shared experiences and coping strategies. |
| Wed Oct 7, 1:30 pm – 2:50 pm | Essential Oil Touch with Leigh Ann Stiglich (*by appointment*) | Aromatic therapy for relaxation. |
| Wed Oct 7, 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm | Crafting with Colleen Shaffer & Jeannie Dodge (new time) | Hands‑on craft project. |
| Thu Oct 8, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm | Qigong for Relaxation & Healing with Clare Crocker | Gentle movement for stress relief. |
| Thu Oct 8, 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm | Structured Effective Venting with Asha Blanchard (*by appointment*) | Same as earlier – dedicated venting session. |
| Mon Oct 12, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm | Board Game Monday | Repeat of popular game night. |
| Mon Oct 12, 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm | Creative Expressions Group with Mary Petersen (Zoom) | Art‑based therapy for emotional wellness. |
| Tue Oct 13, 10:30 am – 11:30 am | Gentle Yoga with Terry Wankle | Low‑impact yoga for strength and calm. |
| Tue Oct 13, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm | Move & Groove: Line Dance Intro with Danise Davis (new class) | Fun, social dance to improve mobility. |
| Tue Oct 13, 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm | Mood Recipe Session 1 with Asha Blanchard (*by appointment*) | Culinary approach to emotional balance. |
| Tue Oct 13, 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm | Learn to Watercolor Paint with Qiana Tarlow | Art instruction for creative expression. |
| Tue Oct 13, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm | Therapist‑led Support Group with Cheryl Morrow, MFT | Clinical guidance for coping strategies. |
| Thu Oct 15, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm | Spooky Halloween Coloring for Relaxation with Tricia Rasplicka (new theme) | Coloring activity to reduce stress. |
| Thu Oct 15, 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm | Skin Care for Cancer Warriors with Kathleen McGraw | Continued skin‑care education. |
| Sat Oct 17, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm | The Art of HOPE TEA | Community tea gathering with art showcases. |
| Mon Oct 19, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm | Board Game Monday | Game night repeats. |
| Mon Oct 19, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm & 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm | Healing Touch with Karen Nelson (*by appointment*) | Therapeutic touch for relaxation. |
| Tue Oct 20, 1:30 pm – 2:10 pm & 2:10 pm – 2:50 pm | Essential Oil Touch with Leigh Ann Stiglich (*by appointment*) | Aromatic touch therapy. |
| Tue Oct 20, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm | Qigong for Relaxation & Healing with Clare Crocker | Movement for stress relief. |
| Tue Oct 20, 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Peer‑led Support Group with Colleen Shaffer (Zoom & in‑person) | Shared experiences and coping. |
| Wed Oct 21, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm | Healing Touch with Terry Goldwater (*by appointment*) | Therapeutic touch sessions. |
| Wed Oct 21, 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm | Group Healing Touch with Karen Nelson (new class) | Collective touch therapy. |
| Thu Oct 22, 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm | The Art of Flower Arranging with Colleen Shaffer (new time) | Floral design as creative therapy. |
| Mon Oct 26, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm | American Mahjong Players Club (new group) | Strategic card game social. |
| Mon Oct 26, 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm | Creative Expressions Group with Mary Petersen (Zoom) | Art therapy online. |
| Tue Oct 27, 10:30 am – 11:30 am | Gentle Yoga with Terry Wankle | Calm, low‑impact sessions. |
| Tue Oct 27, 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm | Mood Recipe Session 2 with Asha Blanchard (*by appointment*) | Culinary mood‑balancing. |
| Tue Oct 27, 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm | Sound Bath with Jenni Duncan | Healing frequencies and relaxation. |
| Tue Oct 27, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm | Therapist‑led Support Group with Cheryl Morrow, MFT | Professional guidance. |
| Wed Oct 28, 10:30 am – 11:30 am | Back Care & Restorative Yoga with Dani Ibarra | Therapeutic yoga for back health. |
| Thu Oct 29, 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm | Bingo Spooktacular with Tricia & Kathryn | Fun themed bingo night. |
Highlighted Programs Making a Difference
While the full calendar offers variety, a few favorites consistently draw strong participation:
- Board Game Monday – a welcoming space for strategic play, social connection, and gentle mental stimulation. New and returning players alike enjoy the camaraderie.
- Mood Recipe Sessions – led by founder Asha Blanchard, these culinary workshops blend mood‑management techniques with simple, nourishing recipes, empowering participants to influence emotional well‑being through food.
- Healing Touch Therapies – offered by Karen Nelson, Terry Goldwater, and others, these sessions provide non‑invasive, relaxation‑focused touch modalities that complement conventional cancer care.
- Peer‑led Support Groups – facilitated by veterans like Colleen Shaffer, these groups foster shared stories, practical coping tools, and a sense of belonging, whether attended in‑person or via Zoom.
How to Join and Reserve
All classes and therapies require **advance reservations** to ensure a comfortable, safe environment for all participants. Spaces are limited, and many specialty sessions, such as **Structured Effective Venting** and **Essential Oil Touch**, operate on an appointment‑only basis.
Eligibility & Registration Process
- Confirm eligibility: Sessions are open to current cancer patients, survivors, families, friends, and caregivers.
- Contact the center:
- Phone: 661‑254‑5218
- Email: info@circleofhopeinc.org
- Provide basic information (name, relationship to patient, preferred session date/time).
- Receive a confirmation and any pre‑session instructions (e.g., supplies needed for craft classes).
Reservations can be made up to two weeks in advance, with last‑minute openings occasionally released for high‑demand groups.
The Impact of Community‑Based Cancer Support
Research consistently shows that social connection improves treatment adherence, reduces stress, and enhances overall quality of life for individuals facing cancer. Circle of Hope’s model—combining peer support, professional wellness therapies, and creative outlets—creates a **holistic safety net** that extends beyond the clinic walls.
Benefits for Patients, Caregivers, and Survivors
- Emotional Resilience – Group discussions and venting sessions equip participants with coping tools.
- Physical Comfort – Gentle yoga, Qigong, and restorative exercises aid mobility and pain management.
- Creative Expression – Art, jewelry making, and crafting provide outlets for self‑discovery and stress relief.
- Social Connection – Regular meet‑ups, board games, and book clubs combat isolation.
- Educational Empowerment – Skin‑care, nutrition, and meditation workshops give actionable knowledge.
Current Trends in Cancer Support: Virtual and Hybrid Options
Over the past few years, the cancer‑support landscape has shifted toward **hybrid delivery models**. Circle of Hope now offers many of its popular groups via Zoom, allowing participants in remote areas or with mobility challenges to stay engaged. This trend aligns with broader healthcare movements emphasizing telehealth accessibility and personalized, flexible care pathways.
Virtual & Hybrid Modalities
- Multi‑platform access: In‑person sessions coexist with live‑streamed options for peer‑support groups, Creative Expressions, and Mood Recipe workshops.
- Enhanced privacy: Virtual formats can reduce stigma for some participants, encouraging broader involvement.
- Integration with mobile health: Participants can log mood or wellness data via partner apps, creating a richer feedback loop for facilitators.
Get Involved: Volunteer, Donate, Sponsor
Circle of Hope relies on community generosity to sustain its **free-of-charge** programs. Whether through time, treasure, or talent, contributions directly amplify the center’s ability to serve the Santa Clarita Valley.
Volunteer Opportunities
- Program assistance – help set up supplies for craft or yoga classes.
- Guest speakers – share expertise in areas such as nutrition, financial planning, or holistic health.
- Administrative support – data entry, phone outreach, event coordination.
For detailed volunteer guidelines, contact the office at 661‑254‑5218 or email info@circleofhopeinc.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are all programs truly free?
A: Yes. Circle of Hope funds its services through donations, grants, and community support, allowing all classes and therapies to be offered at no cost.
Q: Do I need a physician’s referral?
A: While a referral can help coordinate care, it is not required for participation. The center welcomes anyone touched by cancer.
Q: How can I prepare for a session?
A: Most sessions are drop‑in style with minimal preparation. Specialty classes (e.g., essential oil touch) may request prior appointment and sometimes specific clothing or skin conditions disclosure.
Q: What if I need accommodations?
A: The center strives to provide wheelchair accessibility, sign‑language interpreters, and modified activities upon request.
Contact and Additional Resources
Circle of Hope Cancer Support Center
Phone: 661‑254‑5218
Email: info@circleofhopeinc.org
Website: www.circleofhopeinc.org
For the most current program details, reservation forms, and upcoming workshop announcements, visit the website or subscribe to the center’s mailing list. The site also features downloadable resources on coping strategies, nutrition guides, and a blog featuring survivor stories.
Conclusion
Circle of Hope stands as a beacon of **compassion, education, and wellness** for the Santa Clarita Valley’s cancer community. By offering a rich calendar of free, evidence‑informed classes—ranging from therapeutic yoga and creative arts to peer‑led support groups—the center ensures that financial constraints never stand between individuals and the care they need. The integration of virtual options reflects a forward‑thinking approach that expands reach and flexibility for all participants. Whether you are seeking relief, connection, or creative expression, Circle of Hope provides a welcoming environment where you truly **are not alone** on your cancer journey.
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