CEO Corner: June 2023
Age doesn’t limit impact — connection expands it. Across Tampa Bay, Seniors in Service is bringing generations together in ways that challenge stereotypes and create meaningful relationships. When people of different ages connect, they share wisdom, solve problems, and build bonds that benefit everyone involved. This is what happens when we stop separating by age and start showing up for one another.
A Message From Robin Ingles
One of the most inaccurate stereotypes about seniors is that their best work is behind them. We know this because of the hundreds of senior volunteers we see positively impacting our community daily!
Seniors need what we all need: love and work, a sense of connection, meaningful bonds, and a reason to get up in the morning.
But for so many decades, seniors have been consigned to a world that’s both isolated and cut off from that sense of purpose. Many feel invisible. Society has consciously and systematically separated people by age, resulting in relatively little contact between individuals. It’s time to make a change!
At Seniors in Service, multiple generations work together on our staff and as volunteers in our community. We know that bringing generations together is mutually beneficial and creates a greater sense of joy. That’s why we believe it’s so important to develop opportunities for senior generations and let old, young, and all the people in the middle mix in the context of daily life.
Rachel, one of our college-aged Health Buddies volunteers, learned her client Agnes was struggling to eat solid foods while she waited to receive new dentures. Rachel recently had braces and remembered how her teeth used to ache. Rachel shared with Agnes how her mom blended her proteins, like chicken, with barbecue sauce to make it “sloppy joe” style. Agnes gave it a try and was thrilled to enjoy solid foods again. Now she’s excited to cook!
Even though Rachel had not personally dealt with this common generational issue, she was still able to draw on a relevant experience. Often, you might not think someone from a different generation can relate to you or understand you, but we’re here to tell you they can.
I encourage you to break down age-related barriers in your own life and seek out opportunities to engage with people from different generations. Join us at the Bridging Generations Breakfast on September 15, 2023, at Palma Ceia Country Club from 7:30-9 a.m. to honor all the volunteers who connect generations for the benefit of Tampa Bay.
Turn Vision Into Action
Our CEO’s message highlights how volunteers transform lives every day. You can be part of the story — giving your time, talent, or resources to support seniors and children in Tampa Bay.
Here To Help
