Pathways
A N N U A L R E P O R T
A Publication of
VOLUNTEER PROFILE Barry Coggins devotes his life to fighting isolation and food insecurity to benefit older adults in our community. “Meals on Wheels!” comes the cheery greeting as Nashville songwriter Coggins knocks on the door of his latest delivery destination. For more than twentyfive years as a volunteer, Coggins has spearheaded an effort to deliver hot food to older adults in need for FiftyForward Fresh/ Meals on Wheels. “Food for the body and conversation for the soul” is his motto as he spends every Thursday out in the community making deliveries, often bringing friends along to help. In all his years of service, he has delivered an estimated 9,000 meals and volunteered 3,000 hours. “It’s a good habit to have … It’s a wonderful thing to be able to share food and conversation with people who enjoy the company,” says Coggins about his service. "Delivering meals means just as much to me - probably more than it does for the people who need the meals. The hugs I get are worth any time I invest."
FALL 2019
FiftyForward supports, champions and enhances life for those 50 and older.
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Barry Coggins devotes life to benefit older adults in our community In her own words: Jean Harrington FiftyForward Fresh/Meals on Wheels
Barry Coggins is seen here with Sharie Loik Goodman (L), director of FiftyForward Fresh/Meals on Wheels and Gretchen Funk (R), associate executive director of Supportive Care Services.
Coggins also shows his love of FiftyForward Fresh through fundraising. He recently hosted the Barry Coggins Golf Tournament for FiftyForward Fresh/Meals on Wheels for the twentieth year in a row, raising more than $20,000. In addition, he hosts an annual singer/songwriter night and ‘Barry-oke’ as events which bring in much-needed funds for the program. According to a study by Feeding America, Tennessee is tied with Missouri as the 41st most food-insecure state. More than one million Tennesseans are food insecure, 17.1% of the state’s population. FiftyForward Fresh seeks to alleviate hunger for older adults who are isolated or in need, delivering more than 18,000 nutritious meals annually, including on weekends and holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Volunteers like Barry Coggins are the heart and soul of the mission. 1
Jean Harrington resides in a senior tower and depends on FiftyForward Fresh/Meals on Wheels. She recalls how going to the grocery store was getting harder. It was especially challenging when she’d forget something or not have what she wanted or needed to make a meal. She said her son, who takes great care of her, found FiftyForward Fresh. Harrington is thankful for the dependability and regular deliveries. “It the food, is there for you all the time.” Harrington hails from Northern New York near the Canadian border but moved to Nashville to be closer to family. “I couldn’t be more pleased with the meals,” she said. “Every dinner has such variety.” She’s also happy to have fruit and healthy options — especially the spaghetti made with whole grain noodles and other substantial meals. She said, “I’m overwhelmed with how much I look forward to getting my meal.” She especially loves the young people who come to her door. “They are so proud and enjoy being useful. Volunteers have meant a lot. It is like a guest that you didn’t have to invite, but who shows up.” "Please do not forget those of us who are living alone in our homes. We need this kind of encouragement!" — Vera Thompson, Belmont area meal recipient
Pathways A FiftyForward Publication
Soundbite from Sallie FiftyForward Executive Director Sallie Hussey has been leading our team since the new year began and says she still gets excited when she pulls into the parking lot. Hussey says being back at FiftyForward since her early days as the development associate more than twenty years ago is wonderful and unique. “There’s something beautiful about seeing the joy from a different perspective. It’s a unique thing to see our constituents on this end, since now I am a part of this group.” She also loves the fact that FiftyForward’s core programs and services have remained strong and haven’t changed that much. She acknowledges that changes in programming on a larger scale may come later down the road. “What our constituents need in the next five or more years and what programs and services we need to offer are yet to be determined,” she noted. “That is something we are going to have to figure out together with those we serve.” We have had terrific leadership through the years. Janet Jernigan and a stellar team brought our agency to where we are today. A few months ago, I submitted an editorial to The Tennessean showcasing the new vision we (and others who focus on the older population) are embracing. It offers a unique and invigorating perspective.
Reframing Aging a “Tennessee Voices” column Submitted by Sallie Hussey to The Tennessean
Thanks to advances in public health, medicine, and lifestyle, many more of us are living longer, often better lives. Unfortunately, as a society and even here in Nashville, obstacles both real and perceived prevent us from participating fully in our community as we get older. Moving forward, we need to rethink this highly productive phase of life in ways that benefit all of us. Earlier this spring, the West End Home Foundation and their Executive Director Dianne Oliver launched a new Reframing Aging initiative as a fresh opportunity for the Nashville community. Although this type of training has been offered in other places, Nashville is on the front end of a movement to reimagine how we might all grow older here. The foundation has also created a small grants program designed to support the effort. Reframing Aging was initiated by the Frameworks Institute, an award-winning think tank in Washington, D.C., to counter societal norms and to reconsider how we approach aging. FiftyForward staff members and approximately 80 other nonprofit and business leaders came together to discuss ways we can reframe our work and language and restate the case for aging. The program was eye-opening. Participants looked to their roots — as individuals and as business professionals — to assess language and counter norms with the ultimate goal of improving lives and the perceptions around aging. Only by understanding and reframing discussions around our everyday language can we break down stereotypes. This effort has been perking along for a while as a few years ago AARP CEO JoAnn Jenkins wrote a highly-acclaimed book “Disrupt Aging.” It’s exciting to watch the passion behind these new efforts, and we hope the momentum continues. FiftyForward has long been an advocate for older adults and their needs. Just over a decade ago, FiftyForward, then Senior Citizens, Inc., changed its name. The change was to embrace the soon-to-be baby boomer audience who would be interested in myriad activities and needed resources for themselves as well as for their aging family members. As advocates for older adults, we are committed to support, champion, and enhance life for those 50 and older. We’ve been doing just that since 1956 and remain focused on the future. We are dedicated to aging positively as we celebrate the wisdom and experience that comes with the passing of years for all of us. We are proud to be part of the Nashville that is once again championing change and challenging the status quo. As a proactive community we owe a nod of thanks to the West End Home Foundation and Oliver for opening the lines of communication to educate and destigmatize aging. Now, let’s watch the trend begin as we work to live true to FiftyForward’s recently launched tagline, “Love life at 50+” tagline. 2
THE 2019 CROWN AFFAIR Community volunteers and leaders Betsy Schubring Crossley, Vicki Hearn Horne, Lelan Statom, and Cigna-HealthSpring were honored as FiftyForward marked its 30th annual Crown Affair held earlier this year. The Crown Affair, the nonprofit’s signature fundraising event, raises funds to benefit the more than 20,000 individuals (older adults, families and children) impacted by FiftyForward each year in Middle Tennessee. The Crown Affair was chaired by Teresa Corlew and Laura Smith, both of whom are former FiftyForward Board members and active community volunteers. Held at the FiftyForward Patricia Hart Building, the 30th annual Crown Affair featured a cocktail reception, silent auction, dinner and awards presentation. Each of this year’s Crown Affair honorees were recognized because they exemplify a giving spirit and are dedicated to serving others, through FiftyForward and also through other nonprofit organizations in the community.
(L-R) This year’s individual Crowning Achievement Award honorees were Lelan Statom, Betsy Schubring Crossley, and Vicki Hearn Horne.
(L-R) Dr. Beth Woodard, past president of the FiftyForward Board of Directors, and Sallie Hussey, executive director of FiftyForward, congratulate Kim Fleming, chief operating officer, Tennessee Market, CignaHealthSpring, as the Corporate Crowning Achievement Award honoree. (L-R) Dr. Jesse Wright, Dr. Meera Wright and Sondra and Doug Cruickshanks share a laugh during the reception.
Passing the Torch The Janet Jernigan Legacy Endowment Fund was a huge success! Honoring Janet for her 29 years of commitment to FiftyForward and her more than 50 years serving the Nashville nonprofit community, donors gave
an astounding total of $552,000 to the endowment. Proceeds raised
through the Janet Jernigan Legacy Fund will be used toward operating support for FiftyForward in perpetuity. Thank you! See the complete list of the Janet Jernigan Legacy Fund at fiftyforward.org/newsroom/pathways/.
(L-R) Janet Jernigan, past president of FiftyForward Board Beth Woodard, and Lifetime FiftyForward Board Member Patricia Hart celebrate Janet’s retirement party and portrait unveiling. 3
Pathways
FiftyForward College Grove
A FiftyForward Publication
CENTER NEWS Thousands of activities take place in our centers and programs across the agency each year. Some of these efforts are perfectly in line with reframing aging. Here’s a snapshot:
Here’s a soundbite from one of our members that is absolutely worth sharing. “I have never set annual goals but this year I did. My goal for 2019 is to put more life in my years. And maybe by doing that I will be adding more years to my life.” — Mark Stewart, member and FiftyForward College Grove Advisory Chair
FiftyForward Bordeaux FiftyForward Bordeaux partnered with Tennessee State University Center for Service Learning and Civic Engagement. Center staff were honored to receive the Community Partner Service Award. The relationship with TSU Community Service Scholars provides a place for intergenerational exchange through conversation, games, fellowship and overall connectedness when students come to the center to engage with our active members.
Hats Off to Bordeaux!
Katie Reed Golf Classic 2019 Named for longtime member and golf enthusiast Katie Reed, the golf classic raises funds for the programs and services of FiftyForward College Grove, a model rural community center for older adults in Williamson County. FiftyForward staff, sponsors and center members take a break from their golf tasks to pose for a picture. (L -R) Teresa McDaniel, Rhonda Rose, Sarah Stephens, Libby Beeson, Ellie Keller (with Tivity Health) and Wanda Atwell.
FiftyForward Martin Center
FiftyForward Martin Center works with members to take ownership of center offerings to spur increased center participation by offering more trips and relevant health programs and by encouraging the development of member-led interest groups. Martin Center members express interest in volunteering and look for increased opportunities for community members to be involved in the center.
It was a full house for the 10th annual Hats Off event. Kudos to (L-R) Patricia Malone Smith, assistant center director; Vicki Yates, guest emcee from NewsChannel 5; Sallie Hussey, FiftyForward executive director; and Melvin Fowler, center director of FiftyForward Bordeaux.
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Martin Masters Art Show featured artist Frank Gee and other artists.
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FiftyForward J. L. Turner Center presented “An Evening at the Disco” in mid-October.
FiftyForward J. L. Turner Center Director Connie Rigsby welcomed John Travolta, (a.k.a. Jordan Uselton, community outreach director for Clarendale at Bellevue Place), to the event and dance floor. The annual dinner and dance benefited the programs and services of the center.
FiftyForward J. L. Turner Center
A Seat at the Table was a joint venture between FiftyForward J. L. Turner Center and the Faith and Culture Center, bringing ambassadors from Our Muslim Neighbor of Nashville to have dinner and conversation with FiftyForward J. L. Turner staff and members. The event brought together people who otherwise might not cross paths. The distinct backgrounds led to honest dialogue without fear or judgment to build meaningful and lasting relationships.
FiftyForward Donelson Station
Bert Kowrach won the FiftyForward Donelson Station Talent Show and now teaches a ukulele class to members. From the first class of students to a group of 37, The Ukesters are budding musicians who have never played an instrument before (a FiftyForward First) but are now playing at center and community events.
FiftyForward Donelson Station Casino Night 2019 Dealers were on
hand to instruct players on the various casino games.
FiftyForward Knowles A relationship series offered at FiftyForward Knowles included topics such as Dating While Gray; Know Your Worth; Tipping the Dating Iceberg; Companionship: Our Souls at Night Movie and Discussion. When referencing the program, several members said it was great to talk in a safe space.
FiftyForward Madison Station Whistlestop 2019
ation
FiftyForward Madison Station continues to be a hub for the community. Responding to a member inquiry about reputable businesses in Madison, the center launched a successful business fair. In addition, the center hosted early voting, bringing in more than 27,000 voters through its doors.
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(L-R) FiftyForward Madison Station Director Brandy Lamb presented the Live Like Gilda Community Service Award to members of Gilda York’s family: Edith Meriwether (mother); Janice Letson (sister) and Bob York (husband). In addition, Taylor Statom, a member of Gilda’s Ambassadors, and his parents, Lelan and Yolanda Statom, were also on hand for the celebration. 5
FiftyForward Madison Station Director Brandy Lamb presented the Member of the Year Award to Nancy Brown.
Pathways A FiftyForward Publication
SUPPORTIVE C ARE PROGRAMS Our programs and services continue to provide resources and advocacy for those we serve. Here are a few highlights from the last year. The testimonial from FiftyForward Adult Day Services participant Larnetta Gully-Abza (page 8) speaks volumes about community need and how our staff members cast a wide net to assist individuals with specialized care and services. Thanks to the Frist Foundation, we have implemented a cloud-based data management system to streamline service, capture and track data, and provide early identification of needs for older adult clients in our Care Management programs.
Earlier this year, our Meals on Wheels program transformed to become FiftyForward Fresh/Meals on Wheels. With the help of our new partner, The Nashville Food Project, menus now include more nutritionally dense food with locally sourced ingredients. The program receives rave reviews from recipients.
The FiftyForward All of Us Research Program continues to build partnerships and engage older adults and the larger community. Vera Coleman, retired Vanderbilt researcher and All of Us Peer Ambassador, is effusive about the program. “I've always believed in the merits of research,” said Coleman. “Now, I have an awesome opportunity to be involved in something that will not only prove beneficial for me, but for my family and community as well. The All of Us Research Program has become my passion!”
VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS
FiftyForward Victory Over Crime In-Home Coordinator Ashlyn Woods attended the grand opening of the Family Safety Center.
FiftyForward Victory Over Crime established and maintained their partnership with the Metro Office of Family Safety. Our Victory Over Crime team now holds regular office hours and provides services to clients at the Family Safety Center, a facility where anyone experiencing interpersonal violence can be connected to resources all under one roof. Through this partnership we can improve services to our Victory Over Crime clients and create more awareness of our program.
(L-R) Beth Sanders, representing CignaHealthSpring, is shown here with members of the Strobel family at the finalists reception.
FiftyForward was honored to have two Mary Catherine Strobel award finalists: Cigna-HealthSpring and the Tennessee School for the Blind. The Strobel awards honor the best in volunteer engagement in the Middle Tennessee region. CignaHealthSpring’s outstanding commitment to FiftyForward Adult Day Services and The Tennessee School for the Blind’s service at FiftyForward Donelson Station were recognized for their significant impact. 6
FiftyForward RSVP’s Friends Learning in Pairs (FLIP) program partnered with the Nashville Adult Literacy Council and Fall-Hamilton Elementary to pilot a multi-generational literacy project engaging English language learners and their parents. The project resulted in significant reading gains for the students enrolled and received high marks from participating parents who developed the necessary tools to support their child’s literacy efforts.
Longtime FLIP volunteer Joan Shayne finds joy in mentoring the next generation.
FINANCIALS
Endowment Board / Advisory Council
July1, 2018 - June 30, 2019
FiftyForward Endowment Board
REVENUES
30% 27%
1% 5% 12%
Contributions
$1,521,145
30%
Government Grants
$1,350,720
27%
Learning and Supportive Programs $1,240,391
25%
Fundraising
$575,949
12%
Facility Rental Fees
$246,512
5%
Other
25%
$68,424 1% $5,003,141 100%
EXPENSES 50%
9% 4% 5%
17% 6%
Personnel
$2,966,536
50%
Occupancy
$1,012,209
17%
Professional Fees
$543,739
9%
Supplies
$342,828
6%
Volunteer Support
$300,690
5%
Other
$262,305 4%
Depreciation
9%
$523,780 9% $5,952,087 100%
Depreciation expense is a non-cash expense. The Corporation for National and Community Service provided $376,818 (63%) in funding for FiftyForward Senior Corps affiliate programs RSVP and Foster Grandparent. $217,638 (37%) of Senior Corps program support was provided by non-government sources.
FiftyForward Board of Directors 2019 -20 Board Officers Pete Stringer, President Theresa Zuckowsky, President-Elect Michelle Baron, Treasurer Lamar Moore, Secretary
Board Members Jimmy Allen Mike Alleyne Neil Amrhein Newtonia Coleman Debbie Crigger Sondra Cruickshanks Dr. Mike Edgeworth Tracy Evers Vanessa Hickman Erin Johnson Dr. Manju Kandula
Dr. Jim Lancaster Javier Martinez Sally McKay Becky Nergenah Sanders William Scarborough Paige Thompson Andrea Turner Cynthia Whitfield-Story Karen E. Williams Dr. Beth Woodard Donna Yurdin
Lifetime Members Patricia Hart In Memoriam Charlie Cardwell Larry Keeton Scott McKean Randy Parham
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Don Greene, President Patty St. Clair, Secretary Ed Carter, Treasurer Steven Boles Seawell Brandau Carolyn Ermey Tony Hoffman Jeremy Kath Mary Herbert Kelly Chris Kirk Mercedes Lytle James McGregor Jana Lisle Parham Greer Redden Honorary Members Joe Chickey
FiftyForward Advisory Council Bill LaFollette, Chair Brenda Albright Clay Bailey Ed Birthright Seawell Brandau Laurel Buntin John W. (Wally) Dant III Betty Dunn Carolyn Ermey Brenda Gilmore Don Greene Dr. Ralf Habermann Irma Kaplan Aileen Katcher Mary Herbert Kelly Heloise W. Kuhn Kim Harvey Looney Tara MacDougall Hilda McGregor Barbara Moss Carla Nelson Emily Plotkin Tracy Rode Anne Roos Lisa Small Laura Smith Denine Torr Sally Wolfe
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
PRSRTSSTD U.S. POSTAGE PAID NASHVILLE, TN PERMIT NO. 1287
174 Rains Avenue, Nashville. TN 37203 615 743-3400 www.fiftyforward.org
In their own words: Adult Day Services participant Larnetta Gully-Abza
FiftyForward Adult Day Services Ms. Regina Baiden/FiftyForward found me in dire straits. God ... using FiftyForward thru Regina pulled me out of the miry clay. My disability check was $1,064 and my rent was $840. Each month I had to choose between food, medicine, doctors, my phone bill or utilities. I had just gotten back from rehab following my second reconstructive spinal surgery and was forced into a non-functional, non-accessible apartment due to renovations. My new apartment was smaller, and I had no room for my things. There were 14 steps which separated me from the parking lot level, this includes struggling with mobility aids (walker and cane) plus whatever else I carried with me. Miss Regina even had trouble finding me to do the initial assessment. Being very transparent in sharing my situation, I produced the unfortunate truth of having NO food by opening my freezer right then and there. Miss Regina began to hand me food she had for those in need. She told me what day I could begin my time at the Adult Day Services, and the food she gave me lasted to that day!!! She got me set up with Miss Sharie (FiftyForward Fresh/Meals on Wheels), 8
ASAP. I went home with emergency meals that day. The Meals-on-Wheels support continues to this day and is still needed. Regina assumed the role of case manager … assisted with income-based and disability housing for which the waiting lists in this city are long … and was able to get me an interview within 30 days. [She introduced me to] a free dental clinic that Meharry was doing and helped me initiate the dental work I desperately needed. Regina has helped restore my lost confidence and self-esteem. She heads a team of caring, dedicated people. I look forward every day coming to hang out with my new friends at FiftyForward Adult Day Services and don't like Friday coming because we gotta wait two whole days before we can come back. People look at me now and find me so different than when I initially joined the program. That's because I’m THRIVING now!