Whistlestop August 2019

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Marin’s Older Adult Community Connection Since 1954

whistlestop.org August 2019 whistlestop.org October 2019 2018 August

Marin’s Older Adult Community Connection Since 1954

Pg 3: Meals on Wheels Driver Helps Save a Life Coming Back Hero from the Fire PgPg9:3:Your Everyday 5:Nourishing Whistlestop/Eden Housing Campus Update PgPg10: the Community Pg 9: Helping Older Adults Find Home & Community

A Place Called Home

Greg Shraeder

Lynn Murphy

Meals on Wheels and CarePool Volunteer

Eli Gelardin

Executive Director, MCIL

See page 10.

San Rafael Police Dept

Meals On Wheels Team

Tunisha O’Neal

Meals On Wheels Driver

WHISTLESTOP PERSPECTIVE

In Search of a Hero?

You Don’t Need to Look Far

By Fabia Butler, Whistlestop Board Secretary

T

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here are a handful of things that truly inspire me. For the most part they fall into three categories: people, places and literature. They are powerful motivators.

Well-written literature satisfies my desire for temporary escapism and fulfills my appreciation of a well-crafted sentence.

(Pat Conroy could craft a sentence like no other.) As for places, Mount Tamalpais and the Georgia coast have long served as my physical and spiritual inspiration.

But it’s the people in my home community who sustain and fill me with gratitude and purpose.

The local heroes I’ve

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encountered over the past 25 years in Marin inspire me to give back. They are plentiful and many work selflessly behind the scenes. When I first became involved in Marin nonprofits, I met one such hero at Buckelew Programs.

This program enhances the quality of life for those with mental illness, addictions and co-occurring disorders.

I had a strong connection to their mission since mental illness had run in my family.

It was there I met Jay Zlotnick, who led Buckelew for 30 years, serving as its inspirational leader and helping instill resilience and recovery options for hundreds of people. That is heroic by any measure.

Mary Jane Burke, Marin County Superintendent of

ACTIVE AGING CENTER 930 Tamalpais Avenue | San Rafael, CA 94901 Open Monday-Friday 9:00AM-5:00PM Website: whistlestop.org | Email: info@whistlestop.org Guest Services Reception | 415-456-9062 ext. 100 Volunteer Opportunities | 415-456-9067 Resource Office | 415-459-6700 Covia Home Match & Social Call | 415-456-9068

JACKSON CAFÉ Monday-Friday | 11:30AM to 2:00PM

LIKE US on Facebook! facebook.com/WhistlestopMarin

Schools, has been inspiring teachers, kids and colleagues for 25 years and first opened my eyes to the importance of special education and access to quality education for all.

She also took time to offer wisdom and encouragement to both of my children who are now teachers. I admire anyone who dedicates their career to teaching future generations. Indeed, they are heroes in their own right.

Then there are the heroic souls at Whistlestop. As my own parents began to face physical and cognitive challenges, it brought me closer to the mission of Whistlestop. I felt connected to the organization’s smart, engaging leader Joe O’Hehir. Joe’s vision in addressing the critical needs of Marin’s aging

Fabia Butler

population struck a chord and led me to join the board of directors two years ago.

His dream of a new Healthy Aging Campus (providing low income housing, transportation, social connections and wellness programs) is becoming a reality, and we should be breaking ground in 2020.

You don’t have to watch an inspiring film or read compelling literature to witness heroes in action.

They are all around you, inspiring ordinary people like me, and maybe even you.

MEAL DELIVERY SERVICES

WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS

Whistlestop Nourish | 415-456-9062 ext. 176 Meals on Wheels Eligibility (Marin County) | 415-457-4636

Kelly Krueger Thomas, Whistlestop Express Editor 415-235-5031 | kelly@kruegerpr.com

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

Jennifer Golbus, Marketing & Communications Director jgolbus@whistlestop.org

CarePool Volunteer Driver Program | 415-454-0927 Travel Navigators/Marin Access Eligibility | 415-454-0902 Schedule a Paratransit Ride | 415-454-0964 Cancel a Paratransit Ride | 415-457-4630

OUR MISSION Whistlestop believes we share a responsibility to ensure all Marin residents have an opportunity to age with dignity, independence and grace.

Want to receive the Express at home? Send $10 to Whistlestop for an annual delivered print subscription, or sign up at whistlestop.org for a free email version.

PACIFIC SUN STAFF Rosemary Olson, Publisher | rolson@pacificsun.com Kara Brown, Production | kara@metroactive.com

TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CONTACT: Danielle McCoy, Advertising | dmccoy@pacificsun.com Marianne Misz, Advertising | mmisz@pacificsun.com

Cover by Missy Reynolds

Whistlestop Meals on Wheels driver saves a life

By Kelly Krueger Thomas

♥ 24 Hour Elder Care ♥

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Family Environment 2 blocks from Downtown San Anselmo 46 Mariposa Ave. San Anselmo

BELLO GARDENS Juanita says “WE CARE” 1/8V The most famous duck in San Anselmo!

Visit us today for a tour!

Call 415.755.0087 www.bellogardens.com

Tunisha O’Neal

she knew in her heart that her client was still at home, unable to come to the door.

Meals on Wheels clients have an agreement with Marin County that allows service providers to enter the property to deliver and put away meals. Since this particular client was hard of hearing, she had an agreement in place and Tunisha had been provided with a way to enter the home.

Before entering, she went to the back of the home and opened a window, calling out to her client to see if she was O.K. It was then that she saw the woman lying on the floor, her leg twisted, unable to move.

She hadn’t eaten in four days and didn’t have her life alert

on. After entering the home, the woman asked Tunisha to help her get up, but Tunisha knew it was best if she wasn’t moved until medics arrived.

Thanks to her training and knowing her client’s routines, Tunisha was able to get her the medical attention she needed. We’re happy to report that this Meals on Wheels client is on the mend in the hospital.

We’re so proud to have Tunisha, our hero, on our Meals on Wheels team.

Interested in becoming a Whistlestop home delivered meals volunteer? For this or other volunteer opportunities, contact Laurie at volunteer@whistlestop.org, call 415-456-9067 or stop by our monthly volunteer fair at 3 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month.

no gas... all electric no noise... quiet power no license, insurance, maintenance

NORTH COAST MOBILITY 1/8V Sales, Service, Repairs, & Rentals

415.457.1664 1281 Anderson Dr., Ste. F, San Rafael

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s a Whistlestop Meals on Wheels driver, it’s only natural that you get to know your clients as you drop off deliveries every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. In some cases, you become so close that you get to know each other’s routines.

This is the case for driver Tunisha O’Neal. Three times a week she makes a delivery to one of her special clients. The door is always open, as the client knows when Tunisha will be stopping by with her food.

On one Wednesday in May, however, Tunisha noticed the door was locked.

Strange, she thought, since her client never went out and always left the door open. She knocked again and called out her client’s name but there was no answer (for privacy reasons, we can’t use her name).

Thinking that she may have been taken to an appointment by a caregiver, she put a tag on the door that said, “Sorry, we were not able to deliver your meal today. See you on Friday.”

When Tunisha stopped by on Friday, the tag was still on the door. She contacted neighbors who called local hospitals to see if she had been admitted. There was no record of anyone by that name. Tunisha knew something was wrong and

Assisted Living at its Best!

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COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

On A Mission to Help, One Story at a Time

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ince 2017, the City of San Rafael has seen a seven percent overall decline in homelessness and a 28% decrease in chronic homelessness. Through strategic city programs and partnerships and the special skills of one very important person, the city has been a Marin County leader in addressing homelessness.

That very important person is Lynn Murphy, Mental Health Outreach Liaison for the San Rafael Police Department. Lynn was hired in September 2013 when the city created the position to serve the growing number of people with mental illness living on the street.

Each day, Lynn spends hours walking the streets of downtown San Rafael, talking to folks and connecting with people

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who may benefit from city programs and partnerships.

She says she genuinely loves hearing their stories and it makes her day when someone gets off the streets, gets the medication and help they need and is doing well.

Lynn recalls one woman who had been homeless who later thanked her and apologized for being mean to her when she was homeless.

Since taking the position, Lynn has built remarkable relationships with members of the homeless community through her positive attitude, action-oriented approach and nonjudgmental attitude. She says that the biggest myth about homelessness is that people are on the streets because they don’t have a house. Lynn knows first hand that there are many different reasons why people are on

HOME WELL 1/6.

the street. “You can’t paint all homeless people with the same brush stroke,” Lynn says. “They are all different and have different needs. I try to figure out what each individual Lynn Murphy, Mental Health Outreach needs and then try Liaison San Rafael Police Department. to find a resource for Listen to their stories. that need.”

Get involved with your With help from county, neighborhood association community partners and and visit parks and the Homeless Outreach downtown areas. Consider Team, 143 chronically donating to an organization homeless individuals have that helps homeless people been housed in permanent with services rather than supportive housing, with giving money directly to a six to eight people finding homeless individual. housing each month. The City of San Rafael, together with Help is available for people who have been sleeping on the streets its partners, is seeing a 93% or in a car for two weeks or longer. retention rate in those housed.

Individuals can call the Coordinated Lynn offers this advice to Entry help line at 415-473-4663, anyone who wants to help: and families please call Homeward Bound of Marin at 415-457-2115.

Volunteer. Talk to people.

HAPPENINGS@WHISTLESTOP

WEEKLYACTIVITIES

FRIDAYS

COMPUTER

EXERCISE

LANGUAGE

TIME

CLASS

INFO

9:00AM-10:00AM 10:00AM–11:00AM 10:00AM–NOON 10:30AM-NOON 10:30AM-NOON 11:00AM-NOON 12:30PM-1:45PM 1:00PM-3:00PM 9:30–10:30AM 10:00AM–NOON 10:00AM–NOON 1:00PM–3:00PM 1:00PM-2:00PM 3:00PM-4:00PM 9:30AM-12:30PM 10:00AM–NOON 10:30AM-NOON 11:15AM-12:15PM 12:30PM-1:30PM 3:30PM-4:45PM 9:00AM-10:00AM 9:30AM-11:00AM 11:00AM-1:00PM 11:00AM-NOON 12:30PM-1:30PM 1:00PM-2:00PM 12:30PM–3:00PM 2:00PM-3:00PM 10:30AM-1:00PM 10:30AM-NOON 11:00AM–NOON 1:30PM-3:00PM 2:00PM–4:00PM 3:00PM-4:00PM

Intermediate Tai Chi Starting Aug. 5 Beginners Tai Chi Starting Aug. 5 Computer Lab German Social Group Persian Social Group Movement & Music Starting Aug. 26 Russian Social Group CalFresh Whistlesizers Manicures Mah-Jongg Summer Independent Study Spanish2 French Social Group Beginning Spanish Monthly Food Box for Seniors 8/21 Computer Lab Persian Social Group Beginner Ukulele Inter. Ukulele Citizenship Ind./Small Grp. Tutoring Rollin’ Root Farmers’ Market Italian 1 (Max. 10) Open Art Whistlesizers Italian 3 Italian Study Group Adv. Write Your Life Stories Italian 2 CalFresh 8/2, 8/16, 8/30 BrightStar Health Check 8/9 & 8/23 Brown Bag Pantry Spanish Social Group Ping-Pong Yoga with Kelly

Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in 415-485-9318 Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in Register Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in Register Drop-in Drop-in Register Register Register Register Drop-in Drop-in Register Drop-in Prerequisite Required Register 415-697-7411 Drop-in Register at 11:30 am Drop-in Drop-in Drop-in

MISC

FEE $8/10 $8/10 Free Free Free $15/$45 Free Free $4/5 Free $3/5 Free $3/5 Free Free Free $40/45 $40/45 $5/session $30/35 Free $4/5 $30/35 $2/4 $20/30 $30/35 Free Free Free Free $2/4 $3/5

ONGOING

EVENTS

For a full list of classes, visit whistlestop.org/classes/ calendar or call 415-456-9062, ext. 100

Community Breakfast

Friday, August 2; $4/$8; 9:00am-10:00am Stop by and enjoy our tasty, hot breakfast buffet.

Rollin’ Root Mobile Farmers’ Market Truck

Thursdays rain or shine; 9:00am-10:00am The Agricultural Institute of Marin’s Mobile Farmers’ Market visits Whistlestop every Thursday, rain or shine. Purchase local seasonal fruits and vegetables with ease right here at Whistlestop.

Older Adult Housing Information Session Wednesday, August 14; 11:00am-12:00pm; No fee; Registration suggested Staff members from Covia’s Home Match Marin, will discuss older adult housing options in Marin. Information about Covia’s free, Home Match Marin’s comprehensive home sharing services to older adults and the Marin Housing Authority’s subsidized and low-cost housing will be shared.

Healthy Aging Workshop

Thursday, August 22; 1:30pm-3:00pm; Free; Registration required Are you interested in evaluating and improving your health?

Join Wells Whitney, Board Member of the Buck Institute for a presentation of his healthy aging scorecard. Dr. Whitney will help you evaluate and identify the areas where you can improve your health and your life.

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THURSDAYS

WEDNESDAYS

TUESDAYS

MONDAYS

FOOD

AUGUST

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Lifestyle Options in Later Retirement

SPECIAL EVENTS &

Long-Term Care: Community Education and Interactive Discussion

Wednesday, August 14; 10:00am-11:00am; Free; Registration encouraged Have you had experience dealing with a loved in a longterm care? Would you like to be proactive in planning your future if the same situation happened to you?

Come to this educational presentation to equip yourself with the latest industry research and solutions on aging with long-term care. In this presentation, we will discuss the following: what is long-term care, the facts vs. the myths, the actual costs of service in Marin County, how to pay for care, new insurance options.

WORKSHOPS

The Importance of Financial Caregiving

Wednesday, August 28, 10:00am-11:15am, Free, Registration required Join Vicki Clarke for an informative presentation on financial planning and creating a plan that maintains your privacy, conveys your wishes, and provides instruction appropriately.

Fresh. Affordable. Delicious.

Jackson Café Located in Whistlestop’s Active Aging Center

Entrées from $ 6- $10 Open to the public for LUNCH every weekday!

Wednesday, August 21; 10:00am -11:30am; Free; Registration Required Join Millie Anderson, of Mom’s New Pad and Wayka Bartolacelli, of Compass Real Estate to hear about the good news about senior living communities, the types and costs of senior housing as well as real estate refresher course for seniors such as market conditions and trends.

Movement & Music

Mondays, August 26-October 7; 11:00am-12:00pm; Fee $15 yearly Emeritus Students College of Marin (ESCOM) membership, plus $63 for ESCOM members $82 for Non-members (6 week class) paid to the College of Marin registrar. Call 415-485-9318 to register.

If you have not been exercising regularly or have arthritis-related problems, this class is for you. Join instructor, Diane Haine in the comfortably paced class that meets individual needs. Chair exercises tone both upper and lower body muscles. Includes: joint flexibility, muscle strengthening, balancing, breathing coordination and modified Tai-chi movements. (No class on Labor Day, September 2)

Memory Screenings in partnership with JFCS’ Seniors At Home

Wednesday, September 4; 9:00am-12:30pm: No Fee; Registration Required Worried about memory loss or just want to have a reference detection test? Call today to schedule a free 45-minute appointment. Memory assessment is not diagnostic, but it is an opportunity to speak privately and confidentially with a professional evaluator. Limited to 10 appointments.

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Employment Support Services for Women 50 yrs. and Older at the YWCAFifty Program

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VALLEY MEMORIAL 1/4 SQ

Tuesday, September 10; 11:00am-12:00pm; Free; Registration Required Come hear all about the YWCA50+ Program designed specifically for women 50 yrs. and older! Are you interested in working part-time, fulltime, temp or would you like to become an entrepreneur? Do you need to brush up on your computer skills?

Attend this workshop to learn about the Free YWCAFiftyPlus Program for women 50 yrs. and older. We offer several AARP Work for Yourself@50+ Workshop open to men and women several times per year.

Learn more about this amazing free YWCA program by attending this informative presentation.

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SELECTED

CLASSES

Tai Chi

Intermediate Tai Chi: Mondays, 9:00am10:00am; $8/10; Drop-in Beginning Tai Chi: Mondays, 10:00am-11:00am; $8/10; Drop-in 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.

Whistlesizers

Tuesdays, 9:30am-10:30am; $4/5; Drop-in Thursday; 11:00am-Noon; $4/5; Drop-in Join Elizabeth Lynn, instructor for gentle chair exercises and light cardio to improve your strength, flexibility and motion.

Too Much Stuff

Group meetings will be on a short break starting Tuesday, August 6. The group will resume on Tuesday, September 3.

Beginning Ukulele

Wednesdays; 11:15am-12:15pm;$40/$50 Strum your way to happiness with instructor Sandy Bailey! Please bring your own ukulele. Each session runs for 6 weeks.

Open Art

Thursdays; 11:00am-1:00pm; Free; Drop-In Do you have art projects that are unfinished? Would you like guidance and support from other artists? Join our newest Art facilitator Mary Brooks in doing art here at Whistlestop!

PRE-REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT REQUIRED: 415-456-9062

iPad/iPhone Basics 1: Getting to Know Your Device

Thursdays, August 22 & August 29, 10am – Noon (2 classes) Fee: $48 Maximum 8 people In this two-week course for those new to the smart phone/wireless device world, you'll learn how to make calls, send emails, send texts, download music and add applications. Each session provides one-onone help and comes with instructional handouts. (Bring your charged-up Apple device to class.)

Intro to Computers – Windows or Apple

Tuesdays, September 10, 17, 24 & October 1, 10am – Noon (4 classes) Fee: $65 Maximum 6 people Designed for first-time computer user, you will learn how to start your computer and turn it off, use the mouse and keyboard to perform basic computer tasks, how to create and print a document, identify the basic parts of a computer and their use, search the Internet to find information and set up an email account.

Android 2: Understanding Apps on Your Smart Phone

HIGHLIGHTED

Victim-Witness Assistance

Thursdays, August 8 & August 22; 9:00am12:00pm; No Fee Advocate Yolanda Johnson from the District Attorney’s office answers questions, provides information, and connects you to resources. For more information, please call 415-473-6450.

CalFresh (eligibility & application assistance) Mondays, August 5, 12, 19, & 26 Fridays, August 2, August 16 & August 30 10:00am-1:00pm; Free; Drop-in The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, CalFresh, provides qualified applicants with an EBT card to use at participating grocery stores and farmer’s markets.

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Thursdays, October 17 & 24, 10am – Noon (2 classes) Fee: $48 Maximum 8 people Review basics and learn about built-in apps including photo editing, storing and retrieving photos, Calendar, e-mail, texting, maps/GPS, and more! (For all Android devices including: Samsung, LG, Motorola, Nokia)

What's New on your iPhone: Newest changes in iOS

November 5 & 12, 10am – Noon (2 classes) Fee: $48 Maximum 8 people Does it seem like Apple is constantly changing things on your iPhone or iPad? Want to see what is changing with the release of the newest iOS update? Come and find out what has changed and how to use the new features. Learn how to safely backup and upgrade your device.

This class is a great refresher and a good overview for those new to the iPhone/iPad world. Bring your fully charged device to class.

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SUPPORT SERVICES

COMPUTER CLASSES Aug., Sept., Oct., Nov., Dec. 2019

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SF-Marin Food Bank’s Monthly Food Box for older adults

iPad/iPhone Basics 1: Getting to Know Your Device

Wednesday, August 21; 9:30am-12:30pm; Free; Drop-in The SF-Marin Food Bank operates the Supplemental Food Program, providing a monthly box of quality U.S. Dept. of Agriculture food to low income older adults. To register, bring an ID, proof of income, and proof of residency and one of the Food Bank specialists will determine your eligibility.

Bi-Weekly Blood Pressure Checks, Cholesterol Screenings, and Medication Reviews

Friday, August 9 & August 23; 10:30am-Noon; Free; Drop-in Bi-weekly blood pressure checks, cholesterol screenings, and medication reviews offered by BrightStar Care. BrightStar is a local agency providing home care, caregivers, and medical staffing solutions to families and businesses in Marin.

Free Legal Consultation

Thursday, by appointment only, call 415-457-6700 Legal Aid of Marin provides free 30-minute consultations for Marin County residents who are 60+. Volunteer trusts and estates lawyers give limited scope consultations on trust and estates; wills; trust administration; Health Care Directives; Powers of Attorney; and some related real estate matters.

Covia’s Social Call Program

Are you an older adult or a homebound or disabled individual who lives alone? Register today for free, reassuring callsthree mornings a week to say, “Good morning” and check in with you. Call 1-877-797-7299.

Thursdays, November 19 & 26, 10am – Noon (2 classes) Fee: $48 Maximum 8 people In this two-week course, those new to the smart phone/wireless device world, will learn how to make calls, send emails, send texts, download music and add applications.

Each session provides one-on-one help and comes with instructional handouts. (Bring your charged-up Apple device to class.)

iPad/iPhone Basics 2: Essential Built-in Applications

Tuesdays, December 3 & 10, 10:00 am – Noon (2 classes) Fee: $48 Maximum 8 people Review basics and learn about built-in apps including photo editing, iCloud, calendar, siri, e-mail, texting, facetime, and more! Please bring your fully charged device, Apple ID and Apple password to class.

(For Apple devices only.)

ONGOING Open Lab

Every Monday and Wednesday, 10am – Noon, No Fee Use our Apple and PC computers to access the Internet. Volunteers are available to help and give advice on problems with your laptops and tablets and software applications.

You Can Make a Difference Join the Whistlestop Family by making a gift I want to become a monthly supporter with a gift of: $10

$15

$20

$50 ________ /month

Or make a single donation in the amount of:

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$500

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HIRED HANDS 1/4 SQ

$250

$125

Billing Info ___________________ Name

___________________ Address

____________________ Phone

____________________

Email

________

$100

Payment Info MC

Visa

___________________ CC#

___________________ Exp Date

___________________ 3 Digit Code

Mail to: 930 Tamalpais Ave, San Rafael 94901

Thank You!

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

Just your regular, everyday hero

By Laurie Vermont

I

f you had a chance to meet Greg Schreader, he would come across as just a regular guy from the Midwest. A father of two, Greg was a reinsurance broker in Minnesota before he and his wife relocated to Marin County to raise a family and continue his career.

It would be hard to say Greg was just a “regular guy” these days. After retiring from his job, he went in search of a chance to serve his community and ended up at Whistlestop.

He had never been much of a volunteer over the years, but Meals on Wheels piqued his interest.

“Delivering meals to the same people week after week allows them to know you on their own terms and you can really make a difference in their lives,” Greg said.

After a month as a Meals

Greg Schreader

on Wheels volunteer, he became a driver for CarePool, too. As a CarePool driver, he gets to spend even more time with his clients and have more in-depth conversations, learning more about their lives and sometimes, their challenges.

Greg recalls the time he helped one CarePool rider make a practice walk up the street to a neighbor’s house so he would be able to go on his own when he was invited to a party there again. “It touched me that

such a simple act could bring so much dignity and independence,” Greg said.

“That feeling of truly making a difference in someone’s life will keep me coming back.”

Erika Vaughn, Meals On Wheels and Nourish said of Greg: “In life, there are no sure bets, except that people like Greg can be counted on to rise to the occasion and make the world a better place in the lives of our older adults.”

Greg puts in 25 to 40 hours a month helping Marin’s older adults get nourishing food and taking them to medical appointments, the grocery store and important social engagements.

In our book, Greg is the very definition of a local hero.

To learn more about these and other volunteer opportunities at Whistlestop, contact: volunteer@ whistlestop.org or call 415-456-9067.

“

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

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We are seeking friendly and reliable volunteers who want to give back to their community.

DATE: Thursday, August 8, 2019 TIME: 3pm-4:00pm (drop-in) LOCATION: 930 Tamalpais Avenue

VOLUNTEER POSITIONS INCLUDE: CarePool Volunteer Drivers Meals on Wheels Delivery Drivers Jackson Café Lunch Servers & Cashiers General Office help and Parking Services Home Delivered Grocery Shoppers (in partnership with Covia) For more information contact: Laurie Vermont, Volunteer Program Phone: 415-456-9067 or Email: volunteer@ whistlestop.org

KQED Forum Broadcasts Live from Whistlestop! and long term care, ageism, isolation & loneliness, and transportation.

If you missed the live broadcast, you can listen here: https://www.kqed.org/ forum/2010101871579/forum-on-the-roadhow-to-make-aging-in-place-work https://www.kqed.org/ forum/2010101871583/forum-on-the-roadwither-retirement-why-more-seniors-areworking Thank you to the KQED staff for allowing us to host this memorable event!

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On June 11, Whistlestop hosted KQED radio for a live broadcast of Forum with Michael Krasny. Two expert panels discussed “Aging in Community” and “Working Past Retirement.” As panelists covered these important topics, callers and audience members shared their perspectives and experiences, bringing home the reality of these challenges and the importance of taking action at the community level up through policy. Experts used the same terminology that we have been using here at Whistlestop, covering the very same topics that we’re working to address here in our Marin community—social connection, affordable housing, access to health care

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MARIN COUNTY COMMISSION ON AGING MONTHLY MEETING WHEN: Thurs, Oct. 4

10am-12:30pm WHERE: Tiburon Town Hall TOPIC: Making Sense of

Transportation Taxes on the Ballot

SPEAKER:

Dianne Steinhauser of Transportation Authority of Marin

AGE-FRIENDLY CORTE MADERA (AFCM) INTERGENERATIONAL CENTER: RESOURCES FOR OLDER ADULTS AND THEIR LOVED ONES

FREE and Open to All WHEN: Wednesday, August 21, 2019, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm

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LOCATION: Corte Madera Community Center, 498 Tamalpais Drive, Corte Madera, CA

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Driving As We Age: Worried about your driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license renewal? Wondering if you should still be driving? Many people value driving as a mark of independence. The rules of the road, and your hearing, vision and reaction time have changed since you learned to drive. Learn how to tune up your driving skills and get helpful hints to pass the license renewal exam. This presentation by Jerrod Sieberg, Senior Driver Ombudsman, will provide valuable information and help you continue to maintain your driving privilege as long as you are safe to do so.

Ribbon cutting ceremony unveiling new refrigerator and freezers that will help provide more food to individuals with chronic illnesses. Pictured from left to right: Matt MacPhee, Whistlestop volunteer, Whit Raab, Norman Raab Foundation, Lorenzo Jones, president, San Rafael Chamber of Commerce, Erika Vaughn, Whistlestop Nourish, Manager Marv Zauderer, CEO of ExtraFood, Kate Colin, San Rafael City Council member, Ann Raab, Norman Raab Foundation and Joe Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hehir, CEO of Whistlestop.

Whistlestop Nourish(es) the Community

By Jennifer Golbus

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ince 2013, Whistlestop Nourish has delivered thousands of nutritious meals to chronically ill members of the community who are battling conditions such as MS, cancer and HIV. Clients receive three visits a week, providing them with up to seven healthy meals.

During those home visits, deliverers also provide much-needed human interaction.

Whistlestop Nourish is fortunate to have had ExtraFood as a partner since 2014. The nonprofit

food recovery organization is committed to providing Nourish with fresh meals. As a result of the partnership with ExtraFood, Nourish tripled the number of clients served, but additional attempts to grow the program were hindered by lack of space and inability to safely store larger quantities of food.

Thanks to the generous support of the Norman Raab Foundation and an anonymous donor, Nourish now has an expanded storage facility and a new industrial-size refrigerator and two freezers. With the additional storage space,

Nourish will be able to once again triple its current outreach, serving an additional 100 clients.

One in five people in Marin County worry about where their next meal is coming from, and people living with chronic medical conditions are often at higher risk of food insecurity. At Whistlestop, we believe that food is medicine, and Nourish is an expanding solution to help ensure that all in our community have the food they need.

For more information about Whistlestop Nourish services, please call (415) 456-9062 x176. For more information about ExtraFood, visit www.extrafood.org.

Eli Gelardin: In the company of heroes

By Kelly Krueger Thomas

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Eli Gelardin

(LTSS) that helps people live independently and safely in the community,” says Eli. “The goal is to empower our

Foundation for Independent Living Centers, was at the top of his list. Another hero was his P.E. coach at Del Mar middle school, Mr. Stevens. “He saw something in me at a very early age and taught me what it means to empower people.

He changed the trajectory of my life.”

Regardless of where one is in the spectrum of ability, Eli says we all have the potential within us to achieve greatness, to be heroic. “The resilience, grit and tenacity of the people I come into contact with is so empowering. I look forward to going to work every day.”

For more information on Marin Center for Independent Living, visit: www.marincil.org.

Are you ready for a Transition?

Change can be overwhelming, but as a Senior Real Estate Specialist I am here to help you make the move. From finding the adult community that matches your lifestyle to helping you get into a smaller more manageable home, I can assist you.

Contact me today!

1/8 FOR MIRJANA VILLERE/ MCQUIRE REAL ESTATE

THE REDWOODS 1/4 SQ

Schedule a Tour!

Contact: Cheri Drees 415.383.2741 x223

Misha Villere EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

SNF# 010000390 RCFE# 210102866

Senior Real Estate Specialist 415.505.3851• mvillere@mcguire.com DRE#02052811

AU G US T 2 019 WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS

li Gelardin has seen a lot of heroes in his time. In fact, they are all around him. Ask him about his staff of 13, the more than 35 volunteers, the countless supporters, and of course, his clients, and he’ll gladly tell you of their heroic qualities, from their tenacity and resilience to their sense of empowerment.

A native of Marin, Eli has been involved with the Marin Center for Independent Living (MCIL) in one form or another since 2003. Originally he was a service provider, helping clients with their social security benefits. He then served as the deputy director for Contra Costa Independent Living Center, leading them through a difficult and uncertain time. Since 2008, he has helped guide the MCIL as Executive Director, expanding its mission to include older residents aging into disabilities.

No two days are the same for Eli. He and his team at MCIL help people navigate the health system – providing person centered care coordination, hospital to home transition support, caregiving, assistive technology, home modifications, resource navigation – addressing all the social determinants of health: housing, social isolation, food & nutrition, etc.

“We have evolved into an organization that provides a menu of longterm services and supports

clients to thrive in the community.

I believe that all people have the fundamental right to happiness, community, love and humanity. Our best opportunity to achieve those fundamental rights is to live quality lives in our own homes surrounded by family, friends, and support.”

When it comes to naming heroes, Eli’s list is almost endless. His wife, who is the Executive Director of the state association, California

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Whistlestop

WAYS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

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

The Importance of Financial Caregiving

By Yvonne Roberts

during a medical emergency looks like. Trained as a stateedical emergencies licensed private fiduciary, are worrisome Vicki helps her clients take enough without practical steps to properly the added stress of not manage and protect their knowing how to handle financial information through a loved one’s financial a service that she calls “Ready affairs. Too many to Delegate.” Join Vicki for questions regarding an informative presentation bills, medical costs and Yvonne Roberts on financial caregiving at document locations arise, Whistlestop. often going unanswered or mishandled.

The presentation is Wednesday, Though money can be an uncomfortable August 28, 10-11:15 am. Kindly subject to discuss, having a financial register by calling 415-456-9062 x100. plan with someone you trust can Free estate planning binders will be bring clarity, peace of mind, and avoid available for attendees. unnecessary risk.

This presentation is sponsored by Financial caregiving means creating Valley Memorial Park Cemetery and a plan to share important information Funeral Home in Novato. with someone you trust in the event Need help with your estate that you are unable to provide documents?

Older adults may schedule instruction. However, a good financial free half hour appointments at plan requires more than disclosing Whistlestop with Legal Aid of Marin by information, it also designs a strategy calling Whistlestop’s Resource Office: for maintaining your privacy, only 415-459-6700. communicating necessary details at the appropriate time.

To learn more about making charitable gifts to Vicki Clarke has seen first-hand what Whistlestop, please contact Yvonne Roberts at turning over financial responsibility yroberts@whistlestop.org or 415-295-0578.

WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS AU G US T 2 019

M

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MAIL A DONATION

(Check or Credit Card) Mailing address: Whistlestop 930 Tamalpais Ave. San Rafael, CA 94901

SCHEDULE A RECURRING DONATION

Direct your bank to automatically transfer your donation or call 415.456.9062

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 Whistlestop 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 Serve or Cashier in the Jackson Café Shop and Deliver Groceries (in partnership with Covia) Teach Zumba Gold!

To learn more about volunteer opportunities contact: Email: volunteer@ whistlestop.org Phone: 415.456.9067