By Linda M. Heistman
Those senior citizens among us have experience, knowledge, and stories. Most are mothers, fathers, aunts and uncles and have helped raise their own children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and children of friends.
Some of our seniors have served in wars or other military and community services. Some have survived cancer, disasters, and even tragedies.
Each individual has a unique story to tell—if only we’d take the time to listen.
It is very sad that in today’s culture, a lot of people forsake, disrespect or ignore the very folks of whom they should be seeking advice and interaction.
That is one reason it is so wonderful to live in the Town of Webb. Our community realizes the blessings of caring for our aging population, and we know that we have a need for them to be involved in our lives.
I have seen this caring spirit demonstrated by many people who have approached me on ways they could assist with our new Senior Activities Program.
Our program is free and open to independent senior citizens from Woodgate to Blue Mountain Lake.
We meet at Niccolls Church, 228 Crosby Blvd., Old Forge every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Lunch is generously provided by the Town of Webb Health Center Fund.
If a senior wants to come, but does not have a ride, we will try to arrange for one as long as we are called far enough in advance. Five days’ advanced notice is suggested, but at least 24 hours in advance would be appreciated.
The Commu-nity Transporta-tion Service has offered to help when they are able and we are grateful for that.
We do welcome people with special needs, as long as a caregiver accompanies them.
February 4 was our first day, and we had representatives from Woodgate, Thendara, Old Forge, Eagle Bay, and Inlet.
There were 28 present on the final roster which included 25 seniors, 10 of whom also served as volunteers!
All of the volunteers went well above and beyond my expectations and helped provide a sociable, fun and caring atmosphere.
There was much laughing and chatter as everyone interacted with each other.
We discussed the possibilities offered to us and the ways we could contribute to our community as well.
One fabulous example of this type of interaction was offered to us by the Town of Webb School, where we hope to interact with the younger generation through reading and adopt-a-grandparent programs, to name a few.
Community Bank representative Linda Rodriguez had brochures and other information and offered to come in the future to talk about financial matters.
Kate Lewis and Ron DeBree brought a very interesting display from the Historical Association. Kate’s enthusiasm and ideas for our program is greatly appreciated.
A few other ideas for future activities came from Jeff Livingstone who showed us some soap carvings and Star Livingstone who had some nice box garden displays.
Participants are also encouraged to share their own ideas of what the group will do.
Some of our immediate future activities include card making, dance, card games, word games and making apple sauce.
Other activities could include exercises, crosswords, watching and discussing old movies, yoga, computer demonstrations, and Scrabble as well as other board games.
We have a Facebook page: YOUR Activities 4 Senior Citizens. We have posted a wish list along with our contact information. Please take this opportunity to help our program if there is something you are able to contribute.
You may also contact me directly by emailing me at activitiescoordinator4seniors@yahoo.com.
As the senior activity program coordinator, I am proud to live in this remarkable community and am extremely honored to be serving our seniors.