GREENSBORO, NC – September 4, 2025 – They say art is for everyone, and at Abbotswood at Irving Park, that’s certainly true! In celebration of Greensboro’s Pride Month this September, the community is highlighting Charles Waddell, sales director, and his innovative Art & Champagne with Charles classes — a program that brings creativity and connection to residents every month.
Waddell started these art classes earlier this year with a simple but powerful goal: to foster community, socialization, and fun among residents. With more than 15 years of experience in wellness and hospitality, he recognized the therapeutic benefits of art and wanted to create a space where residents could explore their creativity while connecting with one another.
“Art has always been a personal outlet for me,” said Charles Waddell, sales director at Abbotswood at Irving Park. “After my recent separation, I found joy in creative expression, especially paint pouring. Bringing that passion to Abbotswood allows me to share the joy of art with residents and build meaningful connections every day. Every class is different, and that unpredictability keeps it exciting — we might paint with balloons one month or try unique techniques with unexpected materials the next. The best part is seeing residents’ faces light up as they try something new.”
The art classes are intentionally designed to be interactive, engaging, and inventive. Residents never know exactly what project they’ll create each session, and Waddell puts significant thought and effort into planning each activity. This dedication has helped residents like Lynn Sametz discover a love for art even if they hadn’t explored it before.
“Charles is incredible,” said Lynn Sametz, resident at Abbotswood at Irving Park. “I had only dabbled in a few art workshops during COVID, but art has never been a big part of my life. Now, I look forward to each of Charles’ classes to see what he has planned. Last month we painted with balloons, that was my favorite! These sessions are fun, low-pressure, and a great way to meet other residents. I always tell new residents to join. It’s a wonderful way to connect with people and try something creative.”
Art & Champagne with Charles is held on the first Thursday of every month, and residents consistently look forward to these sessions as a way to socialize, explore creativity, and enjoy a little bubbly while connecting with their neighbors. Studies have shown that engaging in creative activities and social programs can significantly improve seniors’ mental health, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being, making programs like Waddell’s an essential part of community life.
In addition to bringing art to residents, Waddell is celebrating his own creativity as part of Greensboro’s Pride Month. He is submitting several of his paint-pour artworks to the Creative Aging Network-NC’s LGBTQ+ Art Exhibition, running from September 10–30 at 2400 Summit Avenue. Residents will also have the opportunity to attend a sponsored reception to view the exhibit and celebrate his work and the work of other local LGBTQ+ artists.
For members of the media interested in covering this story, please email Uniqua Williams at uwilliams@piercom.com.
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About Abbotswood at Irving Park
Abbotswood at Irving Park is a Kisco Senior Living community located in Greensboro’s historic Irving Park neighborhood. Abbotswood at Irving Park offers a full spectrum of senior living options including premier beautiful cottages, Independent Living residences, Assisted Living apartments, and secure Assisted Living and Memory Support suites in the Elms. Abbotswood offers residents a full continuum of wellness programs, creative culinary experiences, and a curated blend of physical, social, and artistic activities. To learn more about Abbotswood at Irving Park, visit https://www.kiscoseniorliving.com/senior-living/nc/greensboro/abbotswood-at-irving-park/ or call 336-551-1988.