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yPathways Fall 2015
Established in 1956, FiftyForward enriches the lives of those 50+ by providing pathways to health, well-being and lifelong learning.
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FiftyForward Donelson Station gives Joe Durkin a sense of community by Rachel Novak
When Joe Durkin retired, an unfamiliar lull crept into his life. Since leaving the hustle and bustle of the business world, he felt lost and struggled with loneliness. A neighbor offered to give Joe and his wife, Jane, a tour of FiftyForward Donelson Station. The Durkins halfheartedly agreed, not knowing what to expect. Within his first few minutes at the center, Joe was pleasantly surprised to find an active, inviting community. Everybody seemed happy: happy to be there and happy to meet him. “The ‘Station’ had everything I could want in a community,” he said. FiftyForward Donelson Station provided Joe the welcoming, friendly fellowship he desperately needed. Now you can find Joe at Donelson Station three to four times per week exercising or chatting with his fellow members. Developing friendships has been his favorite part of joining FiftyForward. Some of these friendships have taken root and extend outside FiftyForward to dinner and lunch parties.
members sang happy birthday to Joe and his fellow celebrants, his eyes became misty. Cakes and parties were never a part of his childhood birthdays. “It was the best present they could have given me. It meant the world and more.” The Durkins enjoy spending as much time as possible at Donelson Station and volunteering their time to the organization has restored their sense of belonging. Joe even relived some of his busy business days by serving as the president of Donelson Station’s Advisory Council last year.
Joe Durkin is shown here with FiftyForward Donelson Station Director Angela Bryant, standing, and Program Director Lisa Maddox.
To him, the staff is the icing on the cake. “Every member feels included at FiftyForward where they receive nothing but kindness and patience,” said Joe. “Without them, I would never have had such an incredible experience here.” Receiving a slice of cake and happy birthday wishes are his favorite center memory. The center hosts monthly birthday celebrations. As his fellow FiftyForward members and family 1
Joe’s life is now filled with activities he never imagined he would enjoy in retirement. Loneliness has been replaced with friendships, guidance and a sense of purpose. “It helped me get back in the game of life,” said Joe. FiftyForward Donelson Station staff and volunteers are gearing up for the annual Fall Festival & BBQ fundraiser Sept. 25-27. Dollars raised will help Joe and his fellow members continue to enjoy the many programs and services the center offers. Join us at Donelson Station, won’t you? Rachel Novak was a summer intern in the FiftyForward Development Department. She’s studying public relations at Belmont University.