model is a local, grassroots network of people, ages 50 and up. Members face the future head on, and share challenges, wisdom, and resources to support each other to navigate life’s transitions. The members of a nonprofit village grow not just older, but bolder and more confident. Greenblatt soon found like-minded people and discussed the model around kitchen tables. What kind of village might Petaluma need, without duplicating the services offered by other senior organizations?
B
y 2014, after two years of research, Village Network of Petaluma opened its office as the first village in Sonoma Count y. The nonprof it ’s members are from Petaluma and Penngrove. A member states, “When I connect with my village, I feel energized, because I am part of a powerful, expansive community. Together, we’re creating what comes next in our lives.” Here’s how it works. Members contact the village office and are linked with a volunteer who responds with a smile.
SINE UNOM A COUN C
AL
I
A
P
ASSOC
IA
R
D
TI
ME
ON
SCMA
•
•
SO
S STY
B
Sonoma Wine Country Homes RTNE
Sheela and Tammra have been serving Sonoma County physician families with their real estate goals since 2007. Having been personally affected by the wildfires, they are committed to helping physician families through this unprecedented experience. * Expert Real Estate Representation
* Consultation regarding
* Physician Relocation Services
Rebuilding, Lot Sales and
* Luxury Home Specialists
Lot Purchases
“Sheela and Tammra went above and beyond. They helped us get into our new home in the midst of the chaos with the wildfires. They are the hardest working and most professional realtors I have ever met. Their knowledge of the local market and intricacies of these transactions was invaluable. I highly recommend them to anyone looking to buy or sell a home in the area.” David Fowler & Hana Clark, MD
Sheela Hodes & Tammra Borrall Top 1% Realtors Sonoma County 707.547.3838 SonomaWineCountryHomes.com License #01497986 | #01765004
Make Your Best Move Yet! 34
SUMMER 2018
Village Network members enjoy a game of bocce ball.
The request might be for computer tutoring, light handyperson work, or even mattress f lipping. If a member wants a walking partner, a coffee shop conversation, or friends to play games with, she/he joins interest groups run by fellow members. Volunteer drivers can accompany a member to a doctor appointment, and trained “Med Pals” will take notes if needed. There is plenty of support before and after surgery, from pet care to food preparation. Computer help is just a call away. While the Village Movement is young, the model strikes a chord with people nationwide, and now, internationally. It has been described as a “true innovation” at a time when the safety net is being dismantled: baby boomers are beginning to experience the gap between what they (and often their parents) will need over the next 20 to 30 years, and what they can afford. In Sonoma County, other village models are popping up. The 707 Villages, Inc., is poised to help create local villages. It has adopted a “hub-and-spoke” model, with one hub of administrative functions and spokes of volunteers and members in different neighborhoods or areas. The Sebastopol Village Network is currently exploring needs in its area. And, it’s easy to find a village for a loved one in another area at Village to Village Network, at http://www.vtvnetwork.org/. Email: lyndi@sonic.net SONOMA MEDICINE