May is Older Americans Month. This year’s theme, "Powered by Connection" focuses on the profound impact that meaningful connections have on the well-being and health of older adults. Each week this month, members and volunteers share how their involvement with NNV has powered connections for them.

-----

Creating an Inclusive Village
By Merilee Janssen

A vibrant neighborhood is a diverse place. Across the street and down the block, we encounter people living lives different from our own, a rich array of backgrounds and beliefs, perspectives and persuasions. Together with our neighbors we celebrate what we have in common, and what makes each of us distinct. The more inclusive the neighborhood – the more we welcome the “other” into our lives – the greater the gift diversity provides us all.

At a stage of life when it's all-too-easy to become socially isolated, NNV's mission to increase and deepen our neighborly connections was what drew me to volunteering here in the first place. I don’t have enough fingers to count my Village friends who have enriched my life, from members whom I have helped navigate the complexities and frequent challenges of aging, to my board and working group colleagues from whom I have learned so much. All have made me a better, more empathic person as I transition into elderhood myself.  

But nothing has enriched or expanded my life more than NNV’s efforts to become a more inclusive Village. Together with others on our Diversity & Inclusion Working Group, I have had the pleasure of getting to know Black neighbors who have been up to now a small minority of NNV’s community. We have shared lunches and dinners at Blue 44; enjoyed viewing and discussing some of our Virtual Speakers who focused on racial issues at “watch parties”; met up for coffee and at NNV social events; and discussed issues related to the history of racism in our country and closer to home.  

With the help of these neighbors and friends, my notion of neighborhood and community has evolved into something more inclusive, welcoming, and hospitable. As the old proverb goes, “nobody is as smart as everybody.” The more we listen to the differing life experiences and perspectives of others, the wiser we all become. I have been made not only “smarter,” but also kinder, braver, more compassionate and grateful via my deepening relationships with my new friends. 

-----

This is our final post for Older Americans Month 2024. Thank you to all the members and volunteers who shared their stories of meaningful connections made through the village!