Commit to Connect Updates | |
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New from Commit to Connect: Communities of Interest
This year Commit to Connect (CTC) will launch a series of Communities of Interest (COI) to allow people who share an interest in a common topic to exchange information, obtain answers to help them address challenging situations and improve their understanding of various subjects.
The first COI will introduce and demonstrate the functions of the Nationwide Network of Champions, also known as the CTC “Virtual Hub.” Members of this COI will receive an overview of the portal and learn how they can use the hub to engage with peers from across the country to promote social engagement and connection. Questions? Contact info@committoconnect.org.
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Highlights from the CTC Virtual Hub
As the CTC Virtual Hub continues to grow, posts are increasingly sparking fruitful conversations among members. The CTC team encourages all members to share ideas and expertise on the Hub. Consider posing a question to the community about a topic you are interested in or replying to the posts that are already active! Not sure where to start? Here are two ongoing discussions that you can join: Best Ways to Engage Older Adults: Thoughts or Advice? or Sustainability of Efforts. Not comfortable making a post? Reach out to info@committoconnect.org for assistance.
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Meet the Champions
We’re proud to highlight a Commit to Connect Champion in this bi-monthly spotlight. Meet Elly Katz, Executive Director of Sages & Seekers, based in Los Angeles, CA. Sages & Seekers runs an eight-week intergenerational program comprised of teenagers and older adults that occurs both online and in person. The program develops empathy, combats social isolation and dissolves age-related segregation within communities. Learn more about the critical programming Elly offers her community and potential opportunities for your community by reaching out on the Nationwide Network of Champions or by visiting the Sages & Seekers website.
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Recent Research and Resources | |
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A new report from the Foundation for Social Connection describes the opportunities to advance social connection and fill gaps in understanding while addressing social isolation and loneliness in the education sector. There will be a public comment period open for 60 days for readers to provide their input and feedback on the report.
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The Washington Post published an article highlighting a study conducted by John’s Hopkins researchers that focuses on isolated older adults and an increased risk of developing dementia.
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A recent article published by JAMA outlines a systematic review of studies looking at interventions that reduce social isolation and loneliness in older adults. The review found that animal therapy and technology interventions had the largest effect sizes in reducing loneliness. However, the authors note that more high-quality studies are needed going forward.
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With the goal of helping older adults and people with disabilities stay healthy, the U.S. Administration for Community Living has funded USAging to launch the Aging and Disability Vaccination Collaborative to support local activities and promotion that encourage vaccination against COVID-19 and the flu. Local organizations, including Area Agencies on Aging, Aging and Disability Resource Centers, tribal aging programs, Centers for Independent Living and a broad range of aging and disability organizations, can apply to receive funding at www.usaging.org/advc. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. USAging administers Commit to Connect through a cooperative agreement from the U.S. Administration for Community Living.
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Help Spread the Word About Commit to Connect! | |
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Become a Commit to Connect Champion by joining the Nationwide Network of Champions. Tell your story and join the conversation!
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Invite your friends and colleagues to join you as a Commit to Connect Champion!
- Coming Soon: Join a Community of Interest or Peer Exchange! Stay tuned for details.
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Upcoming Events and Deadlines | |
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Conference: On Aging (American Society on Aging, March 27-30, 2023, Atlanta, GA)
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Conference: Age+Action Conference (National Council on Aging, June 12-13, 2023, Arlington, VA and June 20-21, Virtual)
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Funding for this initiative was made possible by contract no. HHSP233201500088I from ACL. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. | | | | |
