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Community Senior Services "ReAL Connections" (Jul 29, 2010)
Community Senior Services "ReAL Connections"
What is ReAL Connections?
"ReAL" stands for Resources for Ageless Living, and "ReAL Connections" is the tentative name for an exciting new program that Community Senior Services is exploring for development. The concept is based on a successful program that started in Boston* eight years ago and now is being adapted by communities across the country. The basic idea is that adults in our community can--and want--to stay here and enjoy vibrant lives by connecting with neighbors and accessing trusted resources and vetted services with one phone call.Who is Community Senior Services?
Community Senior Services is a non-profit organization that has been serving the greater Inland and San Gabriel Valleys for 35 years. Our mission is to "connect people, information, resources and communities," which we do currently through a range of existing programs such as our HelpLine, Senior Companion program, transportation assistance, and RSVP volunteer and caregiver support programs, among others. CSS is acting as a catalyst for ReAL Connections and would be the umbrella under which various neighborhoods and communities could organize locally-driven groups.What communities are being targeted to start ReAL Connections program?
Initially we are exploring interest levels in the communities of Alta Loma, Claremont, La Verne, Glendora, Pomona, San Dimas and Upland. We may start in just some of these, and over time, we may expand into additional communities. Since this is a grassroots, neighbor-oriented program, it will depend on where there is "ReAL" interest!Who can participate?
ReAL Connections membership is being designed for people who are 50+, although anyone in the community is welcome to participate as a volunteer or ReAL leader.What kind of services would ReAL Connections provide?
From what we have seen in other communities that have started similar programs, we would offer a mix of services that a majority of members would find useful. These may vary by age group. For example you may be:* Fully-employed at 55 and looking for a "personal assistant" to help you accomplish more (e.g., find a plumber, occasional pet-sitting, arrange a ride to the airport)
* Nearly retired at 65 and seeking intellectual stimulation and community engagement (e.g., bridge partners, volunteer opportunities, computer or tech support, theatre outings)
* Alone at 85 trying to find quality services that will help you stay active and independent (e.g., rides to the doctor, home maintenance, grocery shopping)
You also may be concerned about not being available when a loved one needs you (e.g., to accompany your mother to the doctor or help with housecleaning). ReAL Connections can be there to offer peace of mind and lend a helping hand when you cannot.Our intention is to better utilize existing community resources wherever possible, so we envision selectively partnering with credible organizations, as well as negotiating discounts and making referrals to proven vendors that our members trust. And we would follow-up with you every time you access services to ensure you are satisfied. In addition, ReAL Connections would provide social activities and opportunities for meaningful volunteerism--neighbors helping neighbors.
How can someone who's interested get involved?
Do you want to help make ReAL Connections a reality? Let us know! We are looking for neighborhood volunteers and for people to be involved in the leadership.The most immediate way to help is go to the following link to complete a confidential needs/interest survey: www.surveymonkey.com/s/real
You also can request and complete the ReAL Connections survey on paper. We are mailing the survey to many local residents, as well as distributing them through community groups. However, if you don't receive one, just call us at 909.621.9900 and we will send one to you. Return it in the confidential, postage-paid envelope.
If you are interested in membership and would like us to keep you informed as ReAL Connections gets ready to launch, we would be happy to add you to our interest list. Just call 909.621.9900 or email Abby at cssabby@linkline.com, or complete the interest information at the end of the survey.
Why complete the ReAL Connections survey?
Every individual--and community--is different. We want ReAL Connections to reflect the needs, wants and desires of people who live in the communities we work with. The only way to design a program that you would want to be part of is to ask you what services have value to you. By participating in the survey or in small focus groups that we'll be conducting, you help to shape the best mix of programs and services we can offer.
TO LEARN MORE: Contact Floy Biggs, CEO of Community Senior Services at 909.621.9900 or cssfloy@linkline.com.Visit www.beaconhillvillage.org or www.avenidasvillage.org for more information about the original program concept.
