"This project welcomed and celebrated diversity, shared heritage/culture between the neighbours and our residents and benefited the environment," says Melissa Tiller, activity co-ordinator at the London long-term care home.

Meadow Park held the fall fair for the second year, only this time "we made the event this year a neighbourhood community event," says Tiller.

Meadow Park, in conjunction with the Southdale Bible Chapel and a local neighbourhood association geared to lower-income families, applied for the City of London's Creative City Neighbourhood Initiative Program. This programs grants $300 to applicants who want to make a difference in their community through a one-time project.

"We proposed to the program's committee members, if the children cleaned up their yards in the complex the $300 would go towards the purchase of 150 tickets to be dispersed to those children and family members who helped in the process. Many of these children do not have the opportunity to attend fairs due to their family situations. We wanted to give them a chance to do so, but at the same time they had to work for it," Tiller explains.

"Despite the rain, the project and fair were a huge success and it is well-anticipated by all for next year."

The event, held Sept. 30, featured opening ceremonies with local politician Khalil Ramal, carnival rides, vendors, entertainment, dunk tank, crafts and preservatives contests, face painting, and a barbecue. As well, the fair included a baby contest, a performance by a Patsy Cline tribute singer, a talent show and a visit from a local radio station crew.

"The event was created to promote personhood of the residents and to help them celebrate days of past at the fair," says Tiller. "It was a beautiful day and really pulled staff, families and residents together."