September 2025 News and Views




Thanks and gratitude to our Mission Sponsors

We want to extend our deepest gratitude to our Mission Sponsor, UCHealth, for their unwavering support. The UCHealth team continues to champion PAFC’s mission of cultivating communities where people of ALL ages can flourish. With their partnership, we can ensure that older adults in Larimer County have the resources they need to THRIVE in 2025 and beyond.

The Gallery at Fort Collins is our new Mission Sponsor and our Newsletter Sponsor! The Gallery is deeply committed to fostering a thriving and connected community for older adults - just like we are.


Their sponsorship helps us continue providing meaningful programs, services, and resources that enrich lives and promote independence for older adults. Thank you, The Gallery at Fort Collins, for your incredible support!

       The Power of Community: Why It Matters More Than Ever


In every stage of life, community plays a vital role in shaping who we are, how we thrive, and the connections that sustain us. A strong community provides more than companionship. It offers a sense of belonging, shared purpose, and mutual support that enriches daily living.


Belonging and Connection

At its core, community is about belonging. Being surrounded by people who understand your values, share your experiences, and celebrate your milestones creates a foundation of trust and comfort. These connections reduce loneliness, promote emotional well-being, and provide the assurance that no one has to face life alone.


Growth Through Shared Experiences

Communities foster growth by offering opportunities to learn, participate, and contribute. Whether it’s sharing a meal, attending an event, or volunteering together, these collective experiences strengthen bonds and build resilience. They also encourage individuals to bring their unique talents forward, enriching the whole group.


Support in Times of Change

Life is full of transitions, and community provides an anchor during uncertain times. From celebrating joyful moments to navigating challenges, having a network of caring individuals ensures that support is always within reach. It’s in these moments that the true value of community shines brightest.


Community as a Lifestyle

More than a place, community is a way of life. It means engaging in meaningful relationships, finding joy in everyday interactions, and experiencing the warmth of connection. A thriving community inspires individuals to live fully and with purpose.


At The Gallery Fort Collins, community is at the heart of everything we do. Residents are welcomed into an environment that blends vibrant social opportunities with personalized comfort. From engaging events and thoughtfully designed spaces to a team that cares deeply about each individual, The Gallery is more than a residence. It’s a place to belong.

Top photo L to R: Dana Schriver, Cheryl Noble, Lorye McLeod, Trish Housely

Bottom photo: Dana, Cheryl & Lorye

Fun-Filled and Thrilling Duck Race!


It was a beautiful day in early September for the FC Rotary Duck Race, a fundraising event benefiting local nonprofits. Our Executive Director, Lorye McLeod, board member Kim Hayes, and devoted PAFCer Karrie Grama-Hatfield were all finalists in the final heat of the event. There were over 3,000 adopted ducks chasing the top prizes and in the end, Karrie was victorious in winning 3rd place which netted a $1,000 prize!


We are deeply grateful to all of our donors! PAFC was one of the leading nonprofits to raise the most money. We raised $1,950 thanks to YOU!


Watch the video of the exciting final heat and see Karrie's duck breeze across the finish line for 3rd place! Congratulations Karrie!

 
 

September's Lunch and Learn, "Paying for Home Care May Not Cost You a Dime," was packed with valuable information. Here is the recording if you missed it.


Mark your calendars for our next Lunch & Learn

Wednesday, November 12th, Noon - 1:00

"Stand Tall From Falls"

Presented by Kathy Schlepp, MPH

UCHealth Injury Prevention Program Manager


Colorado Gives Day is Tuesday, December 9th

Colorado Gives Day is coming up


  • Colorado Gives Day is Tuesday, December 9.
  • Early giving begins November 1.
  • Colorado Gives Day is the biggest 24-hour giving movement in the state and one of the most successful giving days in the nation.
  • In 2024, more than $54 million was raised for Colorado Gives Day to support Colorado nonprofits.
  • Start now for your end-of-year giving.
  • Ask us how you can use your RMD as a donation to PAFC.




 

September's Graceful Aging Blog

Asking for Help

by Lynn Kloss

I grew up in the 1950s and 1960s. My father was a first generation American whose parents migrated from Germany at the turn of the twentieth century. He ran the family business, which was ornamental ironworks. My mother was a housewife and took that role very seriously. They were hardworking and hard-headed. When my father died of cancer at age 45, my mother was left with three children ages 20, 17, and 7 (me). Aside from support from family members (my mother was one of 8 children – 7 living at the time of her husband’s death), she never seemed to welcome assistance. She went back to school and by the time I was 11, she was working full time as a nurse. She saw her role as working to serve other people – not needing help herself. She learned to manage many things on her own. I matured and tried to follow her example of self-containment.

Continue reading here




www.PAFCLarimer.org



970-310-4900