Dear Sun Spots: We are looking for volunteers!

The ‘Program for Grieving Children and Teens’ will hold a 27-hour training starting Aug. 14, for those interested in becoming a volunteer.

Classes will be held at Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice in Lewiston. Training includes such topics as understanding grief and how different age groups respond to it; group facilitation; safe expression of anger; self care; age appropriate activities within groups; rituals and rights, etc. This training is provided at no cost.

The program offers non-therapeutic peer-to-peer support for families who have lost a loved one to death. Currently we run two 10-week sessions per year, one in the spring, one in the fall. Kids meet in age appropriate groups for activities, games, rituals, art and other forms of self-expression. Accompanying adults are given the opportunity to meet at the same time to support each other and discuss ways to best support their family’s needs.

We are a volunteer driven program that is co-sponsored by A.H.C.H. and St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center. Volunteer opportunities include facilitating adult or child groups, greeting or interviewing families, community outreach, and clerical work.

This work is demanding, but extremely rewarding. Prospective volunteers should not have suffered a loss within the last year and be at least 16 years old. All candidates will be interviewed and must pass a D.H.S. and criminal background check. If you or someone you know is looking for a meaningful volunteer experience, please apply.

For more information, or for a volunteer application, phone Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice at 777-7740, extension 1302. – Jake Lariviere, Lewiston.

Dear Sun Spots: Would you know if there are any hairdressers in the area who have trained in France? The French hairstylists are known for giving great haircuts and I am looking for one. Thanks for your help. – P.Q., No Town.

Answer: Sun Spots had the pleasure of speaking to Richard Pepin, co-owner and hairdresser of Hair Looks International by Solange, Market Place Mall, 675 Main St., Lewiston.

The salon is run by Richard and his wife, Solange, both having trained in Paris, France, and also certified in the French technique of hair design.

According to Richard Pepin, the finished look between French and American hair design is similar. However, the tool concept and how to use the tools are very different. The French technique uses shampoo and razor work hand-in-hand, leaving the ends very soft and cut on a slight angle, giving the hair an artistic design. The American technique primarily uses clipper work, leaving the ends blunt.

They are open Monday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.. They accept walk-ins or you may call 782-3059 to set up an appointment.

Dear Sun Spots: Tri County Mental Health Services wrote to you about a month ago asking readers for donations of used furniture. I called the number and spoke with a woman who was supposed to call me back about picking up a pull-out couch I wanted to donate. She never called me back and I misplaced her number. I called Tri County’s general number the next week and was connected to a different woman’s voice mail. I left a message and again no one got back to me. The first woman gave me the impression that they really needed couches. I would really like to donate this couch. I tried calling the Fishes and Loaves program and they are not taking furniture. I just need someone to come and get it. I would appreciate any help with this matter. Thank you. – No Name, Lewiston.

Answer: Hopefully the person who responded to your originally will call back. Alternatively, you might consider contacting the Salvation Army for a pickup. You will need to contact them to make an appointment for pickup. They may be reached at 800-958-7825.

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