What I love the most about the Village movement is that it values helping older adults remain living in our community. Everyone is richer for it. That idea is at the heart of this year’s Older Americans Month – Aging Unbound.
I suppose my own experience growing up with my grandmother in the house was foundational to my gaining that understanding. I learned in the pleasantest way possible that all generations are vital threads in the fabric of our community.
Research supports the importance of this understanding. The older adult is happier and likely healthier. And younger generations have the delight of learning from and experiencing older adults.
This year’s Older Americans Month kicks off in May and offers all of us an opportunity to reflect and explore diverse aging experiences and discuss how communities can combat stereotypes. The Administration for Community Living wants us to discuss how we all benefit when older adults remain engaged, independent, and included.
For me, the answer is simple - Everyone is better. I am deeply interested in how we might address and change stereotypes. I’d love to hear your thoughts via email.
May Membership Drive
During May the Village is hosting a new member drive. When you refer a new member, you will receive a $100 discount on your own membership renewal. Why do we want more members? One reason is more members creates opportunity for current members – the opportunity to meet new people and create more diverse and interesting programming.
But it’s core to our mission – to provide that helping hand for as many older residents living in our community as possible. And more makes a statement to the community about the importance of our older adult population.
The Cleveland and Woodley Park Village offers deeply discounted memberships for those with limited financial means. So don’t let cost become an impediment. All that is required is a confidential discussion with me, as the Executive Director.
If you know someone that might be interested in membership, please refer them to our website (www.cwpv.org/join) or invite them to call us at 202-615-5853.
Frank Finamore is Executive Director of the Village