In tough times, communities find strength in people—and people find strength in their communities. In the past year, we’ve seen this time and again in our service area as friends, neighbors, and businesses have found new ways to support each other.
In our community, older adults are a key source of this strength. Through their experiences, successes, and difficulties, they have built resilience that helps them to face new challenges. When communities tap into this, they become stronger too.
Each May, the Administration for Community Living leads the celebration of Older Americans Month (OAM). This year’s theme is Communities of Strength, recognizing the important role older adults play in fostering the connection and engagement that build strong, resilient communities.
Strength is built and shown not only by bold acts, but also small ones of day-to-day life—a conversation shared with a friend, working in the garden, trying a new recipe, or taking time for a cup of tea on a busy day. And when we share these activities with others—even virtually or by telling about the experience later—we help them build resilience too.
This year, JABA will celebrate OAM by encouraging community members to share their experiences on our Community Forum & Bulletin Board. Is there someone special in your life who has shown strength and resilience? How have YOU remained resilient during challenging times? Are there events, inspiring quotes, photos, resources, that you think might help support others? Please share!
Together, we can find strength—and create a stronger future.
Best wishes,
Marta M. Keane
Chief Executive Officer