A Community for Seniors
SPRING 2019
April 8 – July 7
(877) 797-7299 coviaconnections@covia.org covia.org
Welcome 2 Mother’s Day 26 How It Works 3 Museums at Home 28-29 Program Guidelines 4 Music’s Memory Lane 13 Without Walls Network 5 Mystery Melody 19 Welcome & Inclusion 5 Noggin Joggin’ 19 Program Guide 6 Open Mic 13 Social Call Spotlight 7-8 Perfecting Our French 27 Perplexing Questions 19 Across the Miles 16 Personal Storytelling 14 Activists R Us 9 Pet Tales 18 Advocacy Now 9 Picture My World 14 All Request Music Hour 12 Poetically Speaking 21 Armchair Travel 10-11 Poetry 21 Ask the Attorney 16 Practicing German 27 Bible Reading 30 Read Aloud 22 Bingo 19 Rich in Nature 18 Bird Talk 16 Socrates Café 33 Book Club 21 Song Lyrics & Other Hysterics 14 Book Share 21 Sports Talk 18 Coffee Break 16 Spring Rites and Rituals 26 Concerts from the Couch 12 State of Well Connected 18 Creativity Unleashed 12 Story Time 22 Electric Sound Collective 13 Support/Discussion for the Blind 35 ESL 27 Tall Tales 20 Father’s Day 26 Tech and Culture 36-37 Gratitude 30 Three Oaks 15 Great Religions of the World 30-32 Trivia 20 Growing an Elder Community 17 Ungame Group 20 Guided Imagery Meditation 32 Using Art to Change the World 15 Health & Wellness 23-25 Where Were You When? 18 Independence Day 26 Word Play 20 Inspiring Stories 17 Writing Workshop 15 Keys to Joy 17 Learning Spanish 27 Connection Team 38 LGBTQ Chat 17 Covia Community Services 39 Living with Chronic Pain 34 Well Connected Champions 40 Living with Vision Loss 34 Gratitude 40 Low-Vision Support 35 Donations 41 Meditation 32 Volunteering 41 Memorial Day 26 Supportive Services 42 Memorial Service 33
Welcome to the Well Connected Community Well Connected is a phone and online program offering activities, education, friendly conversation, and an assortment of classes and support groups to older adults accessible from the comfort of home. Our community consists of participants, staff, facilitators, presenters, and other volunteers who care about each other and who value being connected to engaging content and to each other. Well Connected participants can play a game, learn a language, write a poem, go on a virtual tour, meditate, share a gratitude, get support, and most importantly, connect and engage with others every day across the country. All groups are accessible by phone or online. Well Connected is a Community Service of Covia and is free of charge to all participants.
Well Connected engages more than 1,400 elders across 41 states. WA
VT
MT
ND
ME
MN
OR ID WY
WI
SD
UT CA AZ
CO
IL
KS OK
NM TX
PA
IA
NE
NV
IN
MO
OH
RI
VA
MA
CT DE
KT
NJ
MD
NC
TN
SC
AR LA
NH
NY
WV
MI
MS
AL
GA
FL
AK HI
Participants already enjoying Well Connected Be the first in your state to enjoy Well Connected
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How It Works
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How to join the Well Connected community: Look at the program listing on the following pages and find the activities that interest you. • There is no limit to the number of activities you may participate in. • Programs and schedules are published quarterly. You can enroll and participate at any time throughout the session. Call us at (877) 797-7299 to enroll or get more information. • Once enrolled, you will receive a current Catalog, a Participant Calendar, and an Activity Checklist - everything you need to start participating in activities at your convenience. • All activities may be joined by telephone. • Some activities are additionally available online using a computer or any device you use to connect to the Internet. • If you would like to join any of the audio/video activities, please fill out the Activity Checklist and return it to the office by phone, email, or snail mail at least two weeks prior to the activities you would like to join. • Some activities include handouts. If you would like to receive handouts please fill out the Activity Checklist and return it to the office by phone, email, or snail mail at least two weeks prior to the activities you would like to join. • All activities are listed in Pacific Time. 9:00 Pacific Time = 10:00 Mountain Time 9:00 Pacific Time = 11:00 Central Time 9:00 Pacific Time = 12:00 Eastern Time Call (877) 797-7299 to register, request handouts, or learn more about the program.
Well Connected is accessible to low vision and blind participants. Materials are available in large print, Braille, and audio.
Program Guidelines Confidentiality • Never share any private information over the phone or online. • Only registered participants have access to activity code numbers. • The opinions expressed by facilitators and participants are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Well Connected or Covia. • Groups may be recorded with notification. • Well Connected and Covia will not share your personal information with anyone without your consent. Phone/online etiquette • Ensure that you are in a quiet environment before joining a group. • Please try to join activities at the time they begin. Remember, all activities are listed in Pacific Time. • Be prepared to identify yourself with your first name when you join the group and before you speak for the benefit of everyone. • When not speaking, please mute your line to avoid background noise. • For audio-only activities: Press the mute button or press *1 • For audio/video activities: Press the mute button or press *6 • Please consider using a headset for the best audio/online quality. Group etiquette • Allow the Facilitator to guide and direct the flow of his or her activity. • Everyone’s opinion is valuable and must be respected in all groups. • Allow every member the opportunity to participate and be heard. • Do not monopolize the conversation. • Proselytizing, arguing, or directing hurtful or disrespectful remarks at any member is forbidden. • Life presents us with challenging issues, and we might not always agree. Please be thoughtful when discussing sensitive topics.
Violation of the above guidelines may be grounds for dismissal from the program.
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Without Walls Network Well Connected is part of a larger international Without Walls Network of programs providing older adults with endless opportunities to participate in activities and classes over the phone. Older adults across the United States are welcome to join the wonderful programs listed below. For more information, please contact each program directly. DOROT University Without Walls (877) 819-9147 / dorotusa.org Lifetime Connections Without Walls (888) 500-6472 / familyeldercare.org Mather Lifeways (888) 600-2560 / matherlifeways.com
Welcome and Inclusion grace welcome inclusion social justice
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We are open to all seniors. In keeping with Covia’s values of welcome, inclusion, social justice and grace, Well Connected is committed to serving people regardless of race, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, physical or cognitive abilities, gender identity, ancestry, military discharge status, marital status, size, source of income, housing status or any other protected classification.
Spring program guide and schedule Remember, all activities are listed in Pacific Time. 9:00 Pacific Time = 10:00 Mountain Time 11:00 Central Time 12:00 Eastern Time
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Phone: An activity accessible only by telephone Audio/Video: An activity accessible by telephone or online using a computer or any device you use to connect to the Internet Handout: An activity that includes a handout. Handouts can be received either by email or mail. Please complete the Activity Checklist at least two weeks prior to the activity you’d like to join and return it to us by mail, email, or phone New: An all-new Well Connected activity
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Session Spotlight This session we are excited to launch Well Connected in Spanish! We welcome Lizette Suarez, our new Program Manager, who is developing a rich Spanish-language program intended for older adults who speak Spanish as their first language. If you would like to immerse yourself in Well Connected Español, or know someone who might enjoy participating or volunteering, call Well Connected at: (877) 400-5867 for more information. Friday Special Events (5/3 - 6/28 from 1:00pm - 2:00pm) is now Tech and Culture! You’ll find some familiar groups here, such as Writers Read, but we hope you will enjoy some new topics. Check it out. Also new this session is Great Religions of the World, featuring a different expert speaker each week, Wednesdays, 5/8 – 6/12 from 3:00pm – 4:00pm. Did you know that Pet Tales is celebrating its 10-year anniversary on Well Connected? Share your favorite pet antic with Anne Sanabria on Saturdays from 11:00am – 11:30am. End of Life Planning and Options Did you join us last session for our End of Life discussions? We had terrific speakers, including Covia’s own Janet Thompson, a Senior Living Counselor, Dr. Stephanie Marquet, a geriatrician specializing in palliative care at Kaiser Permanente, as well as our own Patt Schroeder, also a member of the East Bay Conversation Project. We also heard from Christina Irving at Family Caregiver Alliance and Mary Matthieson at Mission Hospice and Home Care. So, here is what you missed! We learned to identify our health care wishes and decide who will represent us when you cannot speak for ourselves. We asked the questions: who needs an Advance Care Directive; why have one; what does it contain; where should I keep it; when does it become necessary, and how should I choose a Health Care Agent?
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Session Spotlight Not only do you need to have all those planning documents in place, but taking your personal values into consideration as you plan for end of life care is critical. You need to ask yourself what is important to me; what is my definition of quality of life? Advance Care planning includes more than determining who will speak for you, and when, it is time to think carefully about what is important to you as you move closer to the end of your life. Most people can identify that if they are in a persisted vegetative state that they would choose to discontinue life support, but there are many other choices to consider. It’s not always easy to determine what treatments you want, or what impact not choosing a treatment will have on your life. We explored options about the very end of life, including voluntary stopping of eating and drinking (VSED), palliative sedation, and the California End of Life Option Act law, and the criteria for invoking a request under the Act. We also considered leaving a legacy, asking for what do you want to be remembered? What is it that you would like to leave as a testimony that you lived? What would you like written about you on your tombstone, or in your obituary? Do you want a funeral or a memorial service? As a result of the recent groundswell of attention being directed towards death and dying a number of unique resources are now available, everything from engaging a Threshold Choir, an End-of-Life Doula or using green burial services. There is a lot to consider, so let’s keep the conversation going! Join us this session to hear from Janet Thompson, who will revisit some of these issues and help us think through our options and choices at the end of life. She will present in our Health & Wellness series on Tuesday, 4/30 from 11:00am - 12:00pm.
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Advocacy Activists R Us! Wednesdays, 4/10 – 7/3 6:00pm – 7:00pm Democracy needs three things to thrive: voting; the political act; information. Your voice is heard during elections by casting your vote; otherwise your voice is heard by committing a political act. We will talk about political acts, when and why we’ve committed a political act, what leads up to our decision, what sources of information influenced our decision, how did we feel before, during, and after the act, did we get results or not? We will listen to each other, encourage each other, and learn from each other. Democracy is a numbers game - majority rules add your voice to the total. Facilitated by Samantha Smith Advocacy Now Mondays, 4/8 – 6/10 2:30pm – 3:30pm Meet with your peers to discuss strategies that can be used to effectively communicate your opinion to elected officials about issues that directly affect the financial, emotional, and physical health of adults over 60 and/or adults with disabilities. The format includes sharing information with each other about mutual issues of concern and deliberating about what advocacy actions to take. All opinions are welcome and listened to. Facilitated by Patt Schroeder, Well Connected Program Specialist If you’re interested in using Art for your advocacy efforts, check out our new group, Using Art to Change the World, listed in the Arts section.
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Armchair Travel
Wednesdays, 5/1 – 6/19 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island 5/1 Explore the Canadian Maritimes, starting with the port city of Halifax, followed by visits to the old town of Lunenburg and the Alexander Graham Bell Museum in Baddeck. Then we’ll learn about the cultural riches of Cape Breton Island, including a “lunch ceilidh.” Finally we’ll take a ferry to PEI to visit the red sand beaches and to see Anne of Green Gables sing and dance! Presented by Amy Brokering, Covia Senior Resource Director (San Francisco) Italian Table for Two 5/8 Buon Appetito! Eat and drink your way through Italy! Experience the delights of salted fish in Sorrento; pizza, cheese, fine wine, gelato and lots of espresso, from Venice to Florence, Capri, Ischia, and Napoli. Two unique trips to Italy brought together into one spectacular epicurean tour! Presented by Tracy Powell, Covia VP Community Services and Ron Schaefer, Covia Chief Operating Officer Living in Shankill Road Belfast 5/15 Many people visit Ireland enjoying B&Bs, quaint towns, pubs and green coastal beauty. Join Marda and her husband Ward, who lived in Belfast from 2008 – 2014, to visit sights in Northern Ireland, along with unique glimpses of daily life long immersed in the conflict called The Troubles. Discover how Northern Ireland is proudly welcoming visitors. Presented by Marda Quon Stothers Visiting the “Big Three” in China: Beijing, Shanghai, and Xian 5/22 In China, the past is quickly disappearing and being replaced by a space age future. It’s a challenge to take it all in…rows of high end car dealers, malls with designer clothes and jewelry…juxtaposed with the ever present line of visitors to Mao Tse Tung’s mausoleum. Join me to explore the excitement and contradictions of today’s China. Presented by Ellen Kaufman 10
Armchair Travel
Wednesdays, 5/1 – 6/19 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Mexico Family Fun 5/29 Join a Lizette on her family vacation to Mexico. In just 10 days they traveled to 7 different cities in 3 states. All while traveling in a van with 10 people and a 1 year old baby. From Jalisco, the state where Mariachi was born, to Mexico City the Capital of Mexico, join her as she recounts highlights from their trip. Presented by Lizette Suarez, Program Manager, Well Connected Español South American Adventure 6/5 Join us on a South American adventure to the region’s most famous sites across three beautiful countries. We’ll visit Bolivia’s La Paz and Lake Titicaca, Peru’s Lima and Machu Picchu, and Ecuador’s Quito and the Galapagos Islands. Presented by Ian McDonald Orangutans, Sea Turtles, and the Wildlife of Indonesia 6/12 Channel your inner Jane Goodall, for a tour of the jungles of Borneo and the wonderful orangutans and other primates that call this place home. After spending time at Camp Leakey in Tanjung Puting National Park, we’ll make a quick stop to plant trees and release baby turtles before returning to the hectic streets of Jakarta. We finish the trip scuba diving in the Bunaken National Marine Park on the northern tip of the island of Sulawesi. Facilitated by Karen Coppock, Covia, Director of Home Match SF Helping Haiti 6/19 Haiti may be one of the poorest countries in the world, but its people are warm and hospitable. Travel with Jan and a group of VA Tech students to learn about the hard work of Haiti Outreach Ministries to serve its people, the work of Dr. Paul Farmer in the town Cange, and the project of VA Tech architecture students to design and build a bridge that re-established connection for a village whose bridge was washed away in a flood. Presented by Jan McGilliard 11
Arts All Request Music Hour with DJ Libby Tuesdays, 4/16 – 6/25 4:00pm – 5:00pm Call in to request the title track from your first record, your favorite song from your first dance, the song you listened to over and over again in your car way back when. Have fun laughing, reminiscing, singing, and tapping your feet. You may even have the urge to get up and dance! Facilitated by Libby Linden-Chirlian, Musician Concerts from the Couch Saturdays, 4/20, 5/18, 6/15 2:00pm – 4:00pm Join us for a special monthly concert series, with an hour of music followed by a discussion. Concerts in this series are a classic Earworms (April), Patriotic songs (May), and Songs You Didn’t Know Were Covers (June). Facilitated by Libby Linden-Chirlian, Musician Creativity Unleashed Mondays, 4/8 – 5/27 4:00pm – 5:00pm Adventures into your own creativity are just waiting to be explored in this workshop that will use journal writing, painting and personal sharing of experience. The journey will be an adventure in opening up the right/ creative side of the brain. Bring the excitement of color and words into your experience of everyday life. Come prepared with a journal, sketch pad and a set of watercolors, crayons or Tombow pens you can find on Amazon. This is an inter-active workshop in which everyone participates. Facilitated by Dr. Sheppard B. Kominars, author of Write For Life, Healing Body, Mind and Spirit Through Journal Writing, poet, novelist and memoirist
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Arts Electric Sound Collective Monday, 4/22 5:00pm – 6:00pm Join us for a live musical experience with Electric Sound Collective, a student ensemble making improvised and composed music through electronic means—such as amplified instruments, computers, mobile phones, household items, and small objects. Live music followed by a discussion. Presented by Giacomo Fiore, PhD, Musician and Lecturer, and the Electric Sound Collective Music’s Memory Lane Tuesdays, 4/9 – 6/11 6:00pm – 6:45pm Each week we’ll discuss a hit song, vintage television variety show, or a memorable musician in music history. From Big Band music to the Beatles, we’ll dive into our recollections of concerts, lyricists, and pop culture. Facilitated by Steve Maraccini Open Mic Thursdays, 4/11 – 7/4 6:30pm – 7:00pm All are welcome to call in and perform, big talent not required. Singing, spoken word, stand-up comedy, play your favorite instrument, read a poem or more. Enthusiastic spectators are also welcome to join. Joke telling is reserved for the last ten minutes. Facilitated by Kathleen Torres
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Arts Personal Storytelling Tuesdays, 4/16, 5/21, 6/18 3:00pm – 4:00pm Under the guidance of Storytelling Director Clara Kamunde, Stagebridge Storytellers explore the art of personal storytelling, adapting folk and fairy tales, and creating vibrant stories from real events in history. Stagebridge tellers have taken personal memories, classic stories, and historical events, and turned them into engaging personal narratives. In this call-in Storytelling Concert, you will hear these stories come alive! Each story is followed by a Q&A and brief discussion. For more information about Stagebridge contact them directly at (510) 444-4821 or stagebridge.org. Facilitated by Clara Kamunde, Stagebridge, California Picture My World Sundays, 4/14 – 6/9 12:30pm – 1:30pm Join us as we reminisce through poetry and explore our creativity. Using visualizations and simple materials, each person will explore their inner view of the world through creative and verbal participation. Our goal is to view our lives as a whole and to appreciate what each of us has experienced and accomplished in our lifetime. No experience required; adaptations included for those with vision loss. Facilitated by Alane Spight Song Lyrics and Other Hysterics Fridays, 4/12 – 6/14 2:30pm – 4:00pm Discuss the lyrics of your favorite tune, especially relevant in the month of June. But don’t be aghast when it turns to August. All are welcome to join us for conversation about celebrated song lyrics. Facilitated by Buddy Weisman
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Arts Three Oaks Fridays, 4/12 – 7/5 5:00pm – 6:00pm After a conversation in another Well Connected group, participants developed Three Oaks, an imaginary town with all the small town amenities – an inn, bookstore, boutique, fortune telling booth, and more. Create a fictional character and join this small town life, be whoever or whatever you want to be, in an environment of your own making. Indulge yourself in a fantasy life! Facilitated by Samantha Smith and Other Well Connected Participants Using Art to Change the World 2nd and 4th Fridays, 4/12, 4/26, 5/10, 5/24, 6/14, 6/28 4:00pm – 5:00pm Art has long been used as a tool for advocacy and social change. This interactive discussion meets every other week and will use creative prompts to start conversations about creating the kinds of communities in which we want to grow older. We will use art not only to explore what an age-friendly community might look like, but also how art can be an effective, accessible tool for communicating and making change. Break out your art supplies, or join us for a conversation. No art experience necessary and all forms of participation welcome. We will explore together how to make this an inclusive conversation for all, with a focus on people living with dementia. Facilitated by Sadie Harmon, Dementia Inclusive Communities Director, Elder Care Alliance Writing Workshop Sundays, 4/14 – 6/9 3:00pm – 4:00pm Join this peer group for supportive discussions, suggestions, and feedback about what you are writing. Get those creative juices flowing! Participants are invited to offer ideas for writing exercises. Facilitated by Jerry Sexton
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Conversation Across the Miles Wednesday, 4/24 12:30pm – 1:30pm The Without Walls Network comes together to share stories and talk about life in our different locations throughout the United States and Canada. Facilitated by Amber Carroll, Covia’s Director of Well Connected Ask the Attorney Fridays, 4/12 – 7/5 (no groups on 6/21 or 6/28) 3:00pm – 4:00pm Do you have a legal question? Do you know what probate is, or why you might want to avoid it? Ask retired California attorney with 42 years of legal experience your question, to receive general legal advice. Facilitated by Gerald Richards, Esq., Contra Costa Senior Legal Services Board Member Bird Talk Saturdays, 4/13 – 7/6 2:00pm – 2:30pm Join fellow bird lovers for this informal group to share our admiration and memories of our diverse family of feathered friends. Facilitated by Kaevalya Banks Coffee Break Wednesdays, 4/10 – 7/3 Sundays, 4/14 – 7/7 10:00am – 10:30am 11:00am – 11:30am Grab a cup of coffee or hot tea and enjoy a mid-morning opportunity to chat and catch up with the Well Connected community. Facilitated by Andy Andersen (Wednesdays) and Vi C. (Sundays)
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Conversation Growing an Elder Community Mondays, 4/8 – 6/10 10:00am – 12:00pm With Dr. Goff’s training in transpersonal psychology, passion for creating community for people of all abilities, experience in private practice and developing an elder circle, embark on a journey of connection and exploration of the aging process. Facilitated by David “Lucky” Goff, PhD Inspiring Stories Saturdays, 4/13 – 6/15 6:00pm – 6:45pm Today’s world inundates us with bad news. Want some good news and inspiration for a change? If you need more positivity in your life (and who doesn’t?), you’ll enjoy the tender nature of this group. Facilitated by Janice Rooker Keys to Joy Saturdays & Sundays, 4/13 – 7/7 5:00pm – 5:45pm Each day we will take a topic from the fields of psychology, spirituality, or philosophy geared to increase our happiness. We come not as “experts” but as fellow seekers wishing to warm ourselves at each others’ fires. Facilitated by Lynn Millar LGBTQ Chat Mondays, 4/8, 4/22, 5/13, 6/10, 6/24 (no group on 5/27) 1:00pm – 2:00pm This group is open to all LGBTQ older adults and is an opportunity to connect with others socially in a supportive environment where participants can share individual and collective experiences. We will create an inclusive place to share our stories with each other and build a sense of community. Facilitated by Ariel Mellinger, ASW, Support and Wellness Coordinator, Openhouse SF
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Conversation Pet Tales Saturdays, 4/13 – 6/15 11:00am – 11:30am Share stories about your animal companions, past or present, with others who also appreciate furry, feathered, and gilled friends. Facilitated by Anne Sanabria, Ringo, Butchie, Freddie, and Stevie Rich in Nature Fridays, 4/12 – 7/5 10:00am – 10:30am Where were you when you saw a spectacular sunset? What wild creatures have you encountered? Share experiences in nature and memories that will spark the positive associations that nature gives us. Facilitated by Rich Gerston Sports Talk Wednesdays, 4/10 – 7/3 5:30pm - 6:00pm An open forum to discuss all things sports! Themes will include: current games, past performances, favorite athletes, trivia questions, and more! Facilitated by Ray Hansen State of Well Connected Fridays, 4/12, 6/28 10:30am – 11:30am Join us to process and discuss the new and exciting changes at Well Connected that will make accessing programming much more accessible for all. We’ll also catch up on the current session to hear from you! Facilitated by Amber Carroll, Covia’s Director of Well Connected and staff Where Were You When? Saturdays, 4/13 – 6/15 12:00pm – 12:45pm Remember your first bicycle? Or your first kiss? Or the summer you fell in love? Join us as we share these memories of simpler times of our lives back when. Facilitated by Janice Rooker 18
Fun & Games Bingo Saturdays, 4/13 – 7/6 9:00am – 10:00am 10:00am – 11:00am Bingo? On the telephone? You bet! Join us for the classic game of chance and a few variations. Please call the Well Connected office to request Bingo cards, including cards in Braille: (877) 797-7299. Facilitated by Janice Rooker Mystery Melody Saturdays, 4/13 – 6/15 11:30am – 12:00pm Follow the weekly theme, then have fun, singing, “la, la, la”, or give us a hint. Then we guess the melody! Mystery solved! Facilitated by Jan Knowles Noggin Joggin’ Thursdays, 4/11 – 6/13 2:30pm – 3:00pm Let’s gets those dendrites going and spice up our brains! We will have exercises that may not always be easy but will be a fun way of joggin’ our noggins. We’re sure to have a great time along the way. Please join us! Facilitated by Nicolette Noyes Perplexing Questions Sundays, 4/14 – 7/7 2:00pm – 2:30pm Have you ever wondered how a fly can walk upside down on the ceiling? Or how a camel can go so long without water? Find out the answers to some head-scratching questions. Facilitated by Sharon Schwartz
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Fun & Games Tall Tales Tuesdays, 4/9 – 6/11 2:00pm – 2:45pm Do you like to tell or listen to a good story? Join the Well Connected “Liars’ Club” and see if you can figure out which stories are true and which are fanciful fabrications. Facilitated by Kathleen Torres Trivia Sundays, 4/14 – 7/7 3:30pm – 4:30pm Knack for facts? Attempt a guess? Take some clues to get the answer? Join in for a fun hour of trivia that will keep your mind in gear. Facilitated by Sharon Schwartz Ungame Group Thursdays, 4/11 – 7/4 5:30pm – 6:30pm In 1969, Rhea Zakich lost her voice for months; she spent most of her time listening to others. She emerged from this transformative experience with important insight about communication. In an effort to impart these lessons, she created The Ungame. Players share opinions in a nonthreatening atmosphere, where there are only winners. As players submit their own questions to the game, it evolves into a one-of-a-kind creation. Join us! Facilitated by Samantha Smith Word Play Sundays, 4/14 – 7/7 2:30pm – 3:30pm Join us for an hour of challenging and stimulating word games. Test yourself with word definitions, adding, deleting, or unscrambling letters in a word. No winners or losers in these games of fun! Facilitated by Sharon Schwartz
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Good Reads Book Club 3rd Sundays, 4/21, 5/19, 6/16 1:30pm – 2:30pm We will discuss The Villa by Nora Roberts (April); My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult (May) and Mind Game by Iris Johansen (June); you’ll have a whole month to work your way through each book. We will meet together for a rich conversation about memorable moments in the story, flashes of insight, favorite or least favorite characters, and more! Facilitated by Marie Hamilton Book Share 1st, 3rd Saturdays, 4/20, 5/4, 5/18, 6/1, 6/15, 7/6 3:00pm – 4:00pm Book lovers unite! Call in to discuss and recommend some of your favorite books and authors with other book lovers. Facilitated by Andy Andersen Poetically Speaking Wednesdays, 4/10 – 7/3 2:00pm – 2:30pm Poetry has been proven to inspire, challenge, console, inform, and help heal both the body and soul. Please join us to hear selections of celebrated and contemporary poems. Facilitated by Greg Pond, Poet Poetry Sundays, 4/14 – 7/7 10:30am – 11:30am Share with others poetry that you have written or that you admire and join in a lively discussion about the poems. Facilitated by Anne Allen
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Good Reads Read Aloud Thursdays, 4/11 – 6/13 3:00pm – 3:45pm Pull up your chair and come to a place where your imagination is engaged and visuals are just what your mind creates. Selections will be read from Fairy and Wonder Tales (1912), including international folk tales, and familiar favorites such as Hansel and Gretel, Cinderella and Aesop’s fables, followed by a discussion. Facilitated by Janice Rooker Story Time 2nd & 5th Saturdays, 4/13, 5/11, 6/8, 6/29 3:00pm – 4:00pm What are your favorite short stories? Have you written anything yourself? Please join us for an hour of sharing. You are welcome to read up to 15-20 minutes... or you may prefer to just listen to the magic provided by others. Facilitated by Nicolette Noyes
“ I have been a Participant for many years and never thought I’d be a Facilitator. One day, Vi asked me to help her with her program and that was it, I was a goner. I’ve even got my own Gratitude Program and I love it!” Nicolette Participant and Volunteer
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Health & Wellness
Tuesdays, 4/30 – 6/18 11:00am – 12:00pm
End of Life Planning and Options 4/30 Did you get a chance to participate in our special series on the end of life last session? We will revisit guiding you through the process of filling out an Advance Care Directive form, touching on what you need to think about as you plan for the end of life experience. Focusing on how to talk with family members and friends about this important issue, Janet will also refer to palliative, hospice care are and other valuable resources about end of life options. Presented by Janet Thompson, Covia Senior Living Counselor, St. Paul’s Towers Personalized Medicine: Better Aging with Medicinal Cannabis 5/7 Curious about how older adults benefit from the healing properties of the non-toxic plant? Recent scientific findings are exciting, and the technology lets you avoid impairment, consume without smoking, consult with licensed MDs, and buy products online. Which cannabis products can alleviate pain, nausea, and insomnia often more effectively and sagely than prescription drugs? Learn about healthcare providers who practice cannabinoid medicine, and discuss your own experiences and concerns. Presented by Linda Jacobson, KasanaCare Education and Outreach; founder, EldersTogether Connection Calls 5/14 The landscape of social connections is ever-changing, especially with families spread far and wide these days. This shift has led to innovative means for connecting, thus the development of phone-based programs. This panel will explore three options for engaging with other individuals via phone: Covia’s Social Call, a program that matches volunteers and older adults for weekly phone visits, Forget-Me-Not, an intergenerational project with Covia and high school students, and Friendship Line, a 24/7 crisis line for older adults. Presented by Katie Wade, Social Call Director; Britt Bassoni, Covia Senior Resource Director; Rae Marie Laguna, Manager, Friendship Line 23
Health & Wellness
Tuesdays, 4/30 – 6/18 11:00am – 12:00pm
Being Fully Ourselves: The Interrelationship among Mind, Body, and Spirit 5/21 What does it mean to be fully ourselves? We know that our thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and attitudes can positively or negatively affect our moods, physical health, and behaviors. Our physical health can impact both our mental and spiritual health, and well-being. Explore this complex interrelationship in order to improve our overall health to be fully ourselves! Presented by Patrick Arbore, Ed.D., Founder and Director, Center for Elderly Suicide Prevention and Grief Related Services, Institute on Aging Faith, Values & Sex: After 60 5/28 Many people believe that once you reach a certain age that companionship, dating and sex is no longer an option. Learn about dating trends, techniques for overcoming sexual challenges, and communication skills to effectively relay what you want and don’t want in a relationship. This in-depth discussion will provide you with education and tools to help you overcome the fears of dating and companionship later in life, and the ability to express your needs. Presented by Brittney Doyle, MPH, Founder, WISE Health Stretching Your Food Dollar 6/4 Learn about a nationwide program that can help folks with the cost of buying food. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly benefits on a card to buy nutritious food for better health. Learn more on how to see if you qualify and how your current medical expenses can help increase your monthly benefit. Presented by Paula Freeman, Covia Program Specialist
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Health & Wellness
Tuesdays, 4/30 – 6/18 11:00am – 12:00pm
Chronic Pain Self-Management 6/11 This session will focus on self-management strategies to reduce pain related to arthritis, spinal cord injury, low back pain, poor posture, or any other acute or chronic medical condition, including alternative pain management, coping and relaxation strategies, stress management, sleep challenges, fatigue management, joint protection and exercises to maintain strength and endurance. Presented by Anadee Nikte, Doctorate of Occupational Therapy, OTR/L, PAM Protect Yourself from Scams 6/18 Learn about the latest scams in the community and how to avoid falling prey to them, as well as how to seek help if you are cheated by a business. Presented by Sean Do, Victim Witness Investigator and Consumer Mediator, San Francisco Fraud Department Guided Gentle Chair Yoga Practice Saturdays, 4/27 – 6/1 1:00pm – 2:00pm Bryan (spiritual name, Eknath), founder of the Fire Yoga School (eknathyoga.webs.com), has taught yoga for 21 years all over the US, and for 6 years at the Pittsburg Senior Center in California. Participants should first check with their physician about participating in a gentle chair yoga class which engages all of the joints, with a focus on gentle spinal movements. Let us know of any injuries or health conditions by calling us (877) 797-7299 or email coviaconnections@covia.org. Presented by Bryan Mosser (Eknath), Founder, Fire Yoga SchoolPresented by Bryan Mosser (Eknath), Founder, Fire Yoga School
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Holidays Spring Rites and Rituals Saturday, 4/20 10:00am – 11:00am Spring around the world brings many holidays and festivities, including the religious holidays of Easter and Passover. Learn about some others that take place around the world. Facilitated by Patt Schroeder, Covia Well Connected Program Specialist Mother's Day Sunday, 5/12 12:30pm – 1:30pm Share memories of your mother, or your experiences being a mother. What is or was your favorite Mother's Day tradition? Hear a short reading from mother/daughter authors. Facilitated by Dorothy Gager Memorial Day Monday, 5/27 3:00pm – 4:00pm Share who you want to remember; hear the uplifting true short story, The Dog Who Could Fly, a hero dog during WWII who was awarded a medal by the Queen. Facilitated by Dorothy Gager Father's Day Saturday, June 15 1:00pm – 1:45pm Share special memories of your father, or experiences being a father. Facilitated by Andy Andersen Independence Day Thursday, 7/4 3:00pm – 4:00pm How do you celebrate July 4? What does this historical day mean to you? Hear an excerpt from Richard Peck's humorous book A Long Way From Chicago, featuring Granny Dowdell. Facilitated by Dorothy Gager 26
Languages ESL (English as a Second Language) Fridays, 4/12 – 6/14 (no group on 5/10) 4:00pm – 4:45pm Join us for this English conversation group for non-native speakers who would like to improve their fluency. Facilitated by Rosemarie Bahmani, native German speaker, ESL Teacher & Language Development Specialist Learning Spanish Mondays, 4/8 – 6/10 2:00pm – 2:30pm Join us to practice your Spanish through conversations, games, and interesting topics. Topics will be geared towards participants whose knowledge of Spanish is beginning to intermediate level but all are welcome. Facilitated by Rich Gerston Perfecting Our French Thursdays, 4/11 – 6/13 Tuesdays, 4/9 – 6/11 4:30pm – 5:30pm 5:00pm – 6:00pm This French language group will share personal news of the week and brush up on language skills. For advanced level French speakers only. Facilitated by Gloria Kasdan and Jerry Sexton (Tuesday practice) and Instructor, Jan Knowles (Thursday) Practicing German Fridays, 4/12 – 6/14 (no group 5/10) 3:00pm – 3:45pm This class is for participants with some knowledge of the German language, and who would like to continue their practice. Facilitated by Rosemarie Bahmani, native German speaker, ESL Teacher & Language Development Specialist
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Museums at Home
Wednesdays, 5/1 – 6/19 11:00am – 12:00pm
Portraiture at the Art Institute of Chicago 5/1 Portraits have endured as a common art form for centuries, reflecting an artist’s unique style and perspective, as they endeavor to represent an individual. Explore the range of portraiture at the Art Institute of Chicago, from painting to photography to abstract representation, spanning centuries. Learn how artists capture more than the image of their subjects. Presented by Paula Dlesk, Volunteer Lecturer, Art Institute of Chicago Monet: The Late Years 5/8 This exhibit includes many important works from the artist’s final years of productivity, assembled from public and private collections including the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco and the Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth, that established his continued vitality as one of the most original and influential painters of the early modern age. Presented by Jim Kohn, Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco Women in Art: Represented, Underrepresented and Misrepresented 5/15 According to Pliny the Elder, the first drawing was by a woman who traced the silhouette of her lover on a wall. If you read traditional art history text, you might assume no woman picked up a pencil or brush for another 2,000 years! Women were and are prolific and accomplished artists, but are more often seen as the subject of art rather than the producer. Discover examples of the vast contribution women have made in art. Presented by Nanette Hanks, Minneapolis Institute of Art Paradox: The Body in the Age of A.I. 5/22 Explore the primacy of the human body as it is poised on the precipice of a potential fusion with artificial intelligence. Inspired by the Moravec Paradox, look deeper into the unconscious role the body has in shaping our awareness, imagination, and more. Artists featured are: Zach Blas, Brian Bress, Nick Cave, Kate Cooper, Stephanie Dinkins, Jes Fan, Claudia Hart, Eunsu Kang, Jillian Mayer, Sarah Oppenheimer, Siebren Versteeg. Presented by Margaret Cox, Miller Gallery, Carnegie Mellon University 28
Museums at Home
Wednesdays, 5/1 – 6/19 11:00am – 12:00pm
How Posters Work 5/29 As a medium of communication, the poster has a long history and a wide range of social functions, from selling a product to promoting a cause. Despite the rise of digital media, the print poster remains a vital and oftentimes radical form. Join us to learn how some of the world’s most creative designers have mobilized principles of layout, composition, psychology and storytelling to produce powerful acts of visual communication. Presented by Ruth Starr, Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum Duels, Duels, Duels! 6/5 “How dare you, sir! You have offended me gravely. I demand satisfaction!” For well over 200 years, disagreements between American gentlemen were dealt with on the field of honor. Join us as we explore some of the most (in) famous duels that were, forgotten duels that weren’t, and South Carolina’s role in this checkered history. Presented by Jennifer Lee, South Carolina State Museum Persia: Crossroads of Art and Culture 6/12 Ancient Persia was at the axis of the trading world, influenced and influencing both to the east and Asia, and to the west and Europe. Uncover the unique artistic elements of this fascinating and dynamic region as exemplified by objects from the Asian Art Museum. Presented by the Asian Art Museum Selections from the Museum of Modern Art 6/19 Join us for a virtual tour of the fifth floor galleries. This talk will focus on works of art that are currently on view with an emphasis on exhibition strategies and new approaches to the collection. Works cover 1886-1955 and will include favorites and hopefully a few surprises from Cezanne to Jackson Pollock. Presented by Jennifer Katanic, the Museum of Modern Art 29
Reflections & Religion Bible Reading Mondays, 4/8 – 6/10 5:00pm – 5:30pm For the first half of our time together, we’ll listen to a reading from a Bible passage, followed by sharing prayer requests and praying together. Facilitated by Andy Andersen Gratitude 4/8 – 7/7 9:00am – 9:30am Morning Gratitude Every Day Afternoon Gratitude Mondays – Fridays 12:00pm – 12:30pm 4:00pm – 4:30pm Saturdays 12:00pm – 12:30pm Sundays Call our daily Gratitude Groups to share what you feel grateful for in a safe and welcoming space. Listen to others share as well for an inspiring way to begin each day! Facilitated by Kaevalya Banks, Marie Hamilton, Lynn Millar, Nicolette Noyes, Patt Schroeder, Kathleen Torres, and Tom White Great Religions of the World Wednesdays, 5/8 – 6/12 3:00pm – 4:00pm Christianity 5/8 Christianity is based on the birth, life, death, resurrection and teachings of Jesus Christ. Christianity began in the 1st century CE as a Jewish sect in Judea, a Roman province; it is the most widely practiced religion in the world with over 2.2 billion believers. Presented by Rev. Monte McClain, Pastor, College Ave Presbyterian Church, Oakland CA
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Reflections & Religion Judaism 5/15 The religion of the ancient Hebrews, dating back to the 20th Century BCE; the Jewish people believe in a special relationship with one God who was manifest to Abraham, Moses, Isaac and Jacob. Judaism is a total way of life, encompassing theology, law and cultural traditions. Rabbi Meredith Cahn, MPH, MRb, BCC, Chaplain, Covia St. Paul’s Towers Buddhism 5/22 Buddhism is the fourth largest religion in the world, does not have a belief in an omnipotent being, has as its first truth that there is suffering, and outlines a clear and specific path to liberation from suffering. We will explore the 3 major traditions within Buddhism (Theravadan, Zen, Mahayana) and their approaches to ending suffering (liberation). Presented by Sandi Peters, MA Hinduism 5/29 Discover the oldest living religion in the world, which began in India 4,000 years ago. Perhaps you’ve heard of the concept of Karma; learn about other Hindu beliefs, traditions and practices. Presented by Easan Katir, California Advocacy Director, Hindu American Foundation Islam 6/5 Islam began in Arabia in the 7th Century CE and is the second largest religion in the world, representing about a quarter of the world’s population. The Muslim statement of faith is known as the Shahada; “there is no God except Allah and Mohammad is the messenger of God.” We will discuss the five pillars of Islam, and the two main branches, Sunni and Shia. Presented by Gerald Grudzen, PhD, President, Global Ministries University, author of ‘Burying the Sword: Confronting Jihadism with Interfaith Education’ (2017) 31
Reflections & Religion Sikhism 6/12 Sikhism was established in the 15th Century in the Punjab region of Indian, and followed the teachings of 10 Gurus. Learn about the history of the religion as well as Sikhs’ modern day practice, identity and traditions. Presented by Aman Singh, San Jose Gurdwara Guided Imagery Meditation Thursdays, 4/11 – 7/4 Sundays, 4/14 – 7/7 1:00pm – 1:30pm 6:00pm – 6:30pm Guided Imagery Meditation is listening silently to a journey into your imagination, with the goal of helping you relax. Journeys may include trips into a flower garden, meadow, zoo, or festival. The journeys are designed to trick your mind into thinking about something other than your worries and giving your heart and mind a chance to recharge. The story begins on Thursday and is repeated on Sunday. Facilitated by Sally Hayward Meditation 4/8 – 7/7 Every Day 5:00pm – 5:30pm Sundays 10:30am – 11:00am The direct experience of our own inner reality is called meditation. Meditation techniques are mental disciplines that allow us to calm, focus, and examine the mind. These groups share 15-20 minutes of silent meditation where all lines will be muted. No experience is necessary. Facilitated by Christine Esenther and Kaevalya Banks
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Reflections & Religion Memorial Service 6/28 1:00pm – 2:00pm Join us to remember those of the Well Connected community who touched the lives of all of us. We’ll share memories and honor those we’ve lost, and we’ll reflect upon the richness we all provide for each other. Facilitated by Rev. Laura Darling, Covia Senior Director of Communications and Spiritual Care Socrates Café Mondays, 4/15, 5/20, 6/17 1:00pm – 2:00pm Around the world, people of diverse backgrounds gather to think and discuss philosophical questions with one another at the Socrates Café. “What is beauty?,” “Is it ever okay to lie?,” or “Who deserves happiness?” may be some of the questions to ponder. Facilitated by Linda Greenberg, Ph.D.
“ In 2006, I worked for Episcopal Homes Foundation and decided to volunteer with the Senior Center Without Walls as a facilitator of Bingo for ten years. Seniors are beautiful people. My neighbor was 81 when I was 18 and I listened to all her stories. Thanks to Well Connected staff for all the work that they do to keep us connected.” Gloria Participant and Volunteer
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Supportive Groups Supportive groups are meant to offer support in a safe, nurturing environment. They are not intended to replace individual medical or psychotherapy sessions. Living with Chronic Pain Thursdays, 4/11 – 6/13 2:00pm – 2:30pm Those of us living with chronic pain know that it can affect every area of our lives - disrupting our activities, our appetite, our personal relationships, and our overall emotional health. Share your experiences, your challenges, and successes with others dealing with chronic pain in a supportive, caring environment. Facilitated by Tom Norris, Retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, and ACPA Facilitator Living with Vision Loss Thursdays, 4/11 – 6/13 4:00pm – 5:00pm This peer support group for those with any level of vision loss provides an opportunity to share experiences and suggestions. If you do not experience visual impairment, but would like to know more, you are also welcome to join. Facilitated by Andy Andersen, M.S. and Anne Allen
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Supportive Groups Low-Vision Support: The Eyes Have It Wednesdays, 4/10 – 6/12 1:00pm – 1:45pm Meet others living with low-vision and share your solutions, while learning techniques from others for continuing to live a full life. Learn about available resources that can help you remain independent. Facilitated by Doug Rose, Lighthouse for the Blind & the CA Department of Rehabilitation Support/Discussion for the Blind Tuesdays, 4/9 – 6/11 1:00pm – 1:45pm This peer-led group offers a safe environment in which completely blind participants can share the challenges they face and the successes they experience. We will create a place to share our joys, fears, tears, and laughter. Facilitated by Andy Andersen, M.S., and Bonnie Rennie
“ I joined Well Connected Español as a facilitator because it motivates me to be able to give some of my knowledge to other adults and learn from them, as well as create a friendly bond.” Maria Well Connected Español Volunteer
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Tech & Culture
Fridays, 5/3 – 6/21 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Alexa, Siri, and other “Smart” Loudspeakers 5/3 Curious about the latest digital gadgets designed to obey your commands, talk with you, and provide entertainment? Could it be true that you’ll never need to find the remote control again? Let’s find out. Presented by Linda Jacobson, KasanaCare Education and Outreach; founder, EldersTogether Pictures, Passwords, and Protection 5/10 If you use a smartphone, tablet or laptop, then you probably have a list of passwords. Tips and tricks for remembering passwords, sharing and viewing photos on social media or through email, and staying secure online. Presented by Linda Jacobson, KasanaCare Education and Outreach; founder, EldersTogether Gig Economy Essentials 5/17 People of all backgrounds are increasingly turning to freelancing, independent contracting, and gig work to support themselves, advance their careers, and create a flexible lifestyle. Introducing the gig economy, learn about finding work opportunities in your field, through online work platforms, job boards, and more! Presented by Drew Yukelson, Program Manager, Samaschool What is the Creative Economy? 5/24 When considering the arts, people think about attending a play or musical performance, visiting a museum, or how children benefit from arts education. Few talk about the role arts play in our economy, or consider artists as business owners and entrepreneurs. The City of Minneapolis and the State of Minnesota are calculating the economic benefits from the creative economy and recognizing artists for their business contributions and expertise. Presented by Brenda Kayzar, PhD, Collaborative Strategist/Owner, Urbane DrK Consulting 36
Tech & Culture
Fridays, 5/3 – 6/21 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Are You Ready For Any Emergency: Planning and Preparedness Tips 5/31 Learn from the emergency experts at the American Red Cross how to prepare for an emergency or natural disaster. Whether your area faces wild fires, floods, or there is a power outage, you can make a plan for yourself so you’ll know the steps you can take to protect yourself. Presented by Jennifer Lucas, Disaster Program Manager, American Red Cross New Dimensions in Art 6/7 Jon Neuse will discuss how he has taken his 30 years of creating eclectic 2-dimensional images and re-imagined some of his work by crafting them into 3-dimensional ‘accordion’ style art books. Jon’s work has been shown in museums across Minnesota, Missouri, Illinois and Texas. Presented by Jon Neuse, Artist Beyond the Basics: Health and Wellness 6/14 Join digital literacy training experts from Community Tech Network (CTN) for a discussion on the use of tech for health and wellness, including how to locate and evaluate health information online, and to review a variety of brain fitness apps. Presented by Jessica Looney, Program Director and Eric Babb, Program Coordinator, CTN Writers Read 6/21 Writers Read showcases Well Connected writers reading personal selections from the past session. Poetry, short stories, and more! Join to listen and enjoy the many talents within the Well Connected community, or share your original work. To share your work, contact the office at (877) 797-7299. Facilitated by Patt Schroeder, Covia Program Specialist
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Connection Team Well Connected Amber Carroll Director
Annette Balter Program Manager
Patt Schroeder Program Specialist
Emma Marquez Administrative Assistant
Well Connected EspaĂąol Lizette Suarez Program Manager
Social Call Katie Wade Associate Director
Brian Stannard Program Manager
Casey O’Neill Program Manager
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Covia Community Services Covia cultivates and builds healthy communities with a continuum of residential and innovative aging services that actively promote intellectual, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. www.covia.org/services Social Call: Friendly visitor program with a mission to foster connections between volunteers and older adults. Throughout the US (877) 797-7299 coviaconnections@covia.org Market Day: Markets selling fresh produce at cost to seniors each week at various locations throughout California. Multiple CA Counties (925) 956-7398 tabney@covia.org Senior Resource Information and Referral Programs: One stop shop for seniors, their families, or caregivers to access information, referrals, and assistance. San Francisco County (415) 563-8043 abrokering@covia.org Alameda County (510) 444-0243 cbolton@covia.org Sonoma County (707) 539-0333 jarent@covia.org Contra Costa County (925) 956-7396 abalter@covia.org Marin County (415) 899-8296 kstrolia@covia.org Santa Clara County (408) 295-5905 dbassoni@covia.org Monterey County (408) 295-5905 dbassoni@covia.org Los Angeles County (877) 797-7299 kwade@covia.org Home Match: Matches home owners and home seekers, in exchange for rent and/or services. Marin County (925) 956-7380 swomack@covia.org Contra Costa County (925) 956-7385 adiaz@covia.org City of Fremont (408) 295-5905 tahern@covia.org San Francisco County (415) 351-1000 kcoppock@covia.org Rotary HOME Team: Partnership with local Rotary Clubs to do minor home repairs. Contra Costa County (888) 204-5573 info@rotaryhometeam.com City of San Rafael (888) 204-5573 info@rotaryhometeam.com City of Novato (415) 899-8296 kstrolia@covia.org City of Sunnyvale (408) 295-5905 dbassoni@covia.org 39
Well Connected Champion You may have noticed a number of new voices on the phone from Stanislaus County, CA. This is thanks to our Spring Champion, Denae Davis, MSW Intern at the Stanislaus County Area Agency on Aging – Project Hope. Over the past few sessions, Denae has flooded our inboxes with Registration Forms from older adults enthusiastic about joining the Well Connected Community. In Denae’s own words: “I recently began interning with a program that provides emotional support and socialization services for seniors in Stanislaus County, CA. I’ve met with countless seniors who’ve shared reoccurring themes of a geographically
Denae J. Davis
distanced family, loneliness, or missing previously enjoyed activities such as Bible studies, museums, and book clubs. These stories made it apparent exactly how beneficial Well Connected is, so I advocate for Well Connected with every senior I meet and follow up with those who enroll. I now hear themes of happiness, excitement, and how Well-Connected is a wonderful opportunity to ‘keep the mind sharp.’” Denae, thank you for championing Well Connected, and in turn, we champion you!
Gratitude for Generous Support
The City of Beverly Hills
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Donations Well Connected provides companionship, information, and intellectual stimulation to hundreds of older adults every year. Participants develop enduring friendships and many find purpose in sharing their passions by volunteering themselves. Your generous donation can help make this program an even greater success. To make a donation online, please visit: covia.org To make a donation by mail, make checks payable to: Covia Foundation (Please note “Well Connected� on the check) Mail to: Covia Foundation 2185 N. California Blvd., Suite 215 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 To discuss estate planning options, please contact: Katharine Miller, Executive Director, Covia Foundation (925) 956-7414 or kmiller@covia.org
Volunteering Looking for fun and meaningful volunteer work? Look no further! We have several ways you can volunteer to foster social connections within our two connection programs, Well Connected and Social Call. Choose to volunteer in either or both! Well Connected volunteer facilitators lead group conversations via phone, and birthday card writers write & mail participant birthday cards each month. Social Call friendly visitors offer a weekly, neighborly visit to interested older adults by phone. Join us to connect with someone else for a weekly call. For more information, contact Katie Wade at: kwade@covia.org or (415) 805-6692
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Supportive Services The Friendship Line (800) 971-0016 National 24-hour support for lonely, isolated, depressed, frail and/or suicidal seniors. 2-1-1 or 211.org Free, national, confidential information and support. Eldercare Locater www.eldercare.acl.gov or (800) 677-1116 A public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging connecting you to services for older adults and their families. Hadley Institute for the Blind and Visually Impaired www.hadley.edu or (800) 323-4238 Hadley Institute promotes independent living through lifelong, distance education programs (online courses) for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, their families, and blindness service providers. VisionAware www.visionaware.org VisionAware is an easy to use, informational website for adults with vision loss, their families, friends, and the providers who serve them. VisionAware offers practical information about living with vision loss, support groups, eye conditions, and services available throughout the country. CONNECT2AFFECT www.connect2affect.org Connect2Affect is an online resource featuring tools and information to help evaluate isolation risk, reach out to others who may be feeling lonely and disengaged, and find practical ways to reconnect to community. It is for individuals, families, and the community at large.
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881 Turk Street, San Francisco, CA 94102 covia.org/services/well-connected (877) 797-7299