JUNE 2022 vivalon.org
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Vivalon partners with Alzheimer’s Association
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Healthy Aging: Vitality@Vivalon!
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The New Healthy Aging Campus
Laurence Suter-Gunn
VIVALON PERSPECTIVE
BY
Programs Director lsuter-gunn@whistlestop.org ANNE GREY, VIVALON
Jennifer Golbus
CEO
Healthy Aging Through Innovation Marketing Strategist jgolbus@whistlestop.org
Development Director info@whistlestop.org
Programs Director lsuter-gunn@whistlestop.org
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Whistlestop Express Editors 916.751.9189 john.bowman58@gmail.com
VIVALON CONNECTIONS JUNE 202 2
, Volunteer Manager volunteer@whistlestop.org
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 14/2 14 Whistlestop Express Editors yea 916.751.9189 details in this issue. This is a huge step Vivalon combined efforts through an long an home, john.bowman58@gmail.com toward realizing our dream of combining inventive partnership to increase the since our youn WHISTLESTOP wraparound healthcareLaurie services and WHISTLESTOP PERSPECTIVE pool of qualified drivers. This will ensure Vermont , Volunteer Manager 930 Tamalpais Avenue vibrant programming with affordable continued transportation opportunities volunteer@whistlestop.org away, is simply San Rafael, CA 94901 housing, and a bittersweet goodbye housing for older adults in a central, need affordable www.whistlestop.org for our shared community of older adults journey, leaving the house that there is a shortfall of Main office open M-F 9am-5pm community-based location. for we called home the past hundredsand of assisted living with disabilities. two those living The people. Front Desk – 415.456.9062 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Are we excited? In a word, YES! 28 years. It’s also been and memory care units Driver’s to Commercial Licenserooms Training we didn Transportation – 415.454.0902 Healthy aging is explore the intent great fun to our of all the meet the 2030 demand. Meals on Wheels – 415.457.4636 Dennis Ryan, President Academy launched in April and offers nearoffered One small part of the programsnew andneighborhood services we’ve Help Desk – 415.459.6700 of living the yard tha Beth Reizman, Vice President the added benefit of providing resource@whistlestop.org downtown Sanyears. Rafael. in Marin and refined over the As sciencehousing solution To receive the Express by email I can’t help but wonder Bonomi, to support, and wagefund, employment to those seeking a saw, and decad reveals more about theTom aging process,isTreasurer sign up at whistlestop.org. For how much harder it would streamline the process Fabia Butler, Secretary meaningful career. Read more about it on annual subscription mailed to your we incorporate research be to do that this if we were into to create more accessory home, send $10 to Whistlestop. seemed to repr Sharon Jackson page 9. our programs and services to benefit in our 70s or 80s? What dwelling units. The new units WHISTLESTOP STAFF Robert I am grateful staff, our community. Vitality@Vivalon is can be for a caregiver, options are there for olderSonnenberg we weren’t wat a familyfor our dedicated Joe O’Hehir people in Marinand as their a wonderful example, our new member or the homeowner, volunteers, donors and community Cynthia Wuthmann Yvonne Roberts all, we had a change? Will and hopes who can then rent out the challenge us of facilitatorlifestyles shares her insights partners. They to keep there be enough resources main house. In San Rafael, By Linda Jackson, Program for the program going forward. See page creating and innovating so that we can deserved to be for people who want to PACIFIC SUN STAFF Laurence Suter-Gunn the number of new accessory Director, Aging Action 6 for details. And on page 3, we share the yourlast trusted resource for healthy grow older in their home dwelling remain units doubled Initiative new, happy fam impact from another innovative Danielle McCoy, Advertising and community? For thosehealthy aging in Marin. year, and the city is on track Jennifer Golbus aging program, Tech4Health. facing dementia or declining to double that again. We need dmccoy@pacificsun.com e decided to The challeng health, will they have what The good news continues. to do this across Marin! Anne Grey downsize this Yours in Healthy Aging, John and Val Bowman Marianne Advertising they need for safety, careheartMisz, Aging Action Initiative Transportation remains at the of The would we mov year. Our family and companionship? mmisz@pacificsun.com what we do to ensure healthy aging, is enthusiastic about San home, long an empty nest The question for Marin his year promises to be our a youngest ones but We wanted a s since flew the pandemic led to unforeseen Rafael City Council’s recent Laurie Vermont Kara Production is: what percentage of Brown, support of assisted living in highpoint in Vivalon’s more than too largechallenges, like finding and hiring qualified away, is simply residents is going to choose in a neighborh kara@metroactive.com Anne downtown. ThisGrey new housing for two people. There were 68 year history of serving Marin. drivers. One of in the many things to stay San Rafael as I love approval portends well BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chief Executive Officer we didn’t go into, parts Olson, Publisher Construction for our newrooms Healthy Aging they is grow According pull we can walk a Dennis Ryan, about Marin theolder? way Rosemary nonprofits for Whistlestop’s proposed of the yard that we never Beth Reizman, to a national survey by rolson@pacificsun.com Campus began in April and we share together. Community Action Marin and affordable older adult Tom Bonomi, saw, and decades of stuff that to restaurants AARP in 2012, about 90% of Fabia Butler, housing project in downtown seemed to reproduce when Sharon Jackson older adults intend to stay San Rafael. We are excited 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 HEALTHY AGING CENTER TRANSPORTATION SERVICES CONNECTIONS the issues facing people as and shops and be part ofVivalon the Connections Writer Marianne Misz, 930 Tamalpais Avenue | San Rafael, CA would 94901 we move to in Marin? Kate Fitzsimmons, CarePool Volunteer Driver Program | 415-454-0927 they grow older. residents Will there have an opportunity to age unit in Marin. community. Monday–Friday 9:00am-5:00pm We wanted a smaller place 415-472-1499 | kf@fitz-com.com Non-Emergency Transportation | 415-419-2608 beMedical housing for others who Kara Brown, with dignity, independence and grace. Aging Action Initiative is Website: Vivalon.org | Email: info@Vivalon.org Mia Edwards Graceffa, Vivalon Connections Editor in a neighborhood where Group Shuttles and Charters | 415-454-1098 want to downsize? Will there No doubt ab a network of more than 130 medwards@vivalon.org Rosemary Olson, wex100 can walk about, close Guest Services Reception | 415-456-9062 be enough housing for the MEMBERSHIP organizations, including Volunteer Opportunities | 415-456-9067to restaurants, shops, and workCafé in Marin process of dow Discounts onpeople lunch in who the Jackson and on all classes,Whistlestop, thatSUN addresses PACIFIC STAFF the movies. After months of Resource Office | 415-459-6700 – those whorentals. are caregivers, OUR MISSION programs, events and room Rosemary Publisher | rolson@pacificsun.com community issuesOlson, through searching, we found what managers, and (couple) daunting. It to Whistlestop believes we share a Membershiphealthcare is $48/year (individual) $80/year JACKSON CAFÉ the lens of aging. It focuses may be the very last new responsibility to ensure all Marin ADVERTISE PLEASE CONTACT: LIKE US on findingTOways homecare experts? What Call 415-456-9062 for details. Monday–Friday | 11:30AM to 2 :00PM to age-inresidents have an opportunity to age unit in Marin. of sorting, a m Danielle McCoy, Advertising | danielle@pacificsun.com about low-incomeon people who Facebook with dignity, independence and grace. community, and having MEAL DELIVERY SERVICES No doubt about it, theOUR MISSION need affordable housing, economic security, a place to Vivalon Nourish | 415-456-9062 x176 process of downsizing isVivalon believes of millennials, share awho responsibility to ensure all Marin or we people need extra call home, and transportation Meals on Wheels Eligibility (Marin County) residents havecare, an opportunity to age with dignity, independence daunting. It took months like assisted living or LIKE US 415-473-4636 for older adults. and grace. memory care? The recent boxes to give a of sorting, a moving crew 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? Send $10 to Vivalon for in Marin: Planning for www.agingactioninitiative.org an annual delivered print subscription, facebook.com/VivalonMarin donate things we don’t or sign up at Vivalon.org 2030, estimated that version. 7,000 or contact Sami at Art support@ Cover By: Missy Reynolds 2 2 for a free email need anymore of today’s older residents agingactioninitative.org. need anymore. It’s been , CEO
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By Linda Jack Director, Agin Initiative
Impact Report—Tech4Health, Bridging the Digital Divide “Before the pandemic, my client would meet with all of her friends in person,” says Ravina, a Dominican student who worked in the program. “When things moved online, my client wasn’t able to keep up with them. Initially, she was a total beginner, but she was very receptive to learning and eager every time we showed up. At the end of the program, she said that being able to use this technology may have just saved her life because she was able to reconnect with friends that she hadn’t spoken to in 18 months. I could tell it made such a difference to her.” Tech4Health was a pilot program funded by Meals on Wheels America and the County of Marin.
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VIVALON CONNECTIONS JUNE 202 2
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eelings of isolation and a lack of tech savvy impacted older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing this, Vivalon developed a pilot program, Tech4Health that launched in September 2021. “During the shelter-inplace order, Vivalon continued its classes and events online, but we were concerned for the people who couldn’t connect with us in that way,” says Nancy Geisse, Vivalon Chief Operating Officer. “We designed our Tech4Health pilot program to reduce the isolation while improving health outcomes and bridging the digital divide. We partnered with Technology4Life to build the lesson plans and Dominican University of California Nursing Department to provide compassionate instructors.” Ten older adults with varying degrees of isolation were identified by Vivalon and paired with ten Dominican University nursing students who provided technology training and support. Each client received a tablet to use throughout the program. “Some people didn’t know how to turn on the device or use a touch screen,” says Lynn Noyce, Adjunct Professor at Dominican University and supervisor for the nursing students. “Others had some familiarity but didn’t have the confidence to send an email or download an app. And others were just too overwhelmed by the whole shock of the pandemic to figure out how to get connected to Wi-Fi and the internet.” The goal of the program was to help older adults decrease social isolation, learn new skills, form meaningful relationships with young people, and to enable older adults to contact physicians and research medical information using technology. Before the program, only two of the participants used online health tools, but by the end of the nine weeks 70% of clients regularly used technology to communicate with their doctors. All of the clients reported 100% positive effects from the Tech4Health program. Over 80% responded that the program helped them to combat feelings of isolation, anxiety and depression. 90% of clients reported that they looked forward to the program each week and it improved their overall health and independence. For one participant, who had reported feelings of depression, isolation, and thoughts of suicide, the Tech4Health program changed her life.
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Alzheimer’s and Brain Health Awareness Month
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VIVALON CONNECTIONS JUNE 202 2
he Alzheimer’s Association and Vivalon have partnered for more than a decade to provide brain health education. Shelley Dombroski, Senior Regional Director for the Northern California and Northern Nevada chapter is excited about the opportunity to return to in-person educational classes. June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Health Awareness Month. Vivalon and the Alzheimer’s Association are partnering to bring you an upcoming workshop about Effective Communication Strategies on June 14 from 3–4pm. Ariana Myers from the Alzheimer’s Association will share how communication is more than just talking and listening. Many struggle to communicate as their Alzheimer’s and dementia progresses and families need new ways to connect. Learn how to decode verbal and behavioral messages and identify strategies for coping with the various stages of progression. This event will be held in person and remote. Call Guest Services at 415-456-9062 to register. “Partnering with other organizations is a very effective way of getting the word out,” said Shelley. “People have a lot of questions about Alzheimer’s and dementia. June is the month for having those global conversations about the brain, Alzheimer’s and other dementias. That raises awareness. What follows is often, where do you turn for support? Marin County is so rich in those resources.” According to the Alzheimer’s site, fewer than 1 in 5 Americans are familiar with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), which can be an early stage of Alzheimer’s. This means that learning about the 10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s could be very helpful.
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1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life 2. Challenges in planning or solving problems 3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks 4. Confusion with time or place 5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships 6. New problems with words in speaking or writing 7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps 8. Decreased or poor judgment 9. Withdrawal from work or social activities 10. Changes in mood and personality Shelley added that her organization offers a range of classes including one on Communication; Living with Alzheimer’s Early, Middle and Late Stages; and Understanding and Responding to Dementia Related Behaviors. “We also have one that we are currently developing, Managing Money, and will be taught by an attorney we are currently training. She was one of our community education volunteers and has the legal background this class needs.”
“A number of our volunteers, that we trained prior to the pandemic, never had a chance to use their community education training for more than two years. Now, after a brief refresher, they will be ready to go.” Call Guest Services at 415-456-9062 or visit vivalon.org/calendar for program details.
Join Us @ Jackson!
Come connect with us at the Jackson Café in our welcoming community for great conversation and the tastiest lunch deal in town. 930 Tamalpais Ave | San Rafael 415-456-9062 | vivalon.org
Marin City’s 6th Annual Juneteenth
will be on Sunday June 19! The theme this year is Global Connections. Call 844-862-2787 or visit juneteenthcommunityfestival.info for more information.
HAPPENINGS@VIVALON
Pull out this section as your monthly reference guide to classes, workshops & activities
JUNE 2022
WEEKLY CLASSES & ACTIVITIES
In-person classes held at Vivalon’s Healthy Aging Center, 930 Tamalpais Ave, San Rafael 94901. For more information regarding the classes and activities below, please see descriptions on pages 6-8. Questions? Call Vivalon Guest Services at: 415-456-9062 or go to Vivalon.org/ calendar to register for in-person classes or join remote classes.
CLASS
WAYS TO JOIN
MONDAYS
9:30am–11:30am 10:00am–10:45am
Mahjongg with Gillian Zumba
In Person In Person/Remote
TUESDAYS
10:00am–11:00am 10:00am–12:00pm 10:30am–1:00pm 11:00am–12:00pm 11:30pm–12:00pm 12:00pm–1:00pm 1:00pm–4:00pm 3:00pm–4:00pm
BINGO with Penny Resource Office with Kelley (drop-ins and by appointment) Manicures with Christy (by appointment only) Whistlesizers (Sit & Be Fit) Guitar – Beginner Basics of Ukulele Workshop Open American Mahjongg Play Effective Communication Strategies (June 14)
In Person/Remote In Person/Remote In Person Remote Remote In Person In Person In Person/Remote
WEDNESDAYS
10:00am–10:45am 10:00am–12:00pm 11:00am–12:00pm 12:30pm–1:30pm 1:00pm–3:00pm 2:00pm–3:00pm 4:00pm–5:00pm
Zumba Computer Tutor with Howard (by appointment) Ukulele – Beginner Ukulele – Intermediate Massage by Rabel with Fee (for appointments call 415-419-4608) Chair Yoga with Weights (sign up at agefriendlycenter.org/classes)* Estate Planning Workshop Series (June 29)
In Person/Remote In Person In Person/Remote In Person/Remote In Person In Person/Remote In Person/Remote
THURSDAYS
10:00am–12:00pm 10:00am–12:00pm 11:00am–12:00pm 11:00am–1:30pm 11:30am–1:30pm 1:00pm–3:00pm 2:00pm–3:00pm
Vitality@Vivalon (June 16–August 4) Resource Office with Kelly (drop-ins and by appointment) Whistlesizers (Sit & Be Fit) An Afternoon on the Nile Luncheon (June 16) Hula Massage by Rabel with Fee (for appointments call 415-419-4608) Community Drum Circle
In Person In Person/Remote Remote In Person Remote In Person In Person
11:00am–12:00pm 1:00pm–3:00pm 2:00pm–4:00pm 3:00pm–4:00pm
Whistlesizers (Sit & Be Fit) Massage by Rabel with Fee (for appointments call 415-419-4608) Ping Pong Yoga
Remote In Person In Person Remote
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TIME
FRIDAYS
All classes are offered FREE of charge unless noted. *Age Friendly Center Classes & Activities (To register for all Age Friendly Center classes, please visit agefriendlycenter.org/classes)
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Vivalon
Vitality@Vivalon
Thursdays | 10:00am–12:00pm June 16–August 4 SPOTLIGHT This healthy aging program starts by providing participants with a baseline assessment of their current health, followed by information, tools, and support to encourage a shift toward new habits that can improve overall health and promote healthy aging. Our eight week long interactive group sessions are facilitated by Kristen Waller, PT, DPT. Various health topics are covered with facilitated discussions in a supportive environment designed to engage and educate participants. IN THE
VIVALON CONNECTIONS JUNE 202 2
Vitality@Vivalon Welcomes A New Facilitator
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Kristen (Krissy) Waller, PT, DPT, is a board-certified specialist in neurologic physical therapy. She first discovered Vitality@Vivalon through a nurse practitioner colleague who worked with nursing students at Dominican University. She and her colleague share a common desire to support health advocacy and community wellness through education, whether educating students, or, in Krissy’s case, Vivalon program participants. She will begin facilitating Vitality@ Vivalon in June. She is a fan of the discussionbased format of Kristen (Krissy) Waller, PT, DPT the classes that encourage people to ask questions and share ideas. Participants receive handouts containing rich information, but the discussion and theory and experiences of others allows for a kind of introspection. Hearing how others respond to the material and share their own thoughts creates an environment that helps participants make positive changes that support healthy aging. “I am also very drawn to the program because so much of the content is evidence based,” said Krissy. As a board-certified neurologic clinical specialist with her own clinical practice, Krissy’s work is guided by outcomes and is tested and supported by the literature. The pilot program material for Vitality@Vivalon came from a close collaboration with occupational therapy students at Dominican University. Krissy brings a new perspective as someone with a doctoral
level education that is enhanced by her teaching experience as an instructor at Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, since 2017. She added, “In the last couple of years, I feel people are much more vulnerable with their thoughts and concerns. When we are able to meet in person, as we can in this series, participants receive support with problem-solving, from each other and from me.” Some participants come to the series to get reconnected to a community of like-minded individuals, others are laser focused on improving their healthy aging habits. For both types of participants, the program offers something traditional healthcare often lacks – individualized time with a healthcare professional. Krissy feels this adds intrinsic value to the program. “Our series can be very catered and individualized, depending on the needs of the participants. We also offer 1:1 consultations with me, Krissy said. “That can be done after class or scheduled for a later time by phone or by zoom. Having the attention of a healthcare provider without the stress of the white coat in the office and having no pressure, but saying, OK, I can just talk to this person and run through my overall state of health, is something that’s missing in the state of healthcare currently. That uninterrupted time is so valuable.”
VITALITY@VIVALON
THURSDAYS 10:00AM-12:00PM JUNE 16-AUGUST 4 Call 415-456-9062 for more info
930 Tamalpais Avenue San Rafael | 94901
Check out these newly updated classes and activities. All classes are offered FREE of Vivalon CLASSES charge. All guests attending in person must be fully vaccinated (including booster) and & ACTIVITIES show proof of vaccination on first entry.
HOLIDAY CLOSURE
The Healthy Aging Center will be closed in observance of the Juneteenth holiday on Monday June 20, 2022. Vitality@Vivalon Thursdays | 10:00am–12:00pm | June 16–August 4 This healthy aging program is designed to give participants a baseline assessment of their current health, then provide information, tools, and support to encourage a shift toward new habits that can improve overall health and promote healthy aging. Our eight week long interactive group sessions are facilitated by Kristen Waller, PT, DPT a board-certified specialist in neurologic physical therapy. Kristen is also an instructor at Samuel Merritt University in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. She will cover various health topics and facilitate discussions in a supportive environment designed to engage and educate participants.
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An Afternoon on the Nile Luncheon
Thursday June 16 | 11:00am–1:30pm Join us for an exotic afternoon on the Nile featuring a belly dance performance by Dhyanis who has taught, performed and studied belly dance for over 35 years. Also, enjoy festive Mediterranean cuisine prepared by our very own Stacy Scott, chef to the celebrities! Tickets are $12 members/$15 non-members and reservations are required. Call Guest Services at 415-456-9062 to make your reservation by June 13.
HOSPICE BY THE BAY IS NOW
Basics of Ukulele Workshop
Ukulele—Beginner
Wednesdays | 11:00am–12:00pm Sandy works with beginners to further support them in gaining a solid foundation of ukulele.
Ukulele—Intermediate
Wednesdays | 12:30pm–1:30pm Sandy transitions students to this intermediate group when they are ready to further their skills. Join this lively group of players making music and having fun strumming and singing together!
Manicures with Christy
Tuesdays | 10:30am–1:00pm Schedule a free appointment with our experienced manicurist and treat yourself to something special!
SKILLED HOME HEALTH | PALLIATIVE CARE | HOSPICE
Our care teams can help you safely: • Recover from surgery • Manage chronic illness • Cope with end-of-life transitions
Stay home. Let us bring quality medical care to you. Call us today. (415) 927.2273 | www.bythebayhealth.org
VIVALON CONNECTIONS JUNE 202 2
Tuesdays | 12:00pm-1:00pm Join Sandy and learn the fundamentals of Ukulele. Focus points will be strumming, rhythms and reading chords in a group setting.
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Computer Tutor with Howard
Wednesdays | 10:00am–-12:00pm New option for enhancing your computer skills! The Computer Lab is open on Wednesdays for reserved sessions with our tech wizard, Howard Schwartz. Plan a 30 minute 1:1 computer tutoring session with Howard to develop your computer skills and knowledge. Call Guest Services 415456-9062 to schedule your appointment today.
Ping Pong
Fridays | 2:00pm–4:00pm Join this dynamic group for an active game of ping-pong. It’s great for the mind and body and a whole lot of fun! We hope to see our regulars as well as new faces who are eager to learn this fun and active sport.
Funding for these programs, at least in part, is made available by the Older Americans Act, administered locally by the Marin Department of Health and Human Services, Aging and Adult Services.
Vivalon
SPECIAL EVENTS
Effective Communication Strategies Workshop
VIVALON CONNECTIONS JUNE 202 2
Tuesday June 14 | 3:00pm–4:00pm Join Ariana Myers from the Alzheimer’s & WORKSHOPS Association and find out how communication is more than just talking and listening. Many struggle to communicate as their Alzheimer’s and dementia progresses and families need new ways to connect. Learn how to decode verbal and behavioral messages and identify strategies for coping with the various stages of progression. The event will be held in the Jackson Café. Call Guest Services at 415-456-9062 to register.
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Save the Date Beach Blanket Vivalon Luncheon Thursday July 14 | 11:30am–1:30pm
Join us for a festive celebration of summer Beach Blanket Vivalon style, including live beach music! Enjoy special summer cuisine prepared by our very own Stacy Scott, chef to the celebrities! Tickets are $12 members/$15 non-members and reservations are required. Call Guest Services at 415-456-9062 to make your reservation by July 11.
Vivalon Volunteer Fair
Thursday June 16 | 3:00pm–4:00pm Our volunteer fair will be held in the lounge the third Thursday of every month at 3:00pm. Drop by to explore the wide range of volunteer opportunities available at Vivalon and learn how you can be a part of all the great things Vivalon volunteers do for our community.
Estate Planning Workshop Series
June 29 | 4:00pm–5:00pm Join Mary Jo LaFaye of Mutual of Omaha Mortgage to learn more about Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECM). This recently revamped version of the former reverse mortgage, is a HUD Program that is insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) enabling retirees across the country to live a more enjoyable retirement. To register for this free workshop, email donations@vivalon.org or call 415-456-9062 x4800.
Vivalon
SOCIAL PROGRAMS
Caring Connections
Feeling isolated or alone? Our Caring Connections Program, brought to you in Partenrship with LITA (Love is the Answer) matches you with a compassionate volunteer to provide the support you need. Contact us at 415-456-9062 to get in touch today.
Age-Friendly Intergenerational Center
Vivalon and Age-Friendly Intergenerational Center have partnered to offer classes at the Healthy Aging Center. Learn more and register online at age-friendlycenter.org/classes.
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GETTING AROUND
BY KATE FITZSIMMONS
New Commercial Driver’s License Training Academy
Assisted Living at its Best!
To learn more about Community Action Marin services, please visit camarin.org.
VIVALON CONNECTIONS JUNE 202 2
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ivalon’s bustling transportation program faced unusual challenges during the pandemic, as did many of Marin’s other nonprofits. Driver shortages grew as many agencies were left shorthanded after pandemic-induced hiring freezes. This is compounded by the fact that many older drivers retired when routes were canceled. Finding qualified drivers became such a concern that our team sought creative solutions. In April, Vivalon partnered with Community Action Marin (CAM) the largest non-profit social services provider in Marin County to create a local and free Commercial Driver’s License Training Academy. The Driver Academy is reaching community members with limited resources to attend the training and will create an internal pipeline to offer graduates paid driver staff positions at Vivalon Rides upon the successful completion of the training program, subject to the ability to meet employee hiring standards. In addition, Vivalon is leveraging long-term relationships with other Marin employers to help academy graduates find secure, living wage employment opportunities and strengthen self-sufficiency. “Specialized transportation is at the heart of our mission, to keep our community connected and able to practice healthy aging,” said Anne Grey, Vivalon CEO. “We couldn’t simply wait for a solution to appear.” “It felt like a perfect match to partner with Community Action Marin, an organization with a rich history of assisting underserved communities through vital programs,” Grey added. The new Commercial Driver’s License Training Academy is providing free, comprehensive 80-hour specialized driver training for approximately 48 students during the initial sixmonth pilot program that started in mid-April. The pilot sourced
students from CAM’s client base to help ensure that their basic needs are met and stabilization support is in place so they can focus on their Academy work and on securing a job upon graduation. “People are seeking more than a job and this is an opportunity for them to build a brighter future for themselves and their families,” said Heather Bettini, Economic Justice Director at Community Action Marin. “Vivalon is not only a trusted partner, but the organization has a reputation for providing the best commercial driver training in the area.” CAM is providing Academy students with access to a full range of services: financial and career coaching; housing navigation; access to public benefits and other income supports; mental health services; free and affordable highquality childcare; energy and cash assistance; and referrals to outside agencies as appropriate. The Driver Academy provides students with a combination of in-class and field training to help them successfully pass DMV written exams and behind-the-wheel driving/ field tests needed to obtain a California commercial driver’s license. Students will also receive the necessary training ♥ 24 Hour Elder Care ♥ to acquire CPR/Basic First Aid certificates. Family Environment In-person classes are at 2 blocks from Vivalon with the possibility of Downtown San Anselmo alternative training delivery 46 Mariposa Ave. San Anselmo models, such as online or night and weekend courses. Juanita says Community Action Marin “WE CARE” covers the $3,200 tuition cost The most famous duck in per student, and students will San Anselmo! receive all training materials for free. To learn more about Visit us today for a tour! Call 415.755.0087 Vivalon Rides services, www.bellogardens.com please visit vivalon.org/ transportation.
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VIVALON CONNECTIONS JUNE 202 2
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Vivalon’s Healthy Aging Campus Construction Marin is the most rapidly aging County in the Bay Area, with 28% of our population over age 60. More than a decade ago, Vivalon began working to address the changes needed to care for our older population. After over a decade of diligent planning and hard work, we are thrilled to share that Vivalon’s Healthy Aging Campus
construction began in April! Vivalon’s Healthy Aging Campus will be a modern health hub that supports the social and medical needs of older adults and provides affordable homes in a central, community-
THE CAMPUS WILL FEATURE 66 UNITS OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING ON THE UPPER FOUR FLOORS.
based location in the heart of San Rafael. The Campus will feature 66 units of affordable housing on the upper four floors (plus one for an onsite manager) thanks to Vivalon’s
JOIN US FOR A GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY As we put golden shovels in the ground to celebrate this exciting milestone! expanded Healthy Aging Services will combine all of this with integrated health services and workshops to promote healthy aging.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE NEW HEALTHY AGING CENTER:
Integrated Care Vivalon’s planned integrated care clinic in collaboration with a local trusted provider of quality medical care will address the needs of each individual by coordinating healthcare with patients’ physicians and filling in any gaps. This patient-centered approach will ensure each older adult has optimal outcomes for their plan of care and chosen healthy aging path, regardless of income, insurance or outside support. Clinic services will be available to all older adults in Marin County, not just those who live onsite.
Healthy Aging Services Housing, food, transportation and social connection must be part of a comprehensive health plan. Our
Connection & Companionship The Campus will be a welcoming hub — a place to connect, share a meal, attend
refreshments to follow
999 Third Street San Rafael For more details and to RSVP, visit tinyurl.com/2ntn3xw2 classes and activities, volunteer and experience meaningful engagement with others. We will enhance our host of programs and services, including transportation, home delivered meals, classes, workshops, community events and resource referrals. VIVALON CONNECTIONS JUNE 202 2
partner Eden Housing, a leader in developing thriving communities through affordable housing. The studio and one-bedroom apartments range in rent from $770 to $1,650 per month for residents age 62 and up and all units are Section 8 approved. The lower two floors will host Vivalon’s new Healthy Aging Center with state-of-the-art exercise, education, technology, and art facilities plus on-site health services operated by a local trusted provider of quality medical care. The grand opening for this exciting new health hub is projected for December 2023.
Friday, June 3, 2022 11:00am -12:00pm
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Vivalon 930 Tamalpais Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901-3325
Healthy Aging Center Capital Campaign Investors BY YVONNE ROBERTS, CHIEF DONOR RELATIONS OFFICER
V
ivalon is honored to recognize the Healthy Aging Campus Capital Campaign’s early investors. These individuals, families, and organizations believed in this incredible project’s vision for safe, affordable homes over a hub of
Founder’s Circle
Dennis & Susan Gilardi Marin Community Foundation Eden Housing Vickie Soulier Foundation Phoebe Cowles BioMarin
VIVALON CONNECTIONS JUNE 202 2
Benefactor’s Circle
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Muriel Harris The William G. Irwin Charity Foundation H.C. Jackson George Lucas Family Foundation Richard & Nancy Robbins Larry & Diane Rosenberger Anonymous
Builder’s Circle
Allan & Sydne Bortel Jeri Dexter Patrick & Frankie Hunt Grace Hughes Dennis & Becca Ryan Bill & Linda Tichy The Saul Zaentz Charitable Foundation
Friend’s Circle
Etta Allen Bank of Marin Ron Collins & Donna Morris Margie & David Guggenhime
vital resources that will provide access to healthy aging for thousands of Marin’s older adults. No one should grow old alone. We continue to welcome support for this “first in Marin” endeavor.
Marion & William Kleinecke Michael & Mary Malloy Tony Nethercutt Barbara Otto Family Foundation Alice Shaver Foundation Martin & Elizabeth Sleath Matt Taddei Friends of Orville Teising
Supporter’s Circle
Darby & Tom Bonomi Jerry Cahill Dennis Fisco & Pam Polite Richard & Julia Geist Greg & Joanne Giffra Charles & Barbara Goodman Ken & Joan Gosliner Mary & Stephen Mizroch Beth & Vic Reizman Cynthia Wuthmann
Community Circle
Peter & Pat Applegate Karen & Peter Arnold David Berry Robert Bingham Paul Castro & Nikki Cavalier Ann Coffey Sam Salkin & Alexandra Derby Dropbox EACH Foundation
Yvonne Roberts
Team Ghilotti Ken & Joan Gosliner Isaacs Family Dennis & Pam Joyce Gee Kampmeyer Ben & Kathy Kibbe Walter Kopp Penelope Markrack Debbie Mills Stanley & Nancy Moore Mark & Kay Noguchi Mike North Joe O’Hehir & Vicki Masseria Jerry & Becky Oken Douglas Reilly & Rose Estrada Relevant Wealth Peter Rubens & Peg Phelan Barbara Rushkin Rick Schaefer Scully Foundation Scott & Dina Smith John Teising Peg Teising Rochelle Teising Nancy Warfield David & Kay Werdegar Keith Wilde Allan Zackler Anonymous