Vivalon Express October 2020

OCTOBER 2020 vivalon.org

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All About Our New Name

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Three Emergency Programs Available

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New! Whistlestop Wheels by Vivalon

By Linda Jack Laurence Suter-Gunn Director, Agin Programs Director lsuter-gunn@whistlestop.org Initiative

BY JOE O’HEHIR, VIVALON CEO info@whistlestop.org

VIVALON PERSPECTIVE

Jennifer Golbus

Our Commitment to You Will Never Change Marketing Strategist jgolbus@whistlestop.org

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, 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 EXPRESS OCTOBER 2020

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

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

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e de dow John and Val Bowman 14/2 14 Whistlestop Express Editors yea 916.751.9189 home, long an john.bowman58@gmail.com since our youn he Whistlestop WHISTLESTOP known for. Our nutrition emergency.

It’s, Volunteer in our Manager WHISTLESTOP PERSPECTIVE Laurie Vermont 930 Tamalpais Avenue enjoys longbrand program began in 1976 DNA to continually volunteer@whistlestop.org away, is simply San Rafael, CA 94901 need bittersweet goodbye standing goodwill and has grown toanow evolve in order toaffordable meet housing, and www.whistlestop.org journey, leaving the house that there is a shortfall of inoffice the community and is offer a weekly food pantry, the growing needs of Main open M-F 9am-5pm for two people. we called home the past hundreds of assisted living Front Desk – 415.456.9062 BOARD OF DIRECTORS beloved by many. So why two home delivered our community’s most Joe O’Hehir, CEO Vivalon 28 years. It’s also been and memory care units to Transportation – 415.454.0902 rooms we didn mess with a good thing meals services, grocery vulnerable populations. great fun to explore our meet the 2030 demand.

Meals on Wheels – 415.457.4636 President Dennis Ryan, by changing delivery, a café, and After doingOne careful newmore. neighborhood near small part of the Help Desk – 415.459.6700our name, of the yard tha Beth Reizman, Vice President resource@whistlestop.org downtown San Rafael.

COVID-19. As we face long housing solution in Marin and why now, of all times?

Over the 66 years of research and reflection, To receive the Express by email I can’t help but wonder Tom Bonomi,that Treasurer is to support, fund, and periods of loneliness and decad saw, and Whistlestop has been growth and expansion, we realized we sign up at whistlestop.org. For how much harder it would streamline the process isolation, more people are Fabia Butler, Secretary annual subscription mailed to your expanding and growing our nutrition and needed a new name be to do this if we were to create more accessory home, send $10 to Whistlestop. seemed to repr realizing the significance Sharon Jackson ever since its inception transportation programs better reflect our in our 70s or 80s?to What dwelling units. The new units and benefit ofwe human as the Marin have also evolvedoptions to full scope of services, WHISTLESTOP STAFF Senior Robert Sonnenberg are there for older weren’t wat can be for a caregiver, a family Joe Coordinating O’Hehir connection and its positive Council serve new communities, the expansion of our people in Marin as their member or the homeowner, Cynthia Wuthmann Yvonne Roberts all, we lifestyles change?heartfelt Will impact on ourof mental and had a back in 1954 and founding such as low income mission, who canand then rent out the there be enough resources main house.

In San Rafael, physical wellbeing.

by Vera Shultz and a By Linda Jackson, families who need rides the leadership role that Program deserved to be for people who want to PACIFIC SUN STAFFof new accessory While we have Laurence Suter-Gunn the Director, Aging Action appointments, group of leading citizens to medical we now play in number our grow older in their home dwelling units doubled last Initiative or people living with changed our name new,tohappy fam of their time. The Council community.

You will and community?Danielle For those McCoy, year, Advertising and the city is on track Jennifer Golbus Vivalon, our traditions was a forward-thinking chronic illnesses in need read more about our facing dementiadmccoy@pacificsun.com or declining to double that again. We need e decided to The thechalleng health, will they new have what concept and a pioneering of meals.

We have added name, Vivalon theMarin! of care, service and to do this in across downsize this John and Val Bowman Marianne Misz, Advertising they need for safety, care of this commitment would to our step forward for senior several new programs pages issue.

The Aging Action Initiative we mov year.

Our family and companionship? mmisz@pacificsun.com is enthusiastic about San community will never services in Marin County. and services over the At its core, Whistlestop, home, long an empty nest The question for Marin Wewillwanted as Rafael City Council’s recent change. And we always Our transportation since our youngest years to further enrich now known as Vivalon, ones flew Laurie Vermont Kara Production is: what percentage of Brown, support of assisted living in away, is simply too large let the healing power of programs have the lives of the people has always been about residents is going to choose in a neighborh kara@metroactive.com downtown. This new housing for two people. were continuously we There serve.

The County the as power of approval humanportends well human interconnection be to stay in San Rafael BOARD OF DIRECTORS expanded rooms we didn’t go into, parts Publisher they grow older?Rosemary According Olson, the driving force all that over and other community connection.

Today, weforcan walk a Dennis Ryan,the past 52 years to for Whistlestop’s proposed of the yard that we never Beth Reizman, to a national survey by we do –because at Vivalon, become such a central partner organizations human connection is rolson@pacificsun.com affordable older adult Tom Bonomi, saw, and decades of stuff that toconnection restaurants 90% of Fabia Butler,of what we do that part we believe that now routinely callAARP uponin 2012, about more important than housing project in downtown seemed to reproduce when Sharon Jackson older adults intend to stay Rafael. We are excited it is mostly what we are for help of ever while weSan battle works wonders.

Robert Sonnenberg we weren’t us watching.

Mostin times 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 ver responsibility they to ensure Marin The challenge was: Where ACTIVE AGING CENTER TRANSPORTATION EXPRESS 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 Kelly Krueger Thomas, Vivalon Express Editor CarePool Volunteer Driverolder.

Program residents they grow Will| 415-454-0927 there have an opportunity to age community.

Closed except for 11:30am-1:00pm lunch take-out 415-235-5031 | kelly@kruegerpr.com unit in Marin.

We wanted a smaller place Travel Navigators/Marin Access Eligibility | 415-454-0902 be housing for others Kara Brown, with who 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 network of more than 130 jgolbus@vivalon.org Cancel a Paratransit Ride | 415-457-4630 Rosemary we can walk about, close GuestOlson, Services Reception | 415-456-9062 x100 be enough housing for the organizations, including to restaurants, shops, and MEMBERSHIP Volunteer Opportunities | 415-456-9067 people who work in Marin process of dow PACIFIC SUN STAFF Discounts on the are Jackson Café and on all Whistlestop, that addresses the movies. After months of Resource Office | 415-459-6700 – lunch thoseinwho caregivers, OUR MISSION Rosemary Olson, Publisher | rolson@pacificsun.com community issues 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 extrato ensure all call home, and transportation Meals on Wheels Eligibility (Marin County) Marin residents have an opportunity to age with dignity, daunting. It took months care, like assisted 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 the Express 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

An idea that blossomed into something wonderful about their deliveries to Meals on Wheels and Nourish customers. As the seasons change, so do the flowers. “The designs vary by the seasons. Earlier it was roses, now we’re using dahlias,” Maryann says.

Maryann is a floral designer and teacher at College of Marin. She has taught for five years, and started her business, 7petals Design, four years ago. She also does arrangements for weddings, events, and special occasions.

Maryann and the rest of her team find the work to be extremely rewarding. She loves empowering people to work with flowers as an art form and enjoys how much flowers can uplift a person’s spirits. For the Vivalon project, they work mostly with bright, cheery colors, but with as much care as any arrangement. ”It’s gratifying to deliver a message of care and beauty- to give people something they can enjoy for a couple of days. Something to brighten their day,” she says.

The team is looking for future sponsors! For $125 you can fund another delivery of flowers and help local flower farmers too. To support the program, contact Vivalon at 415-456-9062 x4800 or visit vivalon.org/donate and indicate that your donation is for flower delivery.

7 Petals Designs donates their time making flower arrangements to help brighten the Whistlestop Meals on Wheels clients

7 Petals Designs donates their time making flower arrangements for Meals on Wheels clients Maryann Nardo, owner of 7 Petals Designs

Meals on Wheels Manager Erika Vaughn getting flowers ready for delivery

VIVALON EXPRESS OCTOBER 2020

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ometimes the most beautiful things in this world spring from a simple idea. For Maryann Nardo and Susan King, the idea was to add fresh flower arrangements to Vivalon’s Meal on Wheels and Nourish deliveries. It didn’t take long for the idea to blossom into something bigger, as volunteers from Maryann’s classes stepped in to help with arrangements and sometimes sponsor the cost of a delivery too.

“Susan had the original idea and it took off from there.

She and I are usually joined by just one other student per delivery to keep a safe work environment. We now have a waiting list of volunteers who want to help,” said Maryann.

The flowers are locally sourced from local farms, including Blue Dot Farms in Nicasio and Garden Valley Ranch in Petaluma.

The team is not asking flower farms to donate flowers (though farmers are generous with their orders) as local farmers are struggling tremendously to stay afloat. Some flowers even come from home gardeners offering up flowers from their gardens.

For about $125, the “flower power” team can do about 25 small ball jars per month. These are not only reusable, but transport easily as the team goes

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A senior-focused caregiving team, they are available for long and short care assignments (including weekends and overnights) and come with solid local references.

For more information, please call 415.580.5103 (Doris) or email clreplies777@gmail.com (Bonnee).

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VIVALON EXPRESS OCTOBER 2020

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What’s in a Name?

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o learn more about Whistlestop’s new name, we sat down with Mike Pile, President and Creative Director of Uppercase Branding, who guided Whistlestop through the process of creating and selecting its new name.

Why is a brand name important?

No part of an organization’s identity will be used more widely, more frequently and for a longer time than the name.

It can be the single most effective communication tool.

Why was it a good time for Whistlestop to change its name?

Whistlestop conducted market research and learned that while Whistlestop was widely admired in the community, people really only knew it for one thing: transportation. Whistlestop offers so much more than that and continues to expand its programs and communities served. A new name helps to describe and promote this more expansive mission.

Why is the name Whistlestop being retained for Transportation?

As Whistlestop learned from research and from years of serving the community, the name Whistlestop is positively associated with transportation. They wanted to keep that goodwill by applying it to the program it was already known for.

What were your goals when you embarked on this process?

Whistlestop is expanding its reach both in communities served and programs offered. We wanted a name that would reflect these realities and still be able to “hold” so much more.

What process did Uppercase Branding use to help Whistlestop become Vivalon?

It is an involved, methodical and creative undertaking to rename an organization.

We began with a deep understanding of Whistlestop’s current situation and future goals. With that as a roadmap, small teams of skilled writers and artists used multiple proprietary creative ideation techniques (and tools like thesauri, cowboy dictionaries and sound symbolism), to create hundreds of ideas.

We then screened them for intellectual property, legal and trademark issues and winnowed them down to the very best.

We then shared our list of names with Whistlestop and together evaluated them against the organization’s goals. After a few more creative sessions we ultimately recommended the name Vivalon.

What does Vivalon mean/signify?

Vivalon is an invented word so that through content and context, it can encompass all the offerings and benefits the organization offers now and will offer in the future. Vivalon has its root in the Romance language word, “viva,” or life.

And that’s what Vivalon is about; a better, richer life for the communities it serves.

During Shelter-In-Place We Are Here For You!

The doors to our Active Aging Center may have closed when the Shelter in SERVICES Place order was issued, but Vivalon is still open, working to address the new challenges that older adults now face.

We remain dedicated to you, and are working hard to expand our existing programs, and implement new ones. Below is a list of current programs. For the most up-to-date information, you can also visit our website or call us at 415-456-9062!

CUMMUNITY

Age-Friendly Virtual Intergenerational Center Programs and Activities Visit agefriendlycenter.org or email info@agefriendlycenter. org for an updated list of the many programs and activities offered online through the Age Friendly Intergenerational Center. Options include chair exercises, art classes, and more!

Candidate Forums Buck Institute webinars on COVID-19 Ongoing, Free

Register at www.buck2020.extendedsession.com The Buck Institute on Aging is offering a second series of free live interviews with experts in research, epidemiology, virology, public health, health care, and others working on coronavirus issues. You are invited to review these informed, evidence-based perspectives about the COVID-19 pandemic.

Age Friendly Marin Forum "Medicare Annual Choices & Changes 2021” October 28, 10:30-11:45 am, via Zoom, Free Come learn about all your Medicare choices and the changes for 2021, whether you’re just getting started or needing to consider options during open enrollment.

Topics to be covered include Medicare Advantage plans, prescription drug plans, supplemental plans, the low-income assistance program, etc. Speaker: Diana López, HICAP Counselor. RSVP to Pati Stoliar, agefriendlycortemadera@gmail.com to receive Zoom meeting info.

October 1, 5 and 6, 4:00 - 5:30 pm, via Livestream, Free The Aging Action Initiative and the League of Women Voters of Marin County invite you to three candidate forums focusing on issues affecting older adults in Marin. The forums will be divided by candidate/race and livestreamed on three afternoons from 4-5:30: Southern Marin (Sausalito and Belvedere City Councils) on October 1, Ross Valley (San Anselmo and Fairfax Town Councils) on October 5, and San Rafael on October 6. Get more info and livestream links at agingactioninitiative.org/candidates.

FREE MEDICAL RIDES PROVIDED

BY WHISTLESTOP WHEELS

Join us with your coffee, tea or muffin for a friendly and enjoyable chat. Socializing is important for all and it's fun to connect, even via Zoom. For more information, email: amannes@townoffairax.org.

• Routine Medical, Dental, and Eye Exams • Prenatal Visits • X-ray or Other Laboratory Visits • Regular Treatments for Chronic and Acute Illness

Call: 415-454-1098, press 6 or Email medi-cal@vivalon.org 930 Tamalpais Avenue | San Rafael | vivalon.org

VIVALON EXPRESS OCTOBER 2020

Age Friendly Marin “Breakfast with Friends” October 21, 9:30-10:30 am, via Zoom, Free

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Please visit whistlestop.org/classes for details including the call-in number and VIRTUAL CLASSES & optional Zoom link for below classes or ACTIVITIES call the front desk at 415-456-9062.

Bingo - Tuesdays 10:00 am via phone or Zoom, Free, Registration Required Please call 415-456-9062 by Thursday to play Bingo the following Tuesday. Play Bingo with Penny and Diego!

Prizes will be won at each game!

Tai Chi - Mondays 9:00 - 10:00 am via Phone or Zoom, Free

Ukulele Beginner Wednesdays 11:00 - 12:00 am via Phone or Zoom, Free Ukulele, Intermediate Wednesdays 12:30 - 1:30 pm via Phone or Zoom, Free Welcome back to Vivalon's Ukulele class! Practice songs in group form, tune your Ukulele, and rock-out with Sandy via Zoom.

Whistlesizers - Tuesdays & Thursdays 11:00 - 11:40 am via Phone or Zoom, Free 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.

Join David MacLam on a Tai Chi journey.

This non-competitive martial art known for its self-defense techniques and health benefits combines gentle physical exercise and stretching with mindfulness.

Yoga - Fridays 3:00 pm via Phone or Zoom, Free 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.

Three emergency programs available

VIVALON EXPRESS OCTOBER 2020

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histlestop Wheels by Vivalon is working with Marin County and local Community Based Organizations to provide emergency supplies to Marin County residents through three different programs.

Batteries PSPS (Public Safety Power Shut Off) The emergency battery backup program is a partnership with Marin Council for Independent Living (MCIL) to provide up to 60 backup battery supply units across Marin County to support those who have critical, life-saving medical equipment in their homes and

require power during planned power disruptions or outages. To qualify, recipients must have a life-saving device and demonstrate need. To learn more, visit marincil.org/psps.

Emergency Shelf Stable Food Box Thanks to support from the Marin County Health and Human Services Department’s Office of Aging and Adult Services, the Federal Older Americans Act and the California Department of Aging, older adults can reserve a five-meal, shelf stable Emergency Meal Box for emergencies. These can even be used with your go-bag or home

emergency kit. So far, Whistlestop Wheels has delivered over 800 boxes to Marin County residents, including our Meals on Wheels clients.

Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) Kits In partnership with the County of Marin, MCIL, Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD), Marin Aging and Adult Services (AAS), the One Door (ADRC), and the State Council on Developmental Disabilities (SCDD), Whistlestop Wheels distributed over 600 PPE Kits to Marin County residents.

The kits consist of face masks, face shields and hand sanitizer.

Zumba Wednesdays 9:00 - 9:45 am via Phone or Zoom, Free Do you like to exercise to music? How about trying Jimna’s virtual Zumba class?

Join Jimna for a rhythmic and fun workout!

AyaPlaces and Vivalon Healthy @ Home Workshops: Free Online Seminars for Better Living Vivalon is proud to partner with AyaPlaces to present Healthy @ Home Workshops, a series of online classes featuring leading home design and "living in place" experts to help you transform your home into a safer, more comfortable, and more joyful place.

September 30: “Granny Flats: They’re not just for Granny anymore!”

October 14: “Community Living: Is It For You?”

Religion and Politics – Tuesdays, September 15 November 3, 10:00 – 11:40 am via Zoom, Membership required.

Can we talk about politics and religion together? Join Darren Zook and class for insightful conversations on politics and religion.

A Dragon Threading the Eye of a Needle: Major Issues in Today’s China – Tuesdays September 15 - November 3, 2:00 – 3:40 pm via Zoom, Membership required This discussion group will focus on problems China faces today, domestically and internationally. This conversation will be led by Douglas Lee. The Economist Discussion Group – Tuesdays, September 15 - November 3, 4:00 – 5:40 pm via Zoom, Membership required Review in group form, 6-9 articles from the most up to date article. Class participants will be expected to lead the discussion for at least one article.

Classics of Philosophical Ethics – Wednesdays, September 16 - November 4, 10:00 – 11:40 am via Zoom, Membership required To be or not to be? This class will focus on philosophy and the attempts philosophers have made to come to terms with life’s fundamental ethical problems.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 ▶

For details and a more complete schedule, visit www.

AyaPlaces.com/workshops

Osher Lifelong Learning FALL 2020 Institute (OLLI)) Whistlestop has partnered with Osher CLASSES Lifelong Learning Institute to offer additional classes to Vivalon members at no additional cost! You can register for the fall semester at any time here: dominican.edu/ academics/adult-and-continuing-education Civil War Profiles - Mondays, September 21 November 16, 10:00 – 11:40 am via Zoom, Membership required.

Explore the Civil War and those who fought for Freedom with Mick Chantler The Rolling Sto nes - Mondays, September 14 November 9, 2:00 – 3:40 pm via Zoom, Membership required.

Discover the origins of the band, from their peak in the ’60s and ’70s to sound and lifestyles with Richie Unterberger.

HOMEWELL SENIOR CARE 1/4 Personalize Your Home Care with HomeWell™ Our holistic approach to home care provides a personalized experience based on individual needs—ensuring a better quality of life, comfortably at 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 EXPRESS OCTOBER 2020

OLLI

License Number 214700009

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◀ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

Memoir: The Wisdom Years Celebrating the Voice of the Wise Woman and Greybread – Wednesdays, September 16 - November 4, 2:00 – 3:40 pm via Zoom, Membership required Interested in a writing class? Join Diane Frank’s writing class, for a fun, loving, and intuitive writing experience.

Learn how to tell your stories and share all the wisdom you’ve learned over the years via your writing.

Courtroom Drama in the Movies and Theater, Part X – Thursdays, September 17 - November 5, 10:00 – 11:40 am via Zoom, Membership required Learn with Oak Dowling, as he covers attention-grabbing topics in courtroom dramas. Topics covered will include, Racism: Michele Obama, discrimination growing up in Chicago; Justice in the death of George Floyd and the McMillian “Just Mercy” Case.

The President and Psychology: Nixon, and Katharine Graham’s “Washington Post”: Trump., Polluters and Fixers: DuPont’s Teflon pollution in “Dark Water;” Donald Trump’s lawyer and mentor Roy Cohn.

Abuse: Clergy and the “Boston Globe Spotlight Team”; Moral panic and the McMartin Preschool case.”

VIVALON EXPRESS OCTOBER 2020

THE REDWOODS

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The Socratic Circus Group – Thursdays, September 17 November 5, 4:00 – 5:30 pm via Zoom, Membership required The goal of this class is to participate in conversations and meaningful discussions and a wide variety of topics.

Prerequisites: Must have opinions and be willing to share, and maintain civility at all times.

Louis XIV and the Age of the Baroque – Fridays, September 18 - November 6, 10:00 – 11:40 am via Zoom, Membership required What would it have been like to have lived in Versailles under the Sun King’s rule, Louis XIV? Tour the extravagant and pompous Baroque Age with Nikolaus Hohmann.

1/4 SQ

Residen�al Apartments Available Now Voted Best Senior Living! Thank You Marin!

Schedule a Tour

415.383.2741 x265

Explore California’s rich art history, from the time of the explorers to the present. Become familiar with styles, artists, context, and subjects we can see in California.

Avril Angevine’s class includes lectures and discussions.

HIRED HANDS

1/4 SQ

Admissions@theredwoods.org

The Art of California – Thursdays, September 17 - October 22, 2:00 – 3:40 pm via Zoom, Membership required

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

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Whistlestop Wheels by Vivalon helps older adults get around

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1. Whistlestop Wheels was awarded the Assisted Transportation contract by the County of Marin to provide transportation to older adults with physical and cognitive challenges in Central and West Marin beginning Oct. 1. As of press time, the routes were still being finalized, but the plan is to schedule two round-trips per month between West Marin and San Rafael.

There are also plans to provide rides for trips originating and ending within central San Rafael.

For more information, call 415-454-1098 Press 7 or email us at AssistedTransportation@ vivalon.org.

other laboratory visits.

The NEMT program is really about providing access to health care and our resident’s quality of life.” For more information on NEMT services, call (415) 454-1098 Press 6 or email us at medi-cal@ vivalon.org.

2. Whistlestop Wheels recently launched NonEmergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) services in Marin County for qualified MediCal recipients of any age. In order to qualify for NEMT services, individuals must be enrolled in Medi-Cal and have a physical or medical condition that prevents them from using mass transit, taxi, TNC (on-demand) or travel in a standard passenger vehicle.

NEMT participants must get prior authorization from a medical provider to use the service. “A lack of transportation is a major challenge and barrier to access medical care for many Marin County residents,” said Erick Villalobos, general manager, transportation services at Whistlestop Wheels. “But this service is not just for people with acute medical conditions. Preventative

care is essential for good health and qualified Medi-Cal patients can get free rides to routine medical, dental, and eye exams, prenatal visits, X-ray or

Of course, Whistlestop Wheels will continue to offer our other transportation programs, including our CarePool volunteer driver program and paratransit services.

Home Match A COVIA COMMUNITY SERVICE

Building community, one home at a time.

MARIN COUNTY

Welcome to our nonprofit shared housing program. We improve lives and communities by bringing people together to share homes.

Let’s get started!

HOME MATCH 1/4

Share your home…

Turn your spare room into an opportunity for income and new social connections.

Find your home…

Benefit from an affordable rent, plus the option to help your homemate with household activities in exchange for further reduced costs.

How Home Match works:

Our personalized process and responsive local staff help find just the right match for you!

• We thoroughly screen all participants • We connect people based on compatibility • We offer on-going support, even after move-in • We do not charge a fee for our services • Rents average from $700–$1300

Please note that participants seeking a shared home must currently live, work, or study in Marin County.

covia.org/services/ home-match

dmperalta@covia.org 415.456.9068

Follow us for updates and stories from our matches!

VIVALON EXPRESS OCTOBER 2020

etting from Point A to Point B can be a challenge for older adults, even when there’s not a pandemic.

During what we used to call “normal times,” transportation was often a chore, if not an outright struggle, especially for those without access to a vehicle or passengers with physical or cognitive challenges.

We’re pleased to announce that Whistlestop Wheels by Vivalon will be providing two new transportation programs:

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The Vivalon Brand Behind the Scenes

BY STUDIOB-CREATIVE

Y

ou might be surprised to learn that Best Buy didn’t start out being called Best Buy. In 1981, this big box store began as Sound of Music, and it was known primarily for its stereo equipment. Google went through an evolution when it rebranded from its original conception (Backrub). And even Pepsi, a drink designed to help dyspepsia, made its first appearance as the homespun Brad’s Drink.

A re-naming is not a small thing, and it often happens during a period of

growth. But once a name is chosen, the name needs to be branded. And the job of this branding is to tell the public what this new name means, what it represents, and what feelings they should associate with it.

In the case of Vivalon, this was an exciting challenge. And we started the process reminding everyone that a brand is not just nice colors, nice phrases, photos, or a logo.

A brand is a coordinated set of visual elements that, together do certain things in the minds of its viewers. A brand is functional.

For Vivalon, the new brand needed to: 1) Explain what Vivalon does—clearly and easily, 2) Introduce the new name and create associations with it, 3) Gesture at the larger forces at work that support the services, 4) Position Vivalon as a leader, 5) Create a sense of aliveness/potential, 6) Be visually distinct and immediately recognizable as unlike any senior services organization, and 7) Position Vivalon to expand as needed.

This was a tall order, and we created 6 very different concepts and directions—each one with different visual elements,

and each one unique in tone, message and feel.

The last concept was the winner. It was called “Connection” and it was created to underscore the belief that beyond the essential services Vivalon provides, there is something more vital and essential at work-- something connective and profound.

Through color, images, typography, photography and taglines, we created a concept to speak to a feeling of aliveness and growth, and to the amazing wonder of sunlight and the natural world as a life-giving power.

Over the next year, you’ll see many more elements of this brand unfold, and you’ll see the brand take form and shape. We hope you'll feel good every time you see it.

VIVALON EXPRESS OCTOBER 2020

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

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VALLEY MEMORIAL 1/4 SQ

HOSPICE OF MARIN care teams 1/4 SQOur 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

A perfect match

BY KELLY KRUEGER THOMAS, VIVALON EXPRESS EDITOR

In order to support our 65+ volunteers who need to shelter in place, Whistlestop, now known as Vivalon, has an immediate need for volunteer drivers under 65 to fill in. Safety protocols are strictly followed.

A

CarePool We are looking for volunteers to drive older adults to crucial non-COVID medical appointments and also to help deliver grocery bags and take out meals with low to no contact.

LITA’s 45 year old ‘One-to-One’ program

enjoy a visit and get the necessary approvals before bringing in LITA. A good match is essential, so individuals are interviewed before the visits begin to make sure there is a connection.

Since there’s a pandemic, initial Caring Connections visits may be by phone, video or outside the home while maintaining proper physical distancing. When outside, both parties must wear a mask.

Initially, the program will be a pilot for six months. A program supervisor will do occasional check-ins so see how visits are going.

Each visit lasts between 30 to 60 minutes.

People wishing to volunteer to be part of Caring Connections can apply through LITA’s website, litamarin.org or by contacting LITA's Volunteer Director, Tanya Mendoza, (415) 472-5482.

You can also send an email to tmendoza@ litamarin.org. Volunteers will be asked to undergo a background check.

Vivalon members who want to participate can contact Nutrition Manager Erika Vaughn at (415) 456-9062 X176 or send an email to evaughn@vivalon.org.

After the initial screening, Erika will submit volunteer requests to LITA for pairing.

To learn more about our CarePool Volunteer Program: carepool@vivalon.org or 415-456-9062 x103

Meals On Wheels and Nourish We are seeking friendly and reliable volunteer drivers for our no contact meal delivery programs.

To learn more about this and other volunteer options: volunteer@vivalon.org or 415-456-9067

930 Tamalpais Avenue • San Rafael (415)456-9062 • vivalon.org

VIVALON EXPRESS OCTOBER 2020

couple years ago, Jessica Williams and Joe O’Hehir had a bit of a mind meld.

Jessica was the Director of LITA (Love is the Answer) at the time, and of course, Joe was serving as CEO of Whistlestop, now known as Vivalon.

The two got to thinking about the two organizations and how they had similar missions.

Meals on Wheels and Nourish clients loved having contact with those who would drop off their meals and wanted to chat. Drivers on Meals on Wheels and Nourish routes would love to spend more time talking to their clients, but there were schedules to keep.

The need was obvious.

A significant portion of Marin County’s older adults don’t see anyone in a given week, especially with the current health crisis.

With this in mind, Caring Connections was born. This new program is designed to help reduce the feeling of isolation and loneliness by providing trained volunteers who can’t wait to read, look at photos, play a rousing table game or finish a jigsaw puzzle. But that’s just the start.

Vivalon’s role in the program is to identify older adults who may

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WAYS Marin Senior Coordinating Council 930 Tamalpais Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901-3325

TO MAKE A

DIFFERENCE SCHEDULE A RECURRING DONATION Direct your bank to automatically transfer your donation or call 415.456.9062 X4800.

Supporting our Chronically Ill Neighbors

BY YVONNE ROBERTS, CHIEF DONOR RELATIONS OFFICER

VIVALON EXPRESS OCTOBER 2020

C

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hronic illnesses will come from. Many are difficult others are battling to manage, illnesses and need especially during a support. The pandemic pandemic for those has increased the need living alone and unable for meals so Vivalon to shop or prepare Nourish has expanded meals. by more than 37% Derick has multiple since March to meet sclerosis and with demand. limited mobility, he is Yvonne Roberts In Marin, 50% of unable to shop and older adults live alone prepare meals. A friend told him and are at risk of hunger and about Vivalon Nourish. I am happy isolation. to report that he now receives meals 14% are unable to shop, cook, or and friendly visits with his delivery feed themselves. driver. Derick says that without Our at-risk neighbors need your Vivalon Nourish, he would have no help. Your gift today will ensure contact with the outside world and that vulnerable older adults are not would struggle to get enough to eat. alone and don’t face unbearable With donor support, we circumstances. ensure that Derick is not alone or wondering where his next meal Please visit: vivalon.org/donate

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 844.WSMARIN or 844.976.2746 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