Dear Seniors,
Fall has arrived and is in full swing! We welcomed the season with Mayor Bowser’s 37th Annual Centenarian Salute, where we had the privilege of honoring over 40 of the District’s Centenarians. Describing this celebration as amazing would be an understatement – it was a remarkable showcase of our #DCValues in their finest expression.
This year’s Centenarian Salute was our first in-person event since the COVID-19 pandemic and having the opportunity to safely host this anticipated luncheon in-person was truly a treat. We learned so much from our Centenarians, gaining invaluable wisdom, insight, and the key secrets to making it to age 100 and beyond. Being able to share stories with our oldest residents about their contributions to the District and all around the world was truly inspiring. Many of them spoke of how they have lived through historic events such as the Civil Rights movement, World War II, the Cold War, and even being able to work for the CIA upon its inception in 1947. The moments shared all gave me such joy and insight that I will cherish forever.
September is also Healthy Aging Month, which came right at the time of us celebrating National Centenarian Day, and I have to say, our Centenarians are aging quite well! I asked many of our honorees what their secret was to make it to 100. Many replied with “Have fun” or “Drink your water” but some Centenarians are still active daily. Centenarian Stanley Johnson (104 years old), shared with me that he still does push-ups every day. Stanley’s commitment to remaining active was exactly what I needed to hear to motivate and encourage all of us as we prepare for Active Aging Week, which is the first week of October. And while the International Council of Active Aging has been highlighting this weeklong campaign for more than 20 years, this is something DACL encourages all year long!
Active Aging Week, which took place October 2 – 8,2023, is aimed at assisting the aging community to get involved in wellness, exercise, and activities that help encourage wellness as a goal for your lifetime. Seniors, I encourage you to join us at one of our seven wellness centers for a class or activity. I challenge you to not only join us during the first week of October for Active Aging Week but any time of the year! If you have any questions about how to get involved at one of our wellness centers, feel free to connect with us by calling 202-724-5626. I look forward to seeing you get active this fall!
In Service,
Charon P.W. Hines
DACL Recognizes FY 24 Grant Recipients for the DACL Lead Agency Grant Program
Director Hines poses with the NEW Lead Agency, DACL, for Ward 1 in partnership with East River Family Strengthening Collaborative (ERFSC).
DACL proudly recognizes the recipients of the FY24 Lead Agency Grant program:
- Ward 1: DACL, in partnership with East River Family Strengthening Collaborative – The mission of East River Family Strengthening Collaborative, Inc. (ERFSC) is to empower families, youth, seniors, and communities to become more self-sufficient through integrated and collaborative community-based services utilizing evidence-based practices that are family-focused and person-centered. DACL will be the lead agency for Ward 1 senior residents and will work in partnership with ERFSC. To learn more, visit erfsc.org.
- Ward 2 & 3: Iona Senior Services – Iona supports individuals navigating the challenges of aging by providing education, advocacy, and community-based services that promote well-being. For more information, visit iona.org.
- Ward 4: Genevieve N. Johnson Senior Day Care Program – Also known as GNJ, this program offers adult care with a focus on creating joyful moments and enhancing seniors’ lives. To learn more, visit gnjseniordaycare.com.
- Ward 5 & 6: Seabury Resources for Aging – Seabury offers programs and comprehensive support for DC’s older adults, addressing their essential needs and aiding families in making crucial decisions about their future. For more information, visit seaburyresources.org.
- Ward 7 & 8: East River Family Strengthening Collaborative – ERFSC empowers families, youth, seniors, and communities to become self-sufficient through integrated, community-based services. Learn more at erfsc.org
