Stay abreast of our successes by reading the quarterly Forward Focus available at our centers, public libraries, hi-rise residences, select Kroger stores, and many business locations. We also invite you to visit our ever-expanding website, www.fiftyforward.org.
yPathways Summer 2016
Founded in 1956, FiftyForward enriches the lives of those 50+ by providing pathways to health, well-being and lifelong learning.
y
A Publication of
®
Since 1956, we’ve been enriching those 50+
FiftyForward Victory Over Crime helps victims become survivors By Gabrielle Owen
Older adults who are victims of a crime – including neglect, financial exploitation, domestic violence, mail and phone fraud, burglary, or physical abuse – might hesitate to ask for help because they may already feel more compromised due to age, disability or lack of support. FiftyForward Victory Over Crime (VOC) helps break down barriers to receiving support following victimization to help older adults regain independence and security. VOC staff members assist their clients to become more aware of surroundings and the intentions of others including how to how to cope after being victimized, knowing what to expect if the criminal justice system is involved, and learning to avoid additional victimization. They support and guide clients through the legal process, such as accompanying victims to court appointments and ensuring the victim does not have to face the abuser alone. The goal
1956 First board of directors formed FiftyForward (then named Senior Citizens, Inc.) and begins formal operations.
1965 Foster Grandparent Program begins.
in each case is for the client to have a restored sense of security. The program encourages and supports each individual’s independence. Ms. H. (name withheld due to confidentiality) has experienced this firsthand since she connected with VOC last June. The 91-yearold was a victim of a mail scam. She was deceived into sending people money because she was told her gifts would benefit an organization that helps people and/or animals. Then, someone she trusted offered to help her recover the dollars Ms. H. sent to the criminal party, but that person financially victimized her, too. Ms. H. has a trusting nature, and the VOC team worked with the Postmaster General’s office to have the mail scam notices stopped. In addition, they have spent countless hours working with her financial institutions, filing paperwork to establish that her money was fraudulently withdrawn from her account. The VOC staff also worked with the police department, specifically the detective assigned
1966 FiftyForward moves into J.B. Knowles Center at 1801 Broadway.
1
Victory Over Crime Director Lauren Angulo takes a referral call from a potential client.
to her case, to check the status of the investigation and to offer additional assistance. VOC In-Home Specialist Alexandra Marcotte visits Ms. H. approximately once a week to help with banking needs, ensure her living environment is safe and to transport her to medical appointments. Once each month, the VOC staff tries to provide Ms. H. with a FiftyForward First, an agency initiative challenging adults 50+ to try new things. In December, through the generosity of a local beauty supply store, Ms. H. received (Continued on page 2)
1969 FiftyForward Meals on Wheels Program is organized.
1972 FiftyForward Adult Day Services program begins at FiftyForward Knowles.