Vivalon Connections February 2021

FEBRUARY 2021 FEBRUARY 2021 vivalon.org

vivalon.org

Whistlestop is now

ISN’T CANCELLED PAGE 2

A Wonderful Journey

PAGE 4

The Right Time to Retire

PAGE 9

Share Your Stories— Loving from a Distance

Laurence Suter-Gunn

VIVALON PERSPECTIVE

BY

Programs Director lsuter-gunn@whistlestop.org JOE O’HEHIR, VIVALON

Jennifer Golbus

A Wonderful Journey

Marketing Strategist jgolbus@whistlestop.org

, CEO

Development Director info@whistlestop.org

Programs Director lsuter-gunn@whistlestop.org

Whistlestop Express Editors 916.751.9189 john.bowman58@gmail.com

, Volunteer Manager volunteer@whistlestop.org

VIVALON CONNECTIONS FEBRUARY 2021

President Vice President Treasurer Secretary

Advertising dmccoy@pacificsun.com Advertising mmisz@pacificsun.com Production kara@metroactive.com

Publisher rolson@pacificsun.com

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WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS O C TO B E R 2 018

Marketing Strategist jgolbus@whistlestop.org

WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS O C TO B E R 2 018

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e de dow John and Val Bowman ime goes by so teaching a group, or will have the benefit of 14/2 14 Whistlestop Express Editors yea quickly. I can’t believe delivering a meal to working with a dynamic 916.751.9189 it’s been 12 years the home of someone board of directors and a home, long an john.bowman58@gmail.com since I joined Whistlestop, in need. Older adults seasoned executive team. since our youn now known as Vivalon.WHISTLESTOP enjoyed conversation I’m confident that VivalonManager is WHISTLESTOP PERSPECTIVE Laurie Vermont , Volunteer 930At Tamalpais first,Avenue like many, I was and connection with one well positioned to continue volunteer@whistlestop.org away, is simply San Rafael, CA 94901 need affordable a bittersweet goodbye familiar only with the other, like listening to a fulfilling its critical missionhousing, and www.whistlestop.org journey, leaving the house that there is a shortfall of Whistlestop buses seen wise 90-year-old telling of providing all adults with Main office open M-F 9am-5pm for two people. we called home the past hundreds of assisted living Front Desk – 415.456.9062our older adult BOARD OF DIRECTORS transporting stories and putting28life into the opportunity to age with years. It’s also been and memory care unitsJoe to O’Hehir Transportation – 415.454.0902 rooms we didn and disabled neighbors in perspective. Alonggreat thisfun to explore independence, dignity and our meet the 2030 demand.

Meals on Wheels – 415.457.4636 President Dennis Ryan, neighborhood near Marin.

I drove numerous wonderful journey,new I gained grace.

One small part of the Help Desk – 415.459.6700 of the yard tha BethOnReizman, Vice IPresident resource@whistlestop.org compassion for others, downtown San Rafael. housing solution in Marin times, by 930 Tamalpais a sincere appreciation this journey To receive the Express by email I can’t help but wonder Tom Bonomi, Treasurer is to support, fund, andmake her the ideal saw,role and decad Rafael,Forhousing for the power of human enjoyed the distinct honor signin up San at whistlestop.org. how much harder it would streamline the process Fabia Butler, Secretary model for aging gracefully. annual subscription mailed toActive your Whistlestop’s Aging connection delivered of working with so many be to do this if we were to create more accessory My retirement home, send $10 to Whistlestop. seemed marks to repr Sharon Jackson Center with no idea what each day by our staff and wonderful people from in our 70s or 80s?

What dwelling units. The new units the beginning of was happening inside. volunteers to the thousands the board, staff, WHISTLESTOP STAFF Robert options are there for Vivalon olderSonnenberg weanother weren’t wat can be for a caregiver, a family journey in my life; one to Joe O’Hehir as their I’ll never forget the of individuals and people their in Marinvolunteers, and donors, member or the homeowner, Cynthia Wuthmann Yvonne Roberts of all, we had a be filled with more family lifestyles change? first palpable feelings who can then rent out the families in Marin County, toWill the Marin Community there be enough resources time, travel, golf, swimming, main house. In San Rafael, of a sense of belongingBy Linda Jackson, especially this past year Foundation, the County Program deserved to be for people who want to PACIFIC SUN STAFF Laurence Suter-Gunn the number of new accessory hiking, and my ongoing Action and warmth within Director, Aging during the COVID-19 of Marin, the City of San grow older in their home dwelling units doubledlifelong last learning quest.

My new, happy fam the walls of the center Initiative pandemic. and the hundreds Danielle McCoy, Advertising and community?Rafael, For those year, and the city is on track Jennifer Golbus wife, Vicki, and I will remain and our transportation The Vivalon board ofdementiaof our community-based facing or declining to double that again. We need dmccoy@pacificsun.com e decided to The challeng contributing community services, when I first health, will theypartners. have what Friendships directors and I spent the forged to do this across Marin! downsize this John and Val Bowman members in Marin, our we mov Marianne Misz, Advertising they need for safety, care arrived. Happiness and past 3 years will last well past my The Aging Action Initiative would year. Our familyplanning and companionship? home for over 30 years. mmisz@pacificsun.com is enthusiastic about San humor resonated in the implementing a retirement date of February home, longand an empty nest The question for Marin wanted a s I will always beWe a proud Rafael City Council’s recent classrooms, lounge and the leadership transition 26.

One most memorable since our youngest ones flew Laurie Vermont Kara Production is: what percentage of Brown, support of assisted living in member of the Vivalon away, is simply too large Jackson Café. Passengers ensuring a smoothresidents path is going relationship involved to choose intoalove neighborh kara@metroactive.com downtown. This new housing for two people.

Therenew wereCEO, Anne family I’ve grown on the Whistlestop buses for our getting to know Pauline to stay in San Rafael as BOARD OF DIRECTORS approval portends well rooms we didn’t go into, parts during this wonderful 12-walk a Rosemary Publisher proposed expressed such gratitude Grey. Anne brings they a wealth who recently grow older?Angleman, According Olson, we can Dennis Ryan, for Whistlestop’s of the yard that we never Beth Reizman, year journey. to a national survey by our drivers. I saw, and decades of knowledge, leadership celebrated heraffordable 112th older adult rolson@pacificsun.com Tomtoward Bonomi, of stuff that restaurants AARP in 2012, about 90% ofHer enduring I express myto love and Fabia Butler, helpful volunteers recall skills and experience in birthday. housing project in downtown seemed to reproduce when Sharon Jackson older adults intend to stay gratitude to you all.

San Rafael.

We are excited cheerfully serving lunch, the nonprofit field.

Anne spirit, energy, humor and Robert Sonnenberg we weren’t watching. Most the movies. Af in their own homes for the OUR MISSION to see new housing options Cynthia Wuthmann of all, we had a home that next 5 to 10 years. for older people in Marin, searching, we deserved to be full with a PACIFIC SUN STAFF People working with Whistlestop believes share a KEY CONTACT INFORMATION especially we in places where new, happy family.

Danielle McCoy, older adults are aware of can VIVALON walkall to services may be the ve responsibility they to ensure Marin The challenge was: Where ACTIVE AGING CENTER TRANSPORTATION CONNECTIONS the issuesSERVICES facing people as and shops and be part of the Marianne Misz, we move to in Marin?

930 Tamalpais Avenue | San Rafael,would CA 94901 Kate Fitzsimmons, Vivalon Connections Editor CarePool Volunteer Driver Program | 415-454-0927 they grow older. residents Will there have an opportunity to age unit in Marin. community.

Closed except for 11:30am-1:00pm lunch take-out 415-472-1499 | kf@fitz-com.com We wanted a smaller place Travel Navigators/Marin Access Eligibility | 415-454-0902 be housing for others who Kara Brown, with dignity, independence and grace.

Aging Action Initiative is Website: Vivalon.org | Email: info@Vivalon.org Jennifer Golbus, Marketing & Communications Schedule a Paratransit Ride | 415-454-0964 in a neighborhood where want to downsize?

Will there No doubt ab a networkjgolbus@vivalon.org of more than 130 Cancel a Paratransit Ridehousing | 415-457-4630 Rosemary we can walk about, close GuestOlson, Services Reception | 415-456-9062 x100 be enough for the organizations, including to restaurants, shops, and MEMBERSHIP Volunteer Opportunities | 415-456-9067 people who work in Marin process of dow PACIFIC STAFF Whistlestop, that SUN addresses Discounts on lunch in the Jackson Café and on all the movies.

After months of Resource Office | 415-459-6700 – those who are caregivers, OUR MISSION Rosemary Publisher | rolson@pacificsun.com community issues Olson, through classes, programs, eventsmanagers, and room rentals. searching, we found what healthcare and daunting. It to Whistlestop believes we share a Kara Brown, Production | kara@metroactive.com JACKSON CAFÉ the lens of aging.

It focuses may be the very last new responsibility to ensure all Marin LIKE US Membership is $20/year.

Call 415-456-9062 for details. homecare experts?

What Monday–Friday | To-Go Only: 11:30AM to 1:00PM on findingTO ways to age-inresidents have an opportunity to age unit in Marin.

ADVERTISE PLEASE CONTACT: of sorting, a m about low-incomeon people who Facebook with dignity, independence and grace. community, and MEAL DELIVERY SERVICES No doubt about it, theOUR MISSION Daniellehaving McCoy, Advertising | danielle@pacificsun.com need affordable housing, economic security, a place to Vivalon Nourish | 415-456-9062 x176process of downsizing isVivalon believes of millennials, we share a responsibility or people who need extra to ensure all call home, and transportation Meals on Wheels Eligibility (Marin County) Marin residents have anassisted opportunity to age with dignity, daunting. It took months care, like living or LIKE US 415-473-4636 for older adults. boxes to give a independence and grace. of sorting, a moving crew memory care? The recent on Facebook of millennials, and many report, Older Adult Housing For information, check out donate things LIKE US on Facebook! boxes to give away andWant to receive Connections at home? in Marin: Planning for Send $10 to Vivalon for an annual delivered print subscription, www.agingactioninitiative.org facebook.com/VivalonMarin donate things we don’t or sign up at2030, that 7,000 at support@ Cover Art By: Missy Reynolds need anymore Vivalon.org for a free email version. or contact Sami 2 2estimated of today’s older residents agingactioninitative.org. need anymore. It’s been

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CEO

By Linda Jack Director, Agin Initiative

Love Isn’t Cancelled

BY DIEGO MADERA

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Bill Crissman

them seniors, handstamp each individual Valentine envelope, whether remailed or purchased from the Loveland Chamber of Commerce. This year Chamber Ambassadors will do the job, keeping our seniors safe.”

Loveland is celebrating its 75th year as the Sweetheart City. If you want to send a specially designed Valentine’s card and envelope, you can buy one (or more) from the Loveland Chamber of Commerce for $7 dollars each. Check out their Facebook page for details. https:// www.facebook.com/ sweetheartcityvalentine

Want to start your own tradition?

To have your Valentines re-mailed from the “Sweetheart City” post office, mail to:

Postmaster Attn: Jackie or Valentine Re-mailing 446 E. 29th Street Loveland, CO 80538-9998

VIVALON CONNECTIONS FEBRUARY 2021

illiam Crissman, a Vivalon member, shared a delightful practice that could become your own tradition. He said, “Loveland, Colorado is a place with special Valentine’s Day traditions.

Each year, their Post Office gets lots of requests to remail Valentine cards from their Post Office. I haven’t done it for about 5 years, but I plan to do it this year.

They do it at no cost to the people who want to have their cards re-mailed with the Loveland postmark.”

Crissman explained, “I make out regular Valentines, put them in their envelopes that I address and put on the proper postage and place all of those Valentines in a larger manila envelope.

This year I will probably include twenty Valentines.

Then I address that larger envelope, adhere the proper postage and mail it to the Loveland post office.”

Jackie, with the Loveland Post Office advised, “All the cards are hand-cancelled but please don’t add any extras, like gift cards, checks or cash.

Those complicate the process. Ordinarily, dozens of volunteers, most of

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Laurie’s Right Time to Retire Laurie Vermont came to Vivalon in 2013, with a rich mix of experience in Marin nonprofit work, from the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce to the Italian Street Painting Festival. She served as Vivalon’s Volunteer Services Program Manager through 2020. She is retiring and we will miss her creativity, dedication and ready smile.

Laurie Vermont

VIVALON CONNECTIONS FEBRUARY 2021

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’ve enjoyed a long and rich career working in the Marin Community serving a number of fine organizations and my time with Vivalon stands out as a heartfelt highlight. 2020 was a difficult and unusual year, full of challenges and changes for everyone.

Change rarely comes free of mixed emotions and the change I have chosen in my own life is no exception. Although I have so enjoyed working with everyone these past 7 years, the extreme changes due to the pandemic compelled me to consider this as the right time to retire and pursue my existing passions and undiscovered interests.

I will miss all the volunteers, colleagues

and the wonderful times we have shared, the camaraderie and satisfaction we’ve had serving our community. I have truly loved my time at Vivalon and am proud of the volunteer teams I recruited and nurtured during my time here.

Walking away from a meaningful, positive working environment is not easy. I am already missing all of our celebrations including the Holiday Tea Party and the April volunteer appreciation party and wish we could have had one more blast of a goodbye party before my leaving. Unfortunately, that cannot happen now but I will keep everyone close to my heart and possibly we can reunite sometime in the future to celebrate a reopening world.

I want everyone to know that each and every one of you holds a special place in my heart. These past 7 years have been very important to me and I will treasure them always.

(If you would like to wish Laurie well, visit her farewell site: Tinyurl.com/ FarewellLaurie)

Stay home. Let us bring quality medical care to you.

Our care teams can help you safely: • Recover from surgery • Manage chronic illness • Cope with end-of-life transitions

Call (415) 927.2273 • www.hbtb.org Skilled Home Health Care • Palliative (Comfort) Care • Hospice

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Schedule a Tour

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Pull out this section as your monthly reference guide to classes, workshops & activities

WEEKLY VIRTUAL ACTIVITIES ● Vivalon Classes & Activities ● Partner Classes & Activities

INFO

FEE

Phone/zoom

FREE

MONDAYS

CLASS

9:00-10:00AM Tai Chi ● (Vivalon) 10:30AM-12:00PM Talking Tech 4 Seniors ● (Vivalon) 10:30AM-12:30PM Watercolors with Debra ● (Age-Friendly Center)

12:30-1:20PM Improving Relationships ● (Lou Walker Center)

1:00-2:00PM Stretching with Pam ● (Age-Friendly Center)

1:00-2:20PM Drawing ● (Lou Walker Center)

1:30-2:30PM Mind-Body Health ● (YMCA)

TUESDAYS

TIME

10:00–11:00AM BINGO ● (Vivalon) 11:00AM–12:00PM Whistlesizers ● (Vivalon) 11:00AM–12:00PM Chair Yoga with Rayner ● (Age-Friendly Center)

12:00–1:20PM Simply Sewing ● (Lou Walker Center)

Phone/zoom Phone/ zoom Phone/ zoom Phone/ zoom

FREE FREE FREE FREE

WEDNESDAYS

9:00–10:00AM Yoga with Weights with Jane ● (Age-Friendly Center) 10:00–10:45AM Zumba Wednesdays ● (Vivalon) 10:30AM-12:30PM Watercolors with Debra ● (Age-Friendly Center) 11:00AM-12:00PM Ukulele – Beginner ● (Vivalon) 12:00AM-12:50PM Senior Strength ● (YMCA)

12:30-1:30PM Ukulele – Intermediate ● (Vivalon)

1:00-1:50PM Healthy Cooking ● (Lou Walker Center)

1:00–2:00PM Chair Exercises with Pam ● (Age-Friendly Center)

Phone/ zoom Phone/ zoom Phone/ zoom Phone/ zoom zoom Phone/ zoom Phone/ zoom Phone/ zoom

FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE

10:30AM-12:30PM Acrylics ● (Age-Friendly Center) 11:00AM–12:00PM Whistlesizers ● (Vivalon) 11:00AM-12:00PM Hula Thursdays ● (Vivalon)

1:00–2:00PM Chair Yoga with Jane ● (Age-Friendly Center) Senior Feldenkrais ● (YMCA) 1:00–1:50PM

Phone/ zoom Phone/ zoom Phone/ zoom Phone/ zoom zoom

FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE

12:00–12:50PM Play & Sing Guitar ● (Lou Walker Center)

3:00–4:00PM Yoga Fridays ● (Vivalon)

Phone/ zoom FREE Phone/ zoom FREE

Phone/ zoom FREE Phone/ zoom FREE Phone/ zoom FREE Phone/ zoom FREE zoom FREE

FRIDAYS

THURSDAYS

For more information regarding the classes and activities above, please see descriptions on pages 6-8.

JANUARY For more information In the regarding SPOTLIGHT the following announcements, please call Vivalon Guest Services: 415-456-9062.

Closures Healthy Aging Center Closed Monday, February 15 Talking Tech 4 Seniors – Free Why Zoom? Which apps are right for me? Want to demystify technology while creating more meaningful social connections? You’ll learn tips and tricks to use a computer, or other devices, and access the internet to better connect with family, friends and virtual communities. Zoom opens a world of classes and activities for exercise, learning, online tours and fun.

Join our virtual classes over 8 weeks starting with the very basics and building up your tech knowledge as you go.

Beginners join from the start.

If you are an intermediate, join just the classes you need.

Seniors rule, but everyone is welcome!

COVID-19 Vaccine Visit Marin Health and Human Services’ COVID-19 website, to see who is being vaccinated. Get answers to FAQs. Learn vaccine Facts and Myths. https://coronavirus. marinhhs.org/vaccine

VIVALON CONNECTIONS FEBRUARY 2021

HAPPENINGS@VIVALON

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Please visit Vivalon.org/classes or Vivalon call Vivalon Guest Services at VIRTUAL 415-456-9062 for information on C L A S S E S how to register for the following Virtual Classes & Activities. &ACTIVITIES

Ukulele, Beginner Wednesdays 11:00am – 12:00pm Ukulele, Intermediate Wednesdays 12:30pm – 1:30pm Practice songs in group form, tune your Ukulele, and rock out with Sandy via Zoom.

Talking Tech 4 Seniors Mondays Various times (February 1 – March 29)

Bingo Tuesdays 10:00am – 11:00am Join Penny Markrack and Diego Madera every Tuesday at 10:00am for Bingo! You can join via phone or zoom. Registration is required.

There will be at least three rounds played with a gift sent to each winner. We hope you can join us!

Financial Advice (Free) Wednesdays 10:00am – 11:30am by appointment Peter Tabet, CLU, ChFC, AEP, MBA, brings a wide-ranging portfolio of education, experience, skills, and interests to his career in insurance and financial services. Please call Vivalon Guest Services at 415-456-9062 to schedule your appointment.

Hula Thursdays 11:30am – 12:00pm

VIVALON CONNECTIONS FEBRUARY 2021

Practice the Hawaiian spiritual dance form known as Hula (Auana), with Charlotte Kobayashi. With its slow and relaxing nature, Hula allows for all to participate.

Occasionally, this class may extend beyond the 30 minutes as needed.

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Valentine Painting Tuesday, February 2, 2:00pm, via Zoom An artist from Flow Art will guide you through the steps to create a painting based on LOVE. All supplies will be delivered to you at your home prior to the event.

Expect to have a relaxing and creative time, celebrating Valentine’s Day and interacting with the community virtually. Zoom information will be sent once registered with guest services, 415-456-9062. $5 for supplies. A $30 value, Vivalon will be subsidizing $25!

Valentine’s Day Zoom Friday, February 12, 1:30pm – 2:30pm All you need is LOVE! Each year, we take time to spend with our loved ones. Kindly join us on Zoom to celebrate Valentine’s Day, Friday, February 12. Let us celebrate love! Zoom information available at vivalon. org. Be sure to RSVP by Tuesday, February 9. There will be games with exciting prizes!

Virtual classes over 8 weeks starting with the very basics and building up your tech knowledge as you go. Join from the start if you are a true beginner or if you are already familiar with how to use a computer, join just the classes you need.

Feb 1, 10:30am–12:00pm: Intro to Digital Literacy (Part 1) Feb 8, 10:30am–12:00pm: Intro to Digital Literacy (Part 2) Feb 22, 10:30am–12:00pm: Understanding Your iPad/ iPhone (Part 1) Mar 1, 10:30am–12:00pm: Understanding Your iPad/iPhone (Part 2) Mar 8, 10:30am–12:00pm: Computer Basics for PC (Part 1) Mar 8, 1:00pm–2:30pm: Computer Basics for Mac (Part 1) Mar 15, 10:30am–12:00pm: Computer Basics for PC (Part 2) Mar 15, 1:00pm–2:30pm: Computer Basics for Mac (Part 2) Mar 22, 10:30am–12:00pm: Intermediate Computer (Part 1) Mar 29, 10:30am–12:00pm: Intermediate Computer (Part 2) Whistlesizers Tuesdays & Thursdays 11:00am – 12:00pm Activate your muscles with tips and exercise routines specifically created for the aging body. Have your chair ready and your phone on speaker for Elizabeth Lynn’s Whistlesizers class.

Yoga Fridays 3:00pm – 4:00pm Namaste everyone! Time to re-center and replenish your energy with Kelly! Stretch, meditate, and join the virtual class from the comfort of your living room.

Zumba Wednesdays 10:00am – 10:45am Do you like to exercise to music? How about trying Jimna’s virtual Zumba class? Join Jimna for a rhythmic and fun workout!

Age Friendly Intergenerational Center They offer a variety of classes including watercolor, chair yoga and many others. An age-friendly world enables people of all ages to actively participate in community activities and treats everyone with respect, regardless of their age. We encourage you to take a look at what’s available and sign up for these FREE classes and events: agefriendlycenter.org/classes Healthy@Home This dynamic partnership between Vivalon and Ayaplaces hosted several successful online workshops on healthy aging topics in 2020. It’s a virtual smorgasbord of expert-led topics: Home Safety, Decluttering & Reorganizing, Gardening for Life, Kitchen Safety & Accessibility, The Mind Diet, Cooking for One Holistic Healing with CBD, Pleasure is Ageless and much more! Check out our archive of recorded sessions at AyaPlaces.com/video-archive.

Highway61 Vivalon has partnered with Highway61 to offer you real-time conversation groups, including Aging Alone Support Group, Trivia, French Culture, Entrepreneurs Circle, Opera, Classic Movies, and more. Older adults from all over the US are on Highway61 and it is a great way to stay connected. To attend one of the virtual discussion groups, in an email let them know you are with Vivalon and send your request to info@highway61.com. They will send you a code which will allow you to join the group.

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) Vivalon has partnered with Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) to offer their classes to Vivalon members at no additional membership cost. Course fees still apply. To find out more, call 415-458-3763 or visit olli@dominican.edu YMCA The YMCA of San Francisco has a great selection of Virtual Classes for older adults. Please visit their website for more information: ymcasf.org/virtual-senior-offerings

Lou Walker Senior Center Lou Walker Senior Center offers spaces and amenities to meet the needs and interests of today’s active older adults with activities that stimulate the mind and body.

Join free classes via zoom with their members! *All classes are Eastern Standard Time*: louwalkercenter. com/online-schedule/

Create Valentine’s Day Cards for our Meals on Wheels & Nourish Clients We forget how meaningful it can be to send or receive a handwritten card. If you’d like to help us brighten someone’s Valentine's Day, we are asking for card donations.

All cards should be handmade, in unsealed envelopes addressed to: Dear Neighbor/Friend.

Cards are due on Friday, January 22.

Jackson Café Valentine’s Day Meal – $8 Friday, February 12, 11:30am – 1:00pm Stop by the Jackson Café to pick up your Valentine’s Day meal. Enjoy sautéed boneless chicken breast fillets in a pink champagne sauce with artichoke hearts, mushrooms, and asparagus.

This special meal made with love also includes a dessert — chocolate decadence with a red raspberry sauce!

Personalize Your Home Care with HomeWell™ Home care is never a one-size-fits-all solution. Our holistic approach to home care provides a personalized experience based on individual needs—ensuring a better quality of life, wherever you call home.

Call HomeWell of the North Bay for a free assessment at 415-599-4333 to learn more. ųƚŸƋåÚ ±ųåţ 8VYI (SQTEWWMSR | homewellcares.com a

©2020 HomeWell Senior Care, Inc. All rights reserved. Rev0220

VIVALON CONNECTIONS FEBRUARY 2021

For more information on how to register for the following Partner Vivalon Virtual Classes & Activities, please PARTNER visit Vivalon.org/classes or call PROGRAMS Vivalon Guest Services at 415-456-9062.

License Number 214700009

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Caring Connections

Vivalon is proud to partner with LITA (Love Is the Answer) to offer Caring SOCIAL Connections, matching volunteers PROGRAMS with homebound older adults for weekly social visits. Meetings normally take place in the home, but during the pandemic, the visits are taking place by phone or through doors and windows with proper physical distancing and face coverings. If you would like to participate in Caring Connections, contact Erika Vaughn at 415-456-9062 x176.

Vivalon

Looking for Looking for Looking for Social Connection?

Social Connection?

Social Connection?

Vivalon has you covered! covered!

Vivalon Connection? has you Social Vivalon has you covered!

with a new friend Connect on the phone VivalonConnect has you covered!

Connect with a new friend Connect on the phone in-person, physically for a chat with a friendly,

Join a virtual class!

Join a virtual class!

All Vivalon classes are free All Vivalon are free Joinclasses virtual class!

Join a class!

Join aa virtual virtual class! through December 2020! through December 2020!

All Vivalon Vivalon classes are free free All classes are Join a virtual class!

All Vivalon classes are free through December 2020! through All VivalonDecember classes are2020! free through December 2020! through December 2020!

in-person, Connect withphysically new friend friend Connect with new Connect with aathis new friend distanced ata time. distanced this friend time. in-person, physically in-person, Connect withat aphysically new in-person, physically distanced at this time. distanced at this time. in-person, physically distanced at this time. distanced at this time.

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Social Call

Lilli Dreyer receives a social call once a week. She discovered the social calls program because, “I have my toe in the volunteer world of Marin, as president of Vision Impaired of Marin. I look forward to the social call visits. My volunteer is a very good listener. What I find interesting about the phone calls is that she is very good about getting me to open up. She never imposes her situation on me at all. In fact, I have to pry things out of her with specific questions. We talk about everything from the weather to traffic to the state of the world.

Talking with her is very pleasurable.”

Lilli added, “Yes, I’d recommend the calls to others. Just getting them to talk about things other than themselves with somebody new, or to unburden themselves, which I think often happens, too, is such a good thing. Reaching out can be hard, picking up the phone is easy!”

CONNECTIONMAKES MAKES THE THE DIFFERENCE. CONNECTION THEDIFFERENCE. DIFFERENCE. CONNECTION DIFFERENCE. CONNECTION MAKES Meet newfriends friends and and create create vital social Meet new and vital social Meet createaaavital vital social Meet new friends social connection during this time of isolation. connection during this time of isolation. connection during this time of isolation. connection isolation.

Visitvivalon.org/classes vivalon.org/classes Visit vivalon.org/classes Visit orCall Call 415-456-9062 415-456-9062 or Call 415-456-9062 or to Learn Learn More More or Sign Sign Up to Learn Moreor or SignUp Up

Vivalon|||930 930Tamalpais TamalpaisAve Ave| ||San SanRafael Rafael| |(415) | (415) (415)456-9062 456-9062| vivalon.org vivalon.org Vivalon 930 Tamalpais Ave San Rafael 456-9062 || vivalon.org Vivalon

Vivalon 456-9062 || vivalon.org vivalon.org Vivalon || 930 930 Tamalpais Ave | San Rafael | (415) 456-9062

Social Call in Marin County is a partnership between Covia and Vivalon. To join Social Call please call Vivalon Guest Services at 415-456-9062.

VIVALON CONNECTIONS FEBRUARY 2021

HAPPINESS CARE PACKAGES

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This winter, members of the Mission Rafael Girl Scout Service Unit made sure homebound and chronically ill residents throughout Marin knew someone was thinking about them during the holiday season. The Unit which supports over 40 troops throughout San Rafael, partnered with Vivalon to donate 200 hand-made holiday cards, and 100 decorative grocery bags filled with dry packaged and canned foods donated by Girl Scout members, families, friends, and other community members — all benefiting Vivalon Nourish and Vivalon Meals on Wheels nutrition programs. They plan a similar effort for Valentine’s Day!

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Please share your “Loving from a Distance” stories!

We are all seeking effective ways to celebrate, connect and take stock of the precious moments we share with loved ones. For some, this time and new technology is allowing us to feel closer to those we love who live in other cities, states and even countries.

Whether you are enjoying small family pod gatherings outdoors with the aid of heated lamps or fire pits, or sharing time on Zoom, we’d like to know how you are celebrating life now.

Please send us your digital photos and a brief description of the special ways you are loving from a distance. We’ll share them in an upcoming issue. Email to info@vivalon.org or call us at 415-456-9062.

♥ 24 Hour Elder Care ♥ Family Environment 2 blocks from Downtown San Anselmo 46 Mariposa Ave. San Anselmo

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Be a Local He ro!

Are you under the age of 65?

Dust off your cape and sign up today for our CarePool Volunteer Driver program!

WHISTLESTOP IS NOW

For more info or to sign up, email

carepool@vivalon.org Sign or call: 415-456-0927 Up!

VIVALON CONNECTIONS FEBRUARY 2021

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t is hard to imagine a stranger time in life. We are searching for ways to stay connected, while we shelter apart.

Celebrating birthdays, holidays and special occasions are just as important as our time to grieve for those we’ve lost. People are doing everything online from getting married, to throwing virtual parties to organizing memorial services to celebrate a life.

CNN ran an online article on 50 Ways to Celebrate a Birthday During the Pandemic. Think about things like taking a virtual class, special meal treats, selfcare and consideration for housemates.

They also mentioned safe celebrations we can do from a distance yet, interact with a large group of friends and family through platforms like Zoom.

Assisted Living at its Best!

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LOVE LETTERS This month, we are saying farewell to two beloved members of our Vivalon family. Joe O’Hehir is retiring on his 70th birthday after leading Vivalon as CEO for 12 years. Laurie Vermont is also retiring after seven years as Volunteer Services manager. We asked our members, volunteers and staff to send their ”love letters” for Joe and Laurie, so we can send them off with a big virtual hug.

To Joe

Joe’s signature style of visionary leadership and heartfelt empathy leaves an indelible legacy embedded in Vivalon’s ideals for the future.

To Laurie

VIVALON CONNECTIONS FEBRUARY 2021

– Clif Crowder, Driver

Joe is fun to collaborate with, insightful, patient, and compassionate. He cares about people and it shows. It has been a pleasure working with him over the past 12 years!

Joe, thank you for all of your support and encouragement in my life and in the lives of our older adults. Thank you for putting your trust in me.

Your continuous support and motivation made me into the manager that I am today. I will miss you!! God bless you and I will always love you!

–Yvonne Roberts, Chief Donor Relations Officer

– Erika Vaughn, Meals on Wheels and Nourish Manager

Joe has shown me nothing but kindness and warmth since my first day on the job. His love and dedication to the Vivalon employees and the population we serve will be dearly missed.

What I love about Joe is first and foremost his selflessness. I also love that while he has a tough enough shell to be hard on the outside so we can take on challenging issues, at the same time he has a very soft, tender underbelly. He is simply a sweet soul.

– Althea Boxley, Contract Services Coordinator

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Joe, going to miss those monthly meetings informative chats you always seem to give so well.

You truly are “Mr. Whistlestop.” Enjoy your golf, you deserve it!

Joe’s passion for Vivalon’s mission is a wonderful gift to his team, the organization and our community.

– Nancy Geisse, Chief Operating Officer To me, Joe is an absolute jewel. I can’t say enough good things about that gentleman, and that word befits him: he is a true gentleman. He has been a fantastic friend to me, he is loved by all of the older adults at Vivalon because we are all family there, and I wish we didn’t have to see him go!

– Andy Guralas, Vivalon Member

– Dennis Ryan, Board President To me, Joe is a compassionate man. His wisdom, gleaned through much life experience, is ever focused through that single lens of ‘caring for others.’

What you always get from Joe is warmth of heart, that he loves life and loves people.

– Mark Haberstroh, Vivalon Rides Safety Manager I love Joe’s passion and vision for Vivalon — he is always ahead of what our community most needs — and is able to execute and make an impact.

– Beth Reizman, Board Secretary

To Joe

– Ashley Baker, Chief People Officer

...JOE HAS ALWAYS BEEN TOTALLY COMMITTED TO THE TASK OF SUPPORTING MARIN’S AGING COMMUNITY.

Joe’s easy-going manner always gave us a sense of calm. His quick smile and sense of humor will be greatly missed.

– Stacy Scott and Chuck Ciaccio, Jackson Café

When I heard Joe was retiring, I had two thoughts: Joe is a terrific guy and we will miss his caring and important leadership. The second thought was Joe will now have time to see his grandchildren, play golf and when the time is right travel near and far. Thank you, Joe, for your many years of service to the Marin seniors!

– Penny Markrack, Guest Services Over the last 17 years, l have been involved with Vivalon as a volunteer and supporter. During those years, Joe was always a “cheerleader” and his appreciation shown through his kind words. He is a great leader and showed his devotion to the growth of Vivalon. I wish him only the best in his retirement.

– Molly Hynes, Vivalon Volunteer I particularly love the fact that, first and foremost, Joe has always been totally committed to the task of supporting Marin’s aging community. In everything I ever heard him say, I could sense how earnest he is in pursuing that goal and how proud he is of Vivalon’s role in that effort. I’m quite sure that even though he’s leaving Vivalon, we’ll continue to hear about his community involvement in other ways.

– Guy Egger, Senior Operations Manager, Vivalon Rides

To Laurie

Laurie’s energy, talent and creativity served as the heartbeat of Vivalon, connecting loving volunteers with their passion to help others.

I truly admired your engagement in the Vivalon mantra for supporting our Marin seniors’ need to “age with dignity” and your special support for our little “tech lab in the corner.” Also, the way you set up those real upbeat volunteer appreciation gatherings gave each of us “realtime” experience socializing with that incredibly enormous, diverse corps of other Vivalon volunteers. It was a great feeling to see I was actually part of a far greater body of volunteers — all focusing on the same goals for helping Marin seniors deal with their own special life challenges. Thanks Laurie for making that experience a real one for all of us. You’ll be missed — a lot.

– Frank Cassou, Computer Lab Congratulations on your retirement! I hope you enjoy all your new adventures. Thank you for “hiring” me for my first volunteer job after I retired.

I really enjoyed working in the café on Mondays. Thank you for all your hard work. I know everyone in the Vivalon family will miss you. Best wishes for your “new life.”

– Theani Louskos, Jackson Café Congratulations on making a good decision for yourself. I applaud you. You have been such a wonderful part of Vivalon, holding it together, and providing your wonderful spirit and joie de vivre.

Keep in touch, I may just decide to go the same route!

– Susan Woodrum, Resource Office There is a proper time for everything. This pandemic has helped people evaluate so many things. I am glad to hear that you are going to pursue your passions, whatever they may be. I will definitely miss you if I ever get back to volunteering!

Take good care and enjoy the new chapter in your life.

– Vivian Malcy, Ping Pong instructor During your time at Vivalon ministering to those in need, you have shown leadership, grace, generosity, and a genuine empathy. You have inspired, we have learned. You will be leaving Vivalon but your legacy will remain. Please know your time with us has made a difference — all the best to you!

– Dr. John Noren, Volunteer

VIVALON CONNECTIONS FEBRUARY 2021

You are a leader who empowers and trusts your team, yet you’re there when needed with support, guidance and ideas. Your strong focus on the vision for the future allows you to lead in a way that isn’t disheartened by challenges or obstacles. Your commitment to our organization and your confidence in our success is inspiring.

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WAYS Vivalon 930 Tamalpais Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901-3325

A Tribute to Joe

BY YVONNE ROBERTS, CHIEF DONOR RELATIONS OFFICER

VIVALON CONNECTIONS FEBRUARY 2021

A

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about and support us each year! Of s I reflect over the past 12 years, I feel honored to course, this is due to the great work have worked with such a the organization accomplishes, but it charismatic, warm, intelligent and is also because of Joe’s integrity and thoughtful leader. I worked with ability to share the strength of his Joe for virtually his entire time as vision.

CEO, having started on the Board Joe has mattered. He knew how of Directors shortly after he became to make a difference from the very CEO. beginning. He Joe created also knows a work the impact of environment an effective where staff, leadership volunteers, and transition. He’s consultants felt leaving us supported and with a legacy appreciated by of visionary having an open leadership door policy and that guided regular staff Joe O’Hehir and Yvonne Roberts us through and volunteer challenging meetings. He times and positioned the encouraged us and modeled his high organization to flourish. He led with standards of professionalism. Leading genuine kindness, a quality that by example, he encouraged us to earned him respect and admiration. work together and to be open to new He loves this community and he possibilities. will be dearly missed. He should be He instilled community very proud of his accomplishments, I confidence as well. In 2008 Vivalon know I am. THANK YOU, JOE! had 600 unique donors. Today we have over 3,600 people who care

TO MAKE A

DIFFERENCE SCHEDULE A RECURRING DONATION Direct your bank to automatically transfer your donation or call 415-456-9062 X4800.

MAKE AN HONOR OR MEMORIAL DONATION We will send a card in honor or memoriam in your name.

DONATE YOUR VEHICLE We accept automobiles, boats, motorcycles, RVs etc. Call 833-VIVALON (833-848-2566) DOUBLE YOUR DONATION Check with your employer to see if they will match your donation or your volunteer time.

MAKE A PLANNED GIFT Name Vivalon in your will, trust or as a beneficiary of an annuity, life insurance policy, IRA or retirement plan.

VOLUNTEER Become a CarePool Volunteer Driver Deliver Meals on Wheels Teach a Class MAIL A DONATION (Check or Credit Card) Mailing Address: Vivalon | 930 Tamalpais Ave. San Rafael, CA 94901 Vivalon.org/Donate 415-456-9062 X4800