The mission of Council on Aging of Volusia County is to enrich the lives of our most vulnerable elderly citizens by providing needed services that enable them to remain safely, comfortably, and with dignity in their own homes. | |
|
Dear Friends and Supporters of COA,
As we are nearing our 60th (diamond) anniversary, we are excited to announce the relaunch of our newsletter, now called COA’s Diamond Connection. This reimagined bi-monthly publication reflects our continued commitment to connecting, celebrating, and empowering the incredible individuals we serve. Just as a diamond shines brighter over time, COA’s Diamond Connection will highlight the brilliance, resilience, and wisdom of Volusia’s elderly population.
Through this new platform, we aim to keep you informed, engaged, and inspired by sharing stories of upcoming events, helpful resources, and much more. Whether it's celebrating milestones, providing insightful tips, or offering support, COA’s Diamond Connection will serve as a beacon of positivity and connection for everyone involved in our organization.
We are grateful for the ongoing support from each of you, and we look forward to using this space to strengthen the bonds that make our community truly special.
Stay tuned for our upcoming editions, and as always, thank you for being a part of our journey!
Warm regards,
Eveline Kraljic and Terri Karol
Co-Executive Directors
| |
New Smyrna Beach Dining Site & Senior Center
AND
Port Orange Dining Site
Our friend Ken Reed truly lit up the room, bringing an infectious energy that had everyone dancing and singing along to the delightful holiday music! The air was filled with laughter and joy as seniors from all walks of life came together, their hearts brimming with happiness and camaraderie. It was a beautiful reminder of the power of connection and community spirit, showcasing just how vital these moments are for the well-being and engagement of our cherished seniors. At COA, we are committed to fostering such joyful experiences and creating lasting memories for our seniors in Volusia County. We are immensely grateful for the community support that makes these events possible and invite families and potential donors to join us in this wonderful journey of connection and celebration!
| |
Ormond Beach
Dining Site & Senior Center
Tom Gromball, a local piano virtuoso, teamed up with his jolly, white-bearded companion Santa and his cheerful Elf to create a holiday celebration that was nothing short of magical! The laughter, music, and festive spirit they brought to the event lit up the room and the radiant smiles on the faces of our beloved seniors spoke volumes of joy. This delightful collaboration not only entertaining but also warmed hearts, showcasing COA's unwavering commitment to fostering a joyful environment for our seniors. It’s moments like these, where local talent and festive characters come together, that remind us of the importance of community and connection during the holidays!
| | | |
|
Every month our SHINE volunteers present FREE virtual presentations to help older adults understand their Medicare benefits.
After registering for the Zoom meetings listed below, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Medicare Part D
Designed to provide an overview of how Medicare Drug coverage works.
Tuesday, January 28, 2025
10:00 AM
| |
Thanks to our Community Partners at Duke Energy for providing "Files of Life" to our clients. They are created by a non-profit organization promoting a life-saving program with your latest medical information – including allergies, medications, contact persons and more – all in one safe place. Call us if you would like a copy 386.253.4700 x225. | |
|
NEW RESPITE CARE PROGRAM SITE IN DEBARY!
We are so happy to announce the new location of our Respite Care Program in DeBary on Fridays from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
| |
Who's that behind
the volunteer cape?
It's none other than our community's very own superhero, Thom Connors! Thom is one of our many incredible volunteers who brings joy and nourishment to seniors via our Meals on Wheels program at the Daytona Beach Dining Site. Not only does he deliver meals on a regular route each week, but he also jumps in to pack meals, lends a hand with woodworking for puzzle mounting, assembles office furniture, and so much more! We are truly lucky to have Thom's unwavering commitment and enthusiasm as part of our team, helping us to fulfill our mission to support vulnerable seniors. After all, it takes a village—or at least a super volunteer—to keep our community thriving! If you're inspired by Thom's dedication, why not join us in making a difference? Whether it's through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, every little bit helps us create a stronger, more caring community for our seniors!
To find out how to become a volunteer, contact Doreen Willett, our Community Engagement Liaison, at 386-253-4700 x 239 or you can click the link below to download our volunteer enrollment packet to start the process!
| | |
Did you know that COA has taken the joy of pet care to a whole new level with our delightful Pet Meals on Wheels program? That’s right! We’re serving up smiles and tail wags by ensuring seniors and their furry companions are well-fed and happy! It’s a purr-fectly heartwarming service that brings a sprinkle of joy to both pets and their humans. If you’re ready to unleash your enthusiasm and find out how you can help spread this love, don’t hesitate to give Cheryl Piatt a call at 386-253-4700 x 253. Let’s come together as a community to make a paw-sitive impact in the lives of our seniors and their beloved pets! 🐾❤️ | |
Prepare to Care Virtual Presentation | |
Did you miss the Caregiver Coalition's virtual workshop last month? We have you covered! Prepare to Care: A Guide for Both New and Experienced Caregivers covered information that's valuable and informative to caregivers of all levels. Watch the recorded session to hear from AARP and ElderSource about the best practices of caregiving, the ins and outs of family caregiving, and the resources that are available to caregivers in Northeast Florida.
Press play on the video below to watch the recorded session
| |
|
Client Supply Closet Needs
We are in need of some items for our Client Supply Closet. Can you help?
· Incontinence undergarments (both men and women, all sizes)
· Waterproof pads for beds and furniture
· Ensure/Boost nutritional drinks (all flavors)
· Disposable, personal hygiene wipes
If you can help to provide these necessities for our clients, please call our Referral Coordinator, Shawn Klee, at 386-253-4700 x225.
| |
|
As we turn the page on another year, we are overflowing with gratitude for your unwavering support and involvement in our community. You help us sprinkle joy and laughter into the lives of our beloved seniors, making every day feel like a celebration! Let’s continue to make meaningful connections and create memories together, because with your help, we can truly make this year a "sensational" one! Here’s to a prosperous New Year filled with health, happiness, and the warmth of community – let’s make it a year to remember!
| |
|
We are super excited about our upcoming FREE
"Be Kind" workshops at the following locations:
February 10, 2025 - 9:30 a.m. - COA Deltona Senior Center
The Center at Deltona - 1640 Martin Luther King Blvd.
February 11, 2025 - 10:30 a.m.- COA Ormond Beach Dining Site
351 Andrews St.
February 24, 2025 - 10:00 a.m. - COA Daytona Beach Dining Site
308 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd.
February 25, 2025 - 10:30 a.m. - COA Orange City Dining Site & Senior Center Wava Hall - 200 N. Holly Ave.
February 28, 2025 - 10:30 a.m. - COA DeLand Dining Site
1101 East Plymouth Ave.
All materials will be provided to create two signs on foam board. One is meant to be kept for yourself and the other is meant to be given away as a gift.
For more information on attending a workshop, please contact
Gwen Donnelly, at 386-253-4700 x209.
| |
|
Looking ahead, we reflect on the increasing challenges of our local seniors. At Council on Aging of Volusia County, our mission is to enrich the lives of our most vulnerable elderly citizens by providing needed services that enable them to remain safely, comfortably, and with dignity in their own homes. Today, we ask for your support in making a real difference in the lives of these cherished individuals.
For nearly 60 years, we have worked tirelessly to provide essential services—meals, personal care, and social activities—that combat loneliness and promote well-being for our older neighbors. But there is still much to be done. Many of our senior citizens are facing financial hardships, isolation, and limited access to basic resources. With your generous donation, we can continue to deliver these vital services and expand our outreach to those who need it most.
If you want to make a difference in the lives of seniors in Volusia County, we invite you to be a part of our mission. Your donation, no matter the size, will directly impact the lives of seniors in our community. Your support can make all the difference in ensuring that no senior is left behind.
YOU can make a difference today! Click the link below to donate today or send a check made payable to "Council on Aging of Volusia County. Inc." and mail it to 420 Fentress Blvd., Daytona Beach, FL 32114. Thank you.
| If you know someone who can benefit from this important information from NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), please share this link https://rb.gy/9uen7x with them. | |
Administrative Offices:
Council on Aging of Volusia County, Inc.
420 Fentress Blvd.
Daytona Beach, FL 32114-1208
386-253-4700
| |
A United Way Agency
Visit our website at www.coavolusia.org
COA (EIN: 59-1160221) is recognized as a tax-exempt charity by the IRS under Section 501(c)(3). A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 1-800-HELP-FLA OR ONLINE AT www.FloridaConsumerHelp.com. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. REGISTRATION # CH1960
| | | | |
