December 2023 PAFC News - Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast, Tech Buddy Updates, and More!

There's Still Time to Donate in 2023!

PAFC News and Views

December 2023

Thank you to our Mission Sponsor, Sonders Fort Collins! We appreciate your ongoing dedication to helping us problem-solve challenges older adults face as we work to strengthen our Larimer County communities.

Visit Sonders Fort Collins

We are thrilled to share our newest Mission Sponsor, UCHealth! The team at UCHealth is committed to helping PAFC cultivate communities where people of all ages thrive. THANK YOU UCHealth for your support.

Visit UCHealth Today

Fort Collins Residents - Looking for Tech Help?

Our Tech Buddies Team will be providing no-cost tech help at the Harmony Library on Wednesday, January 17th from 10am - 12pm. Registration is required, and opens on January 2nd. Let's get 2024 off to a tech-friendly start!

Click below to register, beginning January 2nd, and we hope to see you at the Harmony Library on January 17th!

What Are the Benefits of Volunteering?

In a world that often seems fast-paced and digitally connected, the value of community engagement has never been more important. Volunteering isn't just about giving back; it's a source of both physical and mental well-being. Physical activity involved in volunteering, whether organizing events or participating in local programs, contributes to improved cardiovascular health and increased mobility. The mental health benefits are equally significant, providing a sense of purpose and reducing stress.

On the social front, volunteering is truly the backbone of community building, creating a network of support that strengthens the social fabric. An often overlooked but powerful aspect is the opportunity for intergenerational connections. Regardless of age, everyone benefits from living in a closely-knit, supportive environment, and volunteering offers a unique platform for sharing wisdom across generations.

From an age-friendly perspective, volunteering allows older adults to share a lifetime of skills and wisdom acquired through years of experience. It's a flexible endeavor, accommodating various commitment levels and schedules/lifestyles. Whether weekly or on special occasions, volunteering provides an opportunity for individuals of all ages to make a meaningful contribution, emphasizing that the joy of giving knows no age limit. Embracing the power of community engagement enriches lives and contributes to the well-being of both individuals and the community as a whole.

As we move into 2024, commit to getting out there and volunteering in some way - whether it is with PAFC or another local organization. Find what makes you light up, and go for it!

Email us to learn more about volunteering with PAFC!

Get Ready to Celebrate YOU!

Mark your calendars, amazing PAFC volunteers! Join us Tuesday, February 20th - we'll be celebrating YOU and all of the incredible work you do!

What: Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast

When: Tuesday, February 20th from 8:00am to 10:00am

Where: Northside Aztlan Community Center (Eagle Room)

112 East Willow Street, Fort Collins

More information will be available soon!

A Message from our Newsletter Sponsor,

Andrea Chirich:

New Year's Resolutions

As 2023 comes to a close and we enter 2024 many of us consider resolutions we want to make for 2024. My personal resolution is to improve my work – life balance. In this business it is very easy, and fun, to simply work all the time! I am resolving to round out my time with more time for family, friends, and horses. If you make New Year’s Resolutions, what is yours? If one of those resolutions involves moving closer to family, retiring and having the ability to live wherever you want, living in a different climate, or changing your living situation so travel is easier to do, or any multitude of reasons, selling your current home may be on your 2024 list.

On average, we are staying longer in our homes than in decades past. Prior to 2008 we stayed in our homes on average 6 years. Since 2009 that number has been rising, with the average now at 10 years. A lot of life occurs in 10 years, and your current home may not fit the needs of your life now. That time span has also allowed for significant equity growth in our homes. Selling your current home and taking advantage of the equity you have accumulated with the

rise in home prices, can be a fantastic way to fuel your next lifestyle home.

The real estate market has been slow through the holidays, and appreciation has slowed to 3.5ish% year over year, which is all indicative of a return to a historically normal housing market.

However, the Fed, at this time, is planning to hold interest rates steady, and we are hearing rumors of potential interest rate decreases as inflation is brought under control. Those factors could bolster the real estate market and increase buyer demand. We could see a robust real estate market for 2024.

If you are considering whether a new home, location, etc., would work better for changes in your lifestyle, and you’d like a professional to chat with, let’s connect. I’d be happy to share

information so you have clarity and confidence in making the best decision for you.

Wishing you all the Happiest of Holidays and an abundant and joyful 2024 with your Resolutions realized!

Have a question for Andrea?

A New Year's Cheers!

As we embrace the dawn of 2024, let's take a moment to extend our warmest wishes to the unsung heroes of our communities—our older adult volunteers.

Throughout the past year, these remarkable individuals have been beacons of inspiration, dedicating their time and wisdom to make a positive impact in our local communities. Whether it's lending a hand on projects that help individuals thrive as they age, sharing invaluable experiences, or offering a listening ear, their contributions have woven threads of compassion that strengthen the fabric of our society.

To our cherished older adult volunteers, THANK YOU for the countless hours and unwavering spirit you've shared. May the coming year bring you joy, good health, and the fulfillment of your dreams. Here's to new memories, connections, and reasons to smile. Happy New Year—you are the heartbeat of our communities, and we are grateful for the light you continue to shine. May 2024 be filled with love, laughter, and the realization of your aspirations. Cheers to a new year and the continued brilliance of our older adult volunteers!

Got Tech Skills?

If you have even just a bit of tech experience and LIKE tackling tech challenges, WE WANT YOU to join our Tech Buddies Team!

PAFC's Tech Buddies program has helped over 100 residents in Larimer County, and we currently have a wait list of individuals needing our no-cost services. You can make a major difference in your community by joining our Tech Buddies team.

We provide FREE training, and ongoing support to help you make a difference in the lives of others.

BE A PART of this important movement and reach out today to learn more about how to become a PAFC Tech Buddy!

Our next training is January 5th via Zoom! Sign up today!

Email us today to become a Tech Buddy

www.PAFCLarimer.org

info@pafclarimer.org

Donate HERE!