Learn more about Dining Centers and Luncheon Clubs and find menus, guidelines, contact information, and a location near you at www.fchcc.org/community/seniordiningcenters.htm.

1. This June 15, wear something purple to show your support on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
2. Tell people about the importance of reporting suspected situations of elder abuse, neglect, or self-neglect to Elder Protective Services of FCHCC at 413-773-5555
   or 978-544-2259.
3. Learn more about the signs of elder abuse, neglect, and self-neglect by reading the chart below or visiting www.fchcc.org/other/protectiveservices.htm.

We are again partnering with the Alzheimer's Association to offer family caregivers and loved ones of those with dementia another free, educational opportunity.

At "Conversations about Dementia," presenter Melissa Grenier, LCSW, will hold a discussion about the ways we can have honest and caring conversations with family members about some of the most difficult topics when you are caring for someone with memory problems: the importance of going to the doctor for a diagnosis or follow-up, concerns about driving and making legal and financial plans for the future. You'll also hear from actual family caregivers about these challenging issues via video as well as recommendations for what to do next.

Pre-registration is required due to limited seating. To pre-register, call the Alzheimer's Association. This program is not open to professional caregivers.

Caregiver respite may be available. Contact Laurie Deskavich at [email protected] or 413-773-5555 x2211 or 978-544-2259 x2211 for more information.

Read more about caregiver program and support options at FCHCC by visiting www.fchcc.org/caregivers/index.htm.

Usually it's easiest to talk to someone who you know is there to listen. Volunteers from the Long Term Care Ombudsman program at Franklin County Home Care fill that role for many nursing home and rest home residents. By hearing their concerns, advocating for their rights, and helping to resolve their complaints, Ombudsman volunteers ensure quality of life for the residents of the sites they visit weekly.

Good friends and neighbors often make great Ombudsman volunteers. If you think you'd make a good Ombudsman, consider attending the next free volunteer training this month. Contact program director, Trevor Boeding, to get started.

For more information about the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, visit www.fchcc.org/other/nursinghomeombuds.htm.

Bringing together LGBTIQA (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, questioning, and allies) individuals of all ages and their families and friends to share a meal and socialize also gives everyone the chance learn from one another. 

The gathering is a community event of celebration and education. The goals of bringing youth and adults together are to share their experiences of being an LGBTIQA person, express how that experience is different now than in the past and vice versa, ask one another questions, and spend time together.

The event is cosponsored by FCHCC, Community Action, and GCC. Thanks go to Buckley Healthcare Center and Joe and Anna Viadero for their underwriting support.

Please RSVP to the above address by June 20.

Read more about quarterly LGBTIQA socials and find resources at www.fchcc.org/resourceslinks/LGBTIQA-Socials.html.

If you think that volunteering with Meals on Wheels could be the meaningful work that you've been looking for, now is the time to act. Volunteer drivers are currently needed in towns across Franklin County. In exchange for their time, drivers receive a stipend and mileage reimbursement. If you have transportation and a couple of hours to deliver noontime meals, give us a call at 413-773-5555 or 978-544-2259. You can make a difference.

Read more about the impact of the Meals on Wheels program at www.fchcc.org/homesupport/mealsonwheels.htm.